Fashion is embracing a homespun revival, with designers drawing inspiration from the overlooked beauty of domestic textiles – particularly vintage tablecloths.
Emerging brands like Hairy Mary London, Lydia Bolton, and Rave Review are reimagining traditional linens as modern summer staples. By repurposing embroidered, scalloped, and floral tablecloths, often sourced from charity shops, they’re creating one-of-a-kind garments that fuse rural romanticism with responsibility.
This movement champions craftsmanship and sustainability in equal measure. Each piece boasts hand-sewn trims, intricate needlework, and charmingly faded chintz patterns – all meticulously crafted by hand. The aesthetic recalls both cottagecore softness and the surreal, sun-drenched world of Midsommar, ideal for those in search of some cult-chic allure this season.
In addition to being the perfect bohemian fad for avid trend followers (everyone says thank you to Chemena Kamali for kickstarting the movement), the tablecloth revival is a quiet form of rebellion against fast fashion. The theme celebrates circularity, slowness, and the overlooked artistry of the everyday.
And this is nothing new. Historically, women have turned to their interiors in search of inspiration when crafting clothes. After World War II, women who lived under the Soviet-occupied zone of the German Democratic Republic would construct clothes from shower curtains and tablecloths, the only fabrics they could access under the frugal socialist environment.
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesThe use of tablecloths in fashion isn’t just visually striking – it’s sustainable, intentional, and deeply sentimental, allowing stories of craftsmanship and heritage to be preserved and reimagined for years to come.
Discover how to embrace tablecloth style this season and read on below.
Best tablecloth-inspired pieces to shop for SS25:
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When it comes to luxury upcycling, Rave Review is your first port of call. Made in Stockholm from 100 per cent cotton with lace, the Freesia Dress is a handcrafted mini featuring an asymmetric patchwork of upcycled vintage tablecloths and curtains. A sustainable summer statement.
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The Mary Hinge Skirt
Hairy Mary
Introducing Hairy Mary, the independant brand you need to keep firmly on your summer radar. The Mary Hinge Skirt is a one-of-a-kind, crafted from recycled and vintage textiles with floral embroidery adding a classic touch.
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Mindfully made from 100 per cent European flax linen, Alemais’ Olivia Midi Dress is a breezy choice for weekend frolicking. Yellow stitching, tie-up ribbons and floral detailing make for a fairytale frock.
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A subtle take on the tablecloth trend, Dôen’s sweet mini number is the perfect throw-on option. Complete with scalloped crochet trims along the neckline and wide straps, the piece would pair effortlessly with some cowboy boots and a headscarf.
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Tie-Front Embroidered Kimono
Anthropologie
Peppered with strawberries and frosted with swathes of lace, Anthropologie’s kimono is a breezy bohemian staple. Wear it as it is with jeans or layer over a silky slip mini dress.
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Ainsley Two Piece
Reformation
Not sure what to wear? Slip into a timeless two piece that serves up Midsommar magic with ease. Reformation’s crisp white set is a cotton charmer, complete with a flattering fitted bodice.
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Off-White Asymmetric Patchwork Midi Skirt
JW Anderson
JW Anderson’s off-white asymmetric patchwork midi skirt epitomises modern elegance. Crafted from cotton‑poplin and viscose‑linen panels with subtle stripes, it features a draped, uneven hem and concealed side zip, offering refined, avant‑garde flair.
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Inspired by vintage handkerchiefs and tablecloths, Rixo’s Carey Midi Dress is the perfect gateway into cottagecore style. Team yours with a basket bag and kitten heels for a true dose of rural charm.
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White Floral Embroidered Sleeveless Top
Nobody’s Child
An affordable choice for those wanting a feminine addition to their summer wardrobe, this collared top by Nobody’s Child is pretty and practical in equal measure. Floral embroidery oozes vintage glamour, while a clean-cut silhouette is ideal for teaming with jeans for off-duty cool.
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Winifred Mini Dress
Free People
Free People’s Winifred Mini Dress channels vintage-inspired romance with its puffed sleeves, sweetheart neckline and textured cotton fabric. A flouncy silhouette and gathered bust make it ideal for sun-soaked days or whimsical evenings out.
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Summer Shirt PDF Pattern
Lydia Bolton
Why not try making your own upcycled shirt? Sustainable designer Lydia Bolton has released a series of DIY patterns, perfect for crafty fashion lovers. Just find your dream vintage fabric and start stitching.
How we chose:
- Style: Each piece selected features on-theme floral embroidering, lace, broderie anglaise or cotton textures that are reminiscent of vintage tablecloths to help you embrace the trend with ease.
- Price: We’ve included an array of picks with prices for all pockets.
HELLO!’s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
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