Some fabrics feel like old friends the moment you meet them. That’s exactly how I felt when I unrolled the bolt of this electric neon Strawberry Thief—a bold reimagining of William Morris’s 1883 design. It was vibrant, unapologetic, and utterly charming. I knew immediately that it belonged in our world.

And so, The Nottingham Collection was born.

We named this collection not just for the city where we lovingly handcraft each piece, but for what Nottingham represents. It’s a place steeped in textile history—lace making, print studios, and quietly radical ideas. A city where design and defiance have long gone hand in hand. Just like Morris himself, who dared to mix birds and blossoms in a way that no one else had imagined.

This fabric—part of the 2022 Classic Collection—is a contemporary twist on Morris’s original. The iconic little thrush, caught in the act of stealing a strawberry, feels just as mischievous now as it did over a century ago. And in this vivid colour palette, it sings. It’s heritage, but with a wink.

The Nottingham Collection includes bow ties, ties, and pocket squares—each one stitched with care in our studio, using time-honoured techniques and a deep love of beautiful things. We’ve kept the silhouettes classic, letting the fabric speak for itself. Whether you're suiting up for a wedding or just want to bring a touch of the unexpected to your weekday look, these pieces are designed to start conversations.

For me, this collection is a tribute in thread—to Morris, to Nottingham, to the artists and printmakers who came before us. But it’s also for those of us who still believe that a well-made accessory can hold history, personality, and just a little bit of mischief.

With love from Nottingham,

Emma x

Browse the full Nottingham collection here

About Arsenic and Old Lace

At Arsenic and Old Lace, we believe style should be anything but ordinary. Based in Nottingham, England, we specialise in handcrafted accessories for people who want to wear their personality with pride.

Each bow tie, tie, pocket square, and cufflink we create is made in-house with care, using carefully chosen fabrics—from heritage prints to contemporary designs—all sewn with precision in our Nottingham studio. We take inspiration from history, nature, literature, and a touch of theatrical flair.

Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, an event, or simply adding something special to your everyday look, our pieces are made to bring joy, confidence, and a little sparkle of storytelling to your wardrobe.