Wee find: French stripe homewares

Goes with everything, suits everyone.

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The French stripe collection at RE is a quietly joyful celebration of classic design – think understated Riviera chic, but for your kitchen, garden, or living room. RE is an independent homewares shop based in a converted garage in Corbridge, Northumberland, known for its beautifully curated mix of found objects, vintage treasures, and practical, design-led pieces sourced from around the world. It’s on the must-visit list for my next trip to the UK!

There’s something deeply reassuring about these stripes: they’re timeless without being stuffy, and they bring a gentle, lived-in elegance to any space. The range is impressively comprehensive, covering everything from the humble tea towel to the sort of deckchair you’d imagine at a sun-dappled French beach café.

Let’s start with the French stripe tea towels (£15.50 each). They’re the kind of everyday luxury you don’t realise you need until you have them – soft, sturdy, and pleasingly absorbent, with stripes that manage to be both classic and quietly modern. Use them to wrap up some freshly baked croissants from the bakery as a thoughtful present for someone in need of a little cheer. The rolls of French stripe canvas (£29) are similarly versatile, perfect for re-covering a chair if you’re feeling crafty.

For those who want to go all in, there are French stripe cushions (£59) and deckchairs (£105), both of which instantly elevate a space from “nice enough” to “actually rather fabulous.” The deckchairs, in particular, are a bit of a showstopper: robust, comfortable, and with just the right amount of Gallic insouciance.

If you’re after something a little more practical, the French stripe stools (£68) are sturdy and handsome, ideal for extra seating or as a perch for a stack of books.

The collection also includes table runners (£31) and tablecloths (£59), which are perfect for lending a touch of French farmhouse charm to even the most lacklustre weekday dinner. And if you’re a fan of storage, the handsome French stripe washbags (£13) are a smart way to keep your essentials corralled.

For the finishing touch, wide regatta striped ribbons (from £1 per metre) are perfect for gift-wrapping, hair-tying, crafting, or simply tying around a vase of fresh flowers.

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