A Souleiado Summer Table

Years ago, Creative Director, Brian Kappra, toured the iconic Le Maison de Souleiado in Provence, France at the invitation of the French American Chamber of Commerce. On that creative excursion, Brian fell in love with Souleiado’s brightly patterned and historically-rich fabrics. As well as the amazing story behind them and the preservational intention around them. So much so, that when he was gifted pieces of the iconic fabrics, he not only accepted them with glee but BOUGHT MORE! He used the fabrics as table runners and overlays for many years. However, the French fabrics have sat largely unused in the Evantine warehouse. Until now.

The Significance of Souleiado

Its story is a magnificent one: that of the “indiennes”, vividly colored cotton fabrics imported from the Great Indies to the coastal port of Marseille at the end of the 16th century. The French adapted these patterns to hand-cut wooden printing blocks and created lengths of fabric for use in fashion design and home decor. The fabrics graced many a summer table and were fashioned into curtains, pillows, or bedding. And, did you know Pablo Picasso wore Souleiado shirts as a rule? He loved them. Even the lovely Princess Diana kept cool and stylish in Souleiado summer dresses, skirts, and blouses. She famously carried soft, quilted bags and purses made with the cheerful, feminine fabrics. Indeed, as with any fashion statement she sported, these bags spurred a fashion crash for over a decade with many brands mimicking the style of Souleiado! Of course, by the time these celebrities, and other doyennes, were wearing Souleiado outfits, the company had switched to copper plate printing. That change of printing style resulted in hundreds of years of “indienne” designs being preserved and protected.

Souleiado at Shop Evantine

Now, after all these years, Brian Kappra’s cherished collection of Souleidao fabrics are available for you to enjoy! Inspired by the colors and patterns, Brian had his Souleiado fabric made into table and cocktail napkins! Sewn by the sewing team at Evantine Design, they are perfect for summer entertaining, and as lovely in 2018 as they were 300 years ago!

Available while supplies last at Evantine on the Square, our retail floral boutique and home decor store in Center City Philadelphia. Located at 715 Walnut Street on Washington Square West. Open Monday through Saturday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.