The story of Unikko began in quite an unusual way. It was born in 1964 after Marimekko’s founder Armi Ratia had publicly announced that Marimekko would never print floral patterns. She thought that flowers were more beautiful in nature than on fabric. On the other hand, she wanted to create something new that would suit the needs of modern life instead of florals that already dominated the world of textiles. However, designer Maija Isola paid no heed to Ratia’s decree and – perhaps inspired by the poppies growing in her yard – painted red Unikko along with an entire series of floral patterns in protest. Unikko looked new, graphic and distinctive, and once Ratia saw it, she immediately included the design in Marimekko’s collection where it has been ever since, symbolising the power of expression and inspiring people to follow their heart and free their creativity.