Published: 7 November 2025

Written by Emma Moore, Founder and Designer at Arsenic & Old Lace – a Nottingham atelier creating handcrafted bow ties, ties and pocket squares inspired by British heritage and timeless style.

When I first held the fabric that would become the Milford Collection, I felt an immediate connection to its deep burgundy and crimson tones, and the timeless print beneath them. This beautiful version of the Strawberry Thief design — originally created by William Morris in 1883 — carries with it a rich heritage of craftsmanship and artistry. Each piece in this collection has been lovingly handmade here in Nottingham, the heart of our creative world, using this striking burgundy-red interpretation of Morris’s print.

What truly sparked the spirit of this collection, though, was a visit to the village of Milford in Derbyshire. Nestled along the River Derwent, Milford is steeped in history — once home to the Strutt family’s pioneering cotton mills, part of the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the village, you can still feel the rhythm of industry and artistry that shaped it — red brick against green hills, the hum of craft and creation. That harmony of heritage and landscape found its way into the design: the rich burgundy and crimson tones echoing the warmth of the old mill walls, and the intricate floral pattern reflecting the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

In my studio, surrounded by thread, fabric, and a little chaos of colour swatches, I let the story of this pattern guide me. Morris first designed Strawberry Thief after being captivated by birds stealing fruit from his garden at Kelmscott Manor — a detail that always makes me smile. You can read more about the history of this enchanting design on Wikipedia. In that same spirit of care and craftsmanship, each tie, bow tie, pocket square, children’s bow tie, and pair of cufflinks in the Milford Collection has been made with precision and passion — transforming a 19th-century masterpiece into something beautifully wearable today.

What excites me most about this collection is how it bridges past and present. Morris’s original process — using natural dyes and intricate indigo discharge techniques — was revolutionary for its time. If you’re curious, the team at Laura’s Beau share a wonderful insight into how those methods brought Strawberry Thief to life. Knowing that history made me even more determined to honour it in my own work: ensuring each stitch, fold, and finish reflects the respect this fabric deserves.

The result is a collection that feels deeply rooted in English artistry, yet modern and confident. From its deep burgundy and red palette to its romantic floral detail, the Milford Collection embodies timeless elegance — perfect for winter weddings, festive gatherings, or simply adding a touch of heritage to your everyday style.

If you, like me, find beauty in the stories woven through time, I invite you to explore the collection and make one of these pieces your own.

Explore the Milford Collection — where heritage print meets the modern gentleman.

About the Author

Emma, Founder & Designer — Arsenic & Old Lace

Emma is the designer and creative mind behind Arsenic & Old Lace, a Nottingham-based brand specialising in handcrafted ties, bow ties, and accessories inspired by British heritage and countryside charm. With a background in textile design and a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship, Emma draws inspiration from historic prints, architecture, and the landscapes of the English Midlands.

Her collections — from Parwich to Milford — combine timeless artistry with modern elegance, each piece telling a story stitched in thread. Emma’s work has been featured across independent style blogs and local heritage publications, reflecting her passion for sustainable fashion and authentic, slow-made design.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the William Morris “Strawberry Thief” print?

A: Strawberry Thief is one of William Morris’s most famous textile designs, first created in 1883. It features thrushes stealing strawberries from his garden at Kelmscott Manor, rendered in intricate detail and rich colour. The design remains a symbol of British craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Q: Why did you choose the Strawberry Thief design for the Milford Collection?

A: I’ve always admired how Morris captured both artistry and story within his patterns. The Strawberry Thief’s intricate florals and heritage character felt like the perfect match for Milford — a Derbyshire village built on creativity and industry. Its burgundy and crimson tones reflect Milford’s red-brick mills and enduring warmth.

Q: Is each Milford tie and bow tie handmade?

A: Yes. Every tie, bow tie, pocket square, children’s bow tie, and pair of cufflinks in the Milford Collection is handmade in Nottingham. We use premium cotton and traditional sewing techniques to ensure lasting quality and comfort.

Q: How does the Milford Collection connect to English heritage?

A: The collection celebrates two strands of English history — William Morris’s 19th-century textile artistry and Milford’s place in the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. Together, they represent a legacy of design, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty.

Q: Where can I shop the Milford Collection?

A: You can explore and purchase the full range — from self-tie bow ties to classic neckties and accessories — directly on our website: Shop the Milford Collection.