Why William Morris Ties Are Having a Moment — And How to Actually Wear One
What was once the preserve of your grandmother's wallpaper has found its way onto neckties — and wearing a William Morris print tie badly is very easy. Get it right, though, and you'll look like the most interesting person in any room.
I've been testing Crossrow London's range of Morris-inspired and Liberty Tana Lawn™ ties, and I'm genuinely impressed by how wearable they've made these bold prints.
The Heritage of the Print
William Morris was a Victorian designer who believed beautiful design should be part of everyday life. His nature-inspired patterns have endured for over 150 years because they manage to be intricate without being busy. Crossrow London has translated some of his most iconic designs into ties using Liberty Tana Lawn™ cotton — a fabric produced in London since 1875.
The Collection: Three Ways to Wear the Strawberry Thief
They've also got these beautiful arts-and-crafts inspired cotton ties:
How to Wear a Bold Print Tie Without Looking Ridiculous
The Four Rules
Pair it with a plain white or light blue shirt. Always. A patterned tie on a patterned shirt is a headache, not an outfit.
Navy or charcoal is your best friend. The tie becomes the focal point, which is exactly what you want.
A bold print tie with a fussy pocket square creates visual noise. A plain white linen square with a simple fold is all you need.
The worst thing you can do with a statement tie is look apologetic about wearing it. When someone says "great tie," just say "thanks."
Where to Wear Them
The Indigo version — dark enough to read as "professional with personality."
The Teal and Pink were practically designed for wedding season.
White Oxford, chinos, blazer. You'll look like you planned your outfit.
At £30.99, a Liberty print tie looks like you spent twice that.
The Verdict
The Liberty Tana Lawn™ cotton has a beautiful drape and a slightly matte texture that makes these ties look expensive and feel luxurious without the designer price tag. They knot well, sit nicely, and they're the sort of piece that makes your whole outfit look more considered.