A Scandalous Toile: The Secret Language of Our Valentine's Design

If you have ever visited our flagship store on the King's Road, you will know that at Rococo, we believe the eyes should feast long before the first chocolate melts on the tongue.

Our iconic toile pattern is more than just luxury packaging; it is a piece of our history, a symbol of our heritage, and - this February - the canvas for a rather scandalous secret.

While we are known for our British creativity, the heart of our design actually lies across the Channel.

Pull up a chair, and let us let you in on the story behind the pattern.

From Parisian Catalogues to Chelsea Streets

Our story begins in 1983, when our founder, Chantal Coady OBE, set out to change the way the world perceived fine chocolate. Armed with a dangerous passion for chocolate and an eye for artistry, Chantal sought inspiration for a visual identity that felt both timeless and contemporary.

She found it in the "moules pour chocolat" - the antique chocolate moulds of a famed Parisian mould maker. Chantal transformed these intricate, historical sketches into a repeating pattern reminiscent of a classic Toile de Jouy.

To this day, our signature blue and white design symbolises that perfect fusion of heritage and modern British style.

A Scandalous Twist for the Season of Love

For Valentine’s Day, we’ve decided to "pepper" our pattern with a bit of mischief. While it still carries the elegance you’ve come to expect from a Rococo emporium, a closer look reveals that our cupids are keeping some very interesting company.

We’ve taken that original antique French inspiration and given it a tongue-in-cheek update.

Can you recognise some of the new additions we’ve tucked amongst the scrolls?

Look past the familiar silhouettes, and you might find yourself blushing.

The Hidden Aphrodisiacs

That’s right! Scattered throughout this limited-edition Valentine's pattern are illustrations of foods long celebrated for their ability to stir the heart (and the senses). What do these items have in common? They are all legendary aphrodisiacs:

• Champagne: The ultimate symbol of celebration and sparkling romance.

• Chilies: A fiery addition for those who like a little heat in their relationship.

• Seafood & Oysters: The classic coastal delicacies of love.

• Asparagus: A sophisticated, albeit cheeky, nod to ancient romantic folklore.

More Than Just a Pretty Box

We have always believed in creating chocolates with character for the thoughtful shopper.

Our Valentine’s design is a testament to our belief that chocolate making is a true art form: one that should tell a story, evoke an emotion, and perhaps even raise a knowing eyebrow.

Whether you are gifting a heart-shaped box to a long-time partner or a secret crush, the artistry of our toile ensures that the experience begins the moment the gold-foiled paper catches the light.

It is a celebration of British creativity, a nod to our French roots, and a little reminder not to take life - or love- too seriously.

Pop into one of our shops this month to see if you can spot all the hidden details for yourself. We promise it’s a design that truly takes the biscuit.