The Finnish design house's legendary Unikko print takes front and centre in the label's upcoming collection and we can't wait to get our hands on it
In 1964, fabric artist Maija Isola dreamt up an exuberant print, dubbed Unikko, for the legendary Finnish design house Marimekko. Little did she know that her joyous, colour-bursting flower motifs would become an enduring icon and a symbol for the brand, sparking instant recognition in all corners of the globe.
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Unikko, Marimekko has planned a year filled with tributes for the beloved print across its upcoming collections and in its stores worldwide. The first homage comes by way of the label’s spring/summer '24 ready-to-wear collection, for which Marimekko tapped Finnish artist Antti Kekki, who has created five contemporary explorations of floral patterns which seamlessly align with the abstract nature of Unikko. While bearing a resemblance to Unikko, the new prints exhibit a distinct individuality in their aesthetic, offering a fresh perspective into an old favourite.
The first drop features brand new, Unikko-inspired prints by Finnish artist Antti Kekki. Photo: Marimekko
Photo: Marimekko
True to Marimekko’s design blueprint, the SS24 collection fuses feminine silhouettes with modern utilitarian workwear. A cheerful marriage of vibrant prints rendered in invigorating colours inspired by Unikko, Scandinavian minimalism and utilitarianism, the collection boasts everything from timeless A-line dresses to playful co-ord sets and swimwear. Reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability, many pieces have been crafted entirely from recycled or 100 per cent organic materials.
The second drop sees the Unikko print re-imagined in new, vivid colours made partly using recycled and re-used material from Marimekko’s own production. Photo: Marimekko
“The [Unikko] print is celebrated in the spring/summer 2024 collection in more ways than ever, including scale, placement, colouring, and techniques,” says Rebekka Bay, creative director of Marimekko. “We wanted to reflect Marimekko’s design legacy by highlighting two equally meaningful design aspects of Marimekko – the dress as a canvas and bold patterns bringing joy to people’s everyday life.”
As a special treat, the SS24 collection consists of two drops this year, with the first one featuring the collaboration with Kekki set to be released in March. The second drop is scheduled for May, featuring added styles made partly using leftover material and cutting waste from Marimekko’s own production.