May 5, 2020
Standing out is what we were all meant to do. Isn’t that the purpose of fashion? Of beauty? Marimekko, a Finnish lifestyle brand minted in the 1950’s, embraces this notion head on. Founded on the principles of individualism and boldness of thought and action, Marimekko continues to make waves in the world of modern fashion.
The name Marimekko is a Finnish term meaning ‘Mari’s Dress’, an adage that describes the brands iconic piece that skyrocketed them to popularity with bold women all over the world.
https://www.marimekko.com/com_en/growth-stories/tony-vaccaro
The dress broke the mold for fashion at the time, which was focused on restrictive, demure styles. The out-there prints coupled with the loose, freeing cuts empowered women who would no doubt be involved with the emerging counterculture of the time.
Many deemed the Marimekko styles as anti-fashion – a term the founder and creator, Armi Ratia, no doubt coveted.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38732942
“I really don’t sell clothes. I sell a way of living. They are designs, not fashions. … I sell an idea rather than dresses.” – Armi Ratia
Born in Finland in 1912, Ratia was a creative who pushed for uniqueness and a respect for the individual. She was not interested in selling a piece of cloth; she instead sold a statement. A belief. An understanding that individualism should be celebrated rather than muted.
The brand survives today as a lifestyle experience, offering beautifully crafted prints that adorn clothing, handbags, and household décor. To quote their website, “Striped, checked, and floral patterns comprise Marimekko’s rich and varied artistic legacy…which have graced clothing, bags, accessories, ceramics, bedding, fabric and more”. The vibrant colors remind us that there is beauty not only within ourselves, but in our surroundings. Certainly not for those who want to blend in, Marimekko embraces the ‘loudness’ of individualism.
When you purchase Marimekko, you are investing in a statement. You are supporting the beauty of the individual, and the majesty of coming together.
SOURCES:
Lange, Alexandra; Thompson, Jane (2012). Design Research: The Store That Brought Modern Living to American Homes. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. p. 74
“Ratia, Armi (1912–1979)”. Biografiakeskus.
Www.marimekko.com. “Finnish Design House.” Finnish Design House – Marimekko.com, www.marimekko.com/.