The Relished Roost: Get to know Marimekko!

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Get to know Marimekko!

What exactly does Marimekko mean? Well, it is a play on words yet is completely descriptive. “Mari” is an anagram of the first name of the company’s founder, the late Armi Ratia, while “mekko” means dress in Finnish! It was the dresses that started it all in 1951, but the company has expanded its product line and design in such creative ways its worth taking note of!! One may wonder how can such amazing colors and design come from such a cold country such as Finland. According to the company’s CEO Mika Ihamuotila, his designers feel that when you live in one of the coldest, and sometimes darkest places on earth, you want to create color and warmth through the designs! Well, they have achieved that! I find the fabric to be so bright and cheery, with such fun patterns! They are very playful, yet not always childish.

The company wants to bring to light the need for its customers to establish and display their own individuality and personality! They feel that their products and fabric allow the customer to do just that. I think Marilmekko’s fabric and products can allow us to bring out the fun side of design, and everyday objects that we may take for granted. Now things such as tablecloths, napkins etc., take on a personality all their own! I am intrigued by the possibilities of using their fabrics into traditional settings, to allow a pop of unexpected playfulness to arise! For more information on this intriguing company please check out the website www.marimekko.com! It has some lovely video clips that really give you an idea of their core values, and creative edge!