Color Theory: Blue and White
The combination of blue and white is a tale as old as time in the design world. Here, we take a look at some of its many guises, proving that its reach extends far beyond a mise-en-scène of chinoiserie and delftware.
It’s All Greek
Everything about Greece basks in the glow of blue and white: the national flag, the architecture, even the landmarks—from Mykonos’ windmills to Santorini’s cupolas. For some Balkan bliss of your own, look to soothing ceramics, rustic linens and mythical embroidery.
F&M Ballarin Acquamarina Hand-Blown Murano Glass Tumblers (Set of 6)
£375
Anut Cairo Cosmic Hand-Embroidered Linen Rectangular Tablecloth (118in/3m)
£633
Molecot Mallorca Porcelain Dinner Plates – 10in/26cm (Set of 4)
£410
Green Wolf Lighting by Solange Azagury-Partridge Cloud Hand-Blown Murano Glass Portable Table Light
£560
Saved NY Constellation Cashmere King-Size Bedspread
£4,030
Gregory Parkinson Nighttime Array Block-Printed Cotton Napkins (Set of 6)
£220
Pottery & Poetry Hand-Glazed Porcelain Pasta Plates – 10in/26cm (Set of 4)
£240
Casarialto Fishtail Hand-Blown Murano Glass Water Jug
£230
Objet Luxe Octopus Silver-Plated and Shell Fruit Bowl
£2,655
Oeuvres Sensibles Supper Hand-Embroidered Linen Table Runner (98.5in/2.5m)
£585
Artel Frutti di Mare Hand-Engraved Crystal Tall Tumblers – 13.5oz/400ml (Set of 6)
£640
Casa Adams European Lobster Hand-Painted Porcelain Serving Platter
£450
Los Encajeros Granada Embroidered Linen Placemats (Set of 4)
£400
Klein’s New Blue
French artist Yves Klein tapped into the mid-century embrace of blue by adding a new pantone to the colour wheel: International Klein Blue, a pure shade of ultramarine featured in his Anthropométries series, among others. Temper the lively hue at home with soft, abstract shapes.
Lobmeyr Neo Enamel Hand-Painted Crystal Tumbler
£148
Yali Glass Fiori Uovo Hand-Blown Murano Glass Vase (10.5in/27cm)
£1,350
La Gallina Matta Shells Embroidered Linen Napkins (Set of 4)
£120
Giobagnara x Poltrona Frau Leather, Maple and Walnut Rackets with Ball
£840
Carlo Moretti Bora Hand-Blown Murano Glass Tumbler (15oz/440ml)
£116
The Elder Statesman Hot-Dye Cashmere Cushion (19.5in/50cm)
£1,455
Dye Happy
Of all ancient practices, tie-dye is one of the highest forms of textile expression. Perhaps the most notable interpretation is Japan’s shibori, where natural indigo dye is applied onto white cotton to create vibrant results. Incorporate it with lavish linens true to the classic color pairing.