Do you know what Toile is? It’s a kind of patterned fabric that is used mostly today in decorating. It has a rich history in France. From what I could find out at the museum it was a kind of imitation of fabrics that were imported from India. To make them at home was simpler and cheaper. Spies were even sent to discover the techniques used to create repeating pattern and bright colors. Here’s some examples, I’m sure you’ve seen it before.

When asiatic images are show it falls into a catagory called “Chinoiserie”.

Unfortunately there were no photos allowed inside the Museum. There were carved wooden tools for block printing and copper ones for the highly detailed designs. Most of these parts were melted down after use to move on to the newer items for sale. It was very interesting to learn about. The museum is out of town and about a 15 min walk from the train station. I would recommend it as a day trip.

We took some photos outside in the garden. You’ll see that Marie got dressed up in toile. A skirt from her own fashion collection “Le Boudoire de Marie”. There was a park behind the museum with a grotto! I love grottoes from the romantic period in France.

Outfit details:

Hat: etsy Bonnie’s Knitting

Shirt: Vintage (found in San Francisco ages ago)

Shorts etsy: The Greedy Seagull

Sandals: KJacques

Bag: Kate Spade (gift from my best friend)