Why I Love Liberty Fabrics

The story behind our most-loved prints

From the very beginning of Justine Tabak, Liberty fabrics have been at the heart of what I do. Their prints are timeless, their quality unmatched, and their heritage rich with story—everything I look for in the fabrics I use.

A Story of Craft and Creativity

Liberty was founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, who opened his now-iconic store on London’s Regent Street with a vision to bring beautiful, handcrafted goods from around the world to a British audience. Inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement and the decorative arts of Japan and the East, Liberty quickly became a hub for artists, designers and free-thinkers.

By the early 1900s, Liberty was shaping the look of British design, working with the likes of William Morris and embracing the flowing forms of Art Nouveau. Their in-house textile studio began producing original prints in the 1890s—many of which still inspire the patterns used today. Their archive now holds over 50,000 artworks, a treasure trove of British textile heritage.

Perhaps most iconic of all is Tana Lawn cotton, launched in the 1920s and named after Lake Tana in Sudan. Finely woven, smooth as silk, and vibrant in colour, it’s a fabric that feels every bit as luxurious as it looks—yet remains practical and durable.

Why Liberty is at the Heart of My Designs

Unmatched quality
Liberty’s Tana Lawn is wonderful to wear. It is incredibly soft, breathable, and strong. It holds its shape beautifully and drapes with effortless grace—ideal for my vintage-inspired silhouettes that combine ease with elegance.

Timeless prints
Each Liberty print is like a tiny work of art. From intricate florals to bold, graphic patterns, many are drawn from the archive and reimagined for today. They carry a sense of nostalgia and storytelling that I love to weave into every collection.

A dream to sew with
Tana Lawn glides through the machine, doesn’t fray, and rewards precision with perfect seams. Whether I’m making a breezy summer dress or a crisp blouse, Liberty fabric makes the whole process feel joyful.

A Favourite Among Designers (and Families, Too)

From Mary Quant and Jean Muir in the 1960s to Vivienne Westwood, Paul Smith and Anna Sui today, Liberty prints have long been a favourite of designers who value both tradition and individuality.

But Liberty isn’t just for catwalks—it’s part of everyday lives and wardrobes. I remember my dad wearing Liberty shirts in the ‘70s, bold and floral, full of character. My mum had those dreamy, flowing Liberty dresses, all hippy charm and soft cotton. Those family memories are stitched into my love for Liberty today—it’s not just iconic, it’s personal.

Made to Be Loved for Years

Liberty fabrics are more than just beautiful—they’re woven with history, memory, and meaning. I choose them not only for their quality and charm, but for the way they carry something deeper. Every piece tells a story—of heritage, creativity, and clothes made to last.

Do you have a favourite Liberty print? I’d love to hear your stories. Share your creations in our celebration of Liberty.