A Tribute in Thread: The Story Behind Our Eyam Collection of Ties and Bowties

Every collection I design has a story behind it, but the Eyam Collection holds a particularly special place in my heart. Inspired by the extraordinary history of a quiet Derbyshire village, this mustard and ochre floral range is more than just a best-seller—it’s a tribute to resilience, selflessness, and beauty in the face of adversity.

Let me share the story behind it.

A Village That’s Always Stayed With Me

I didn’t discover Eyam as an adult—I grew up with its story.

I was raised in Hucknall, a small town nestled between Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, where the tale of Eyam was part of the local fabric. We learned about it at school, spoke about it at home, and as a child with a love for history and storytelling, I was completely captivated.

Eyam’s story is as haunting as it is inspiring. In 1665, a tailor in the village received a parcel of cloth from London. Unbeknownst to him, it carried fleas infected with the bubonic plague. Within weeks, villagers began to fall ill. Panic could have led to flight—and with it, the spread of the disease to surrounding towns and cities.

But what Eyam did next was extraordinary.

Under the guidance of the local rector, William Mompesson, and a former Puritan minister, Thomas Stanley, the entire village chose to isolate itself. They created a voluntary quarantine, cutting themselves off from the outside world to prevent the spread of the disease beyond Eyam. Boundaries were marked with boundary stones where villagers would leave coins soaked in vinegar to pay for food and medicine left by neighbours from nearby villages.

For over a year, they stayed inside those invisible borders—farming, nursing their sick, burying their dead. Nearly a third of the village perished—including Mompesson’s own wife, Catherine—but their sacrifice likely saved thousands of lives.

What has always struck me is how quiet and human their bravery was. No fanfare. No reward. Just a village full of ordinary people making an extraordinary choice out of compassion.

Years later, when I began designing bowties and building Arsenic and Old Lace, Eyam’s legacy came back to me. It wasn’t just a historical curiosity—it was part of who I was. And I knew I wanted to honour it in the best way I knew how: through fabric, colour, and story.

From Story to Stitch: Designing the Eyam Collection, ties and bowties to remember

The Eyam Collection was born from that reflection. I chose a mustard and ochre floral print to represent the golden light of a Derbyshire summer, the warmth of human kindness, and the natural beauty that still surrounds the village today.

Florals felt right—not overly delicate, but strong, grounded, and quietly striking. They carry the softness of remembrance and the dignity of legacy. It’s one of those rare prints that flatters everyone, whether you’re wearing it to a wedding, a dinner party, or simply because it makes you feel connected to something meaningful.

Since launching, it’s become one of our most popular collections. I’ve seen it worn by grooms and best men, doctors and teachers, even by parents and children matching for family portraits or special occasions. A few NHS workers have even told me they chose it because of the story behind it. That means the world to me.

A Full Range, Made for Connection

The Eyam Collection includes:

• Pre-tied bowtie – elegant and practical

• Self-tie bowtie – for the purist and traditionalist

• Child’s bowtie – for weddings, family photos, and matching moments

• Cufflinks – subtle, classic, and perfect for gifting

• Pocket square – a finishing touch or stand-alone flourish

  
  

Every piece is made with care, using high-quality materials and timeless construction. It’s a collection designed for connection—for those who value detail, meaning, and history stitched into something wearable.

Why Eyam Still Matters

In a world that often moves too quickly, the Eyam Collection reminds me to pause. To honour the stories that shape us. To remember that courage doesn’t always look like heroics—it sometimes looks like staying still. That generosity may mean sacrifice. And that from grief, beauty can still grow.

It’s a story worth wearing. And I’m so proud to share it with you.

With love,

Emma

Founder, Arsenic and Old Lace

Explore our eyam collection of ties bowties and accessories

About Arsenic and Old Lace

At Arsenic and Old Lace, we believe a bowtie is more than just an accessory—it’s an attitude. Since founding the shop, I’ve worked to create a space where craftsmanship, personality, and purpose come together in every piece we offer.

We specialise in handmade bowties, both pre-tied and self-tie, crafted in limited runs using thoughtfully sourced fabrics. Each design is chosen not only for its beauty but for how it fits into real lives—whether you’re a doctor seeking a hygienic touch of style, a groom planning your big day, or simply someone who appreciates the quiet power of a well-made detail.

Everything we do is about intention. Slow fashion. Quality over quantity. And helping you feel just a little more like yourself—whether you're on the dance floor, in the boardroom, or simply out for dinner.