Unikko

Unikko is a floral fabric pattern created by Finnish designer Maija Isola for the textile company Marimekko in 1964. It is one of the most enduring and recognizable designs in Marimekko’s catalog, commonly used on fabrics, clothing, and home products.

The motif features a stylized poppy with bold, simple shapes and a graphic, hand-drawn look. The original version showed large red poppies with dark centers on a white background, though the pattern has since been produced in numerous colorways, including combinations with black, pink, blue, and other hues. The name Unikko means “poppy” in Finnish.

Origins and significance: Unikko was born after a famous commission by Marimekko’s founder, Armi Ratia, who challenged Isola to design a floral print to counter the company’s reputation for non-floral patterns. Isola produced Unikko as a striking, modern flower motif, which helped propel Marimekko to international recognition during the 1960s. The pattern stood out for its large scale, graphic simplicity, and vibrant color options.

Impact and usage: Since its debut, Unikko has been produced continuously and adapted across a wide range of products, including fabrics for dresses and upholstery, as well as home textiles, bags, and tableware. It remains a staple in Marimekko’s collections and is frequently reissued in new colorways and collaborations, reflecting its status as a timeless symbol of mid-20th-century modern design.