The Art of Fabric: Discovering James Hare’s Timeless Elegance
As we enjoy the lengthening days and the gentle return of warmth, we find ourselves drawn to fresh sources of inspiration. Spring is often when we turn our thoughts to reimagining spaces—opening up light, introducing softness, and celebrating subtle statements. At times like these, we return to the fabric houses that continue to set the tone in British interiors. One of our most cherished? James Hare Fabrics.
For over 160 years, James Hare has been creating beautiful textiles rooted in a deep understanding of colour, texture and heritage. Known especially for their silks, they balance craftsmanship and creativity with effortless poise. And now, with the launch of their latest collection—Shalimar—they’ve once again captured our imaginations.
The new Shalimar collection is a celebration of contrasts: Bold but refined, traditional but modern. Elegantly blending floral embroideries with geometric jacquards and ikat stripes, it invites creativity in layering and pairing. From the sumptuous Tiger velvet to delicate pinstripes and playful prints, Shalimar is designed for homes that value beauty with personality.
Using this collection, we have recently created a beautifully crafted roman blind and pelmet using Paxton Red/Gold, so stay tuned to see this case study in our next edition.
Why we love working with James Hare
- A True British Heritage Brand
Family-owned and Yorkshire-based, James Hare has long stood for timeless British elegance. Their fabrics don’t follow trends, they set a tone. Quietly confident, always exquisite.
- A Shared Story: Family-Run, Values-Led
At Sarah Wooldridge Design, we understand the strength of a family-run business and James Hare shares this ethos. Still run by the Hare family after more than a century, their approach to fabric-making is rooted in continuity, quality, and long-term relationships. It’s a kindred spirit we truly value—one that places people and integrity at the heart of design.
- Texture That Brings a Room to Life
Silks, velvets, linens—the sensory appeal of these fabrics is undeniable. When dressing a window or creating a soft roman blind, the right texture can completely shift the feel of a space.
- Designs That Invite Layering
What we love most about the Shalimar collection is how effortlessly it lends itself to mixing. Florals with stripes, sheen with matte, bold accents with softer details—it’s a stylist’s dream.
Designing with Intention and Joy
At Sarah Wooldridge Design, we believe the most meaningful interiors are those crafted with intention and care. Fabrics play a quiet but powerful role in that process, framing your view, softening your space, and echoing your style. With collections like Shalimar, James Hare continues to offer us the tools to design with joy, confidence, and a touch of drama.
If you’d like to explore how Shalimar or other James Hare fabrics might enhance your home, we’d love to help. Whether you’re starting a new project or considering a seasonal refresh, we can guide you through samples and ideas tailored to your space.
