Design Porn: Alison Appleton

I need very little encouragement to want to buy new tea sets so when I found Alison Appleton's website, it was like finding an internet based ceramics enabler. I've probably been coveting Alison's designs for ages without realising - she's had her designs sold in the likes of John Lewis and Zara Home and worked with La Cafetiere. I am rather taken by her 'Darcy' collection.

Alison was inspired by Regency era society for this design and it's got a beautiful Oriental feel to it. The teapot (along with all of Alison's other teapots) comes with an integral strainer which is always a good thing. The Darcy teapot is £55 while the cup with saucer and porcelain spoon is £24.95.

Her Golden Carp collection is like Darcy's glitzy, ritzy sister. Inspired by Parisian tea salons and chinoiserie, the flash of gold on the lid against the gorgeous greeny-blue make this a luxurious looking set but one that you could use every day.

The teapot is £55 and the set of four cups is £24. I love that they don't have handles. It makes them seem quite delicate somehow.

If you're still looking for Christmas presents (I am!), why not treat someone to her Love mugs? Spread affection without the schmaltz for £15.

I must go and update my list for Santa now.