Owen Jones didn’t just design patterns – he decoded the very language of ornament. In The Grammar of Ornament (1856), he collected and celebrated designs from cultures across the world, proving that beauty follows principles that are both timeless and universal.

This particular piece, inspired by Chinese ornament, is more than a decorative motif. It’s a study of balance, symmetry, and flow. Floral forms intertwine endlessly, creating a tapestry that feels both infinite and alive. With its vibrant blues, soft pinks, and delicate greens, it’s a composition that’s as elegant today as it was a century and a half ago.

From paper to steps

At Footnote, we love art that endures – art that reminds us that design isn’t just about fashion, it’s about heritage. By translating Jones’ ornamental masterpiece onto our premium socks, we’re not just preserving history. We’re letting it walk again, carried into the present with every step.