Selvedge - Issue 125 Mediterranean

Issue 125 Mediterranean

 A lovely article on Loop in this issue!

With the economy under pressure and family budgets stretched, holidays are often the first thing to go. They may feel like a luxury, but the absence of rest and reflection can take a deeper toll than any balance sheet reveals.

This issue of the magazine draws inspiration from The Fortnight in September by R.C. Sherriff—an exquisitely written novel that follows an ordinary family on their annual seaside holiday. It’s a quiet celebration of life’s simple pleasures and the restorative power of stepping away, however briefly, from the demands of daily life. As the story reminds us, time to pause, recharge, and see the world with fresh eyes can be transformative.

For those unable to travel, the magazine offers an escape through its pages—a richly woven journey across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Readers are invited to drift past the islands of Corsica, Madeira, and Mallorca before arriving in Greece, where a visit to the Benaki Museum reveals the enduring significance of weaving in both myth and daily life. The issue also explores Egyptian embroidery techniques, tracing their path from traditional dress to Hollywood and the contemporary catwalk.

In Spain, Portugal, and Italy, the focus shifts to modern artisans crafting beautiful, meaningful objects from natural materials. Morocco offers a different kind of discovery: an antique textile hunter, a rare breed of Siroua sheep, and a new design brand born from heritage and innovation.

The journey concludes in Istanbul, on the edge of Europe, where hammams, handwoven towels, and centuries-old patterns provide a feast for the senses.

Whether read on holiday or at home, this edition is a reminder that even an imagined journey can be revitalising. Through texture, story, and tradition, it offers readers a breath of fresh air—and inspiration for the months ahead.