Toile or 'Toile de Jouy' is a type of decorative pattern in which a complex scene is depicted in repetition throughout a fabric. The toile fabric is usually a light color - tan, beige or off-white - allowing for a blank canvas-like background for such toile designs. A toile scene typically features lovers, families, picnics, dogs playing fetch, or a variety or other pastoral scenes; it is not uncommon to also see a flower pattern in a toile design. Though originating in 1700's France, recent years have seen toile patterns reemerge as a modern home decor staple in the form of curtains, wallpaper, and upholstery fabrics; and clothing and bag designers are also using toile designs on designer handbags and apparel.
