Black and White Delights

In the middle of all the foxes, all the butterflies and all the sparkles, I've found myself drawn to a lot of black and white bits and pieces recently. Crisp and clean, it's the lemon sorbet palate cleanser of the pattern world, perhaps?

I'm not alone - Laura Ashley, who I often associate with floral abundance, have pulled a surprise out the bag and recently issued this geometric silk Pelham print scarf, available for £24.50. Even more surprising is that this pattern is one of Laura Ashley's original patterns and dates all the way back to 1953 (as a result, perhaps less surprisingly, I opted to have this pattern emblazoned on my nail at the recent Print Like Laura workshop). Despite its heritage, the pattern manages to look fresh and contemporary. And when you look further afield, black and white patterns seem to be EVERYWHERE.

Like Zara. Their new collection is stuffed full of black and white delights, such as this geometric dessert set. It's just £7.99 and I suspect those stripes might make your eyes go a little bit squiffy after too much sugar.

Zara again. This time they've gone for the diamonds and used them to great effect on this Harlequin ceramic vase. It's only £19.99.

Time for tea? Time for triangles? This Ferm Living tea towel bravely straddles that niche and all for only £9.95 from The Goodhood Store.

I've gone rather dotty for the Ikonik tray taken from Norwegian duo Darling Clementine's new collection. With shipping, it'll set you back about £30.

And, to neatly round off the collection of black and white patterns, how about this scalloped cushion? Handmade, it's £28 from Hunkydory Home. Things look better in black and white.