Toile designs might remind you of period dramas, but this traditional pattern is making a comeback in 2024 and brands are recreating beautiful versions of this old-fashioned print. Everywhere you look, you see repeated patterns of toile on wallpaper, rugs, and even duvets, showcasing rich designs with a prominent attention to detail.
So what exactly is toile? Well, toile is a French word meaning ‘linen cloth’ or ‘canvas’, and the type of fabric first rose to popularity in the mid-1700s. Essentially, toile simply refers to a pattern repeated on the fabric, and most of the time, the pattern depicts a highly complex, detailed, pastoral scene with colors like blue, green, or red over a white or beige background.
And with this rising interior design trend, many designers and decor brands are putting their own spin on the look, from floral motifs with textured details to easy coastal-inspired designs.
Take famed interior designer Sheila Bridges, who most recently created a Harlem toile pattern that has been inspired by her own heritage. ‘As an African-American living in Harlem, I have always been intrigued and inspired by the historical narrative of the decorative arts, especially traditional French toile with its pastoral motifs from the late 1700s,’ says Sheila.
‘I'm entertained by the stories these patterns tell and the questions they sometimes raise. But after searching for many years for the perfect toile for my own home, I decided that it quite simply didn’t exist. I created Harlem Toile de Jouy initially as a wallcovering but then expanded the collection to include fabrics, bedding, plates, glassware, umbrellas, and clothing. This design lampoons some of the stereotypes deeply woven into the African American experience.’
As you can see, toile can encompass pretty much any repeating scene, as long as attention to detail and nature-inspired prints take center stage. Take a look at my favorite options to make decorating with toile an absolute breeze.
Great for rentals, this peel-and-stick wallpaper uses shades of blue to create a dreamy, tree pattern that’s relaxing, yet detail-oriented.
This luxe duvet takes classic toile and gives it a handpainted feel, complete with a garden-inspired motif that’s textured for interest.
Add a French country style to your living room with this cotton reversible throw blanket: The front pattern looks like a scene from an old village, while the reverse features a fun stripe and dot pattern.
This winter-inspired rug gives all the cozy cabin vibes, and yet the blue and white comb means it would work all year round. The pearl cream background paired with denim blue accents is the perfect color scheme for a light and airy scene.
Was $3,198, now $2,398 at Serena & Lily
On this armchair, traditional toile gets a fresh update with palm trees and seaside hues: Think an ode to the California coast.
Was $158, now $126.40 at Anthropologie
Stylish red roses of varying textures and sizes adorn this toile wallpaper, while a pure white background lets the brightness of the pattern steal the show.
Sheila Bridges creates her signature Harlem Toile on a sky-blue pillowcase, using pastoral images inspired by Black history.
Bordered in polished brass, these handcrafted coasters feature a Harlem-inspired toile. They’re durable and made of enameled and lacquered stainless steel to add eye-catching style to your cocktail hours.
Reminiscent of Dutch Delft pottery, this toile wallpaper gives any home a vintage feel with scenes of traditional rural life.
While the initial look of toile design might seem a bit stuffy and traditional, it’s actually a wonderfully chic option to decorate your home with. You can find toile wallpaper, bedspreads, rugs, and so much more, but even subtle coasters and blankets can help you bring a touch of it to your space. No matter whether you want something more traditional or a unique take, there’s a toile option out there for everyone.
