When Miranda Priestly famously declared florals for spring as “groundbreaking” in the 2006 film adaptation of Lauren Weisberger's novel The Devil Wears Prada, a lifetime of fashion memes were made; and subsequent commentary on designers presenting blooms for their Spring/Summer 2023 collections began.
But it goes without saying that the flower is fashion’s greatest muse – enduring time and traversing traditions – and of course, the spirit of springtime gets us all wanting to bust out our best bouquets. Floral motifs bring dimension to an outfit without venturing into colour blocking, can be worn from day to night and come in a bunch of iterations – from prints, to embellishment and 3D appliqué.
And after dominating the more recent AW23 runways (think Prada’s origami offerings, Burberry’s raving roses and Chanel’s ode to the camellia), let's not beat around the bush, florals are sticking around in 2023 so here’s how to wear them best.
Grab your watering can, rake, and hose because for spring we are heading outside and into the garden to bring you the designers sowing the seeds of chic and proving that florals can definitely be groundbreaking…
Shushu Tong
Shushu Tong is a brand for modern women who dares to express themselves by wearing unabashedly feminine details—think ruffles, bows and embellishments en masse. This layered floral frock is an ode to the rose. Ruffles upon ruffles build up like delicate petals and these printed pumps and matching bow-embellished mini bag make budding companions. Water the beds in style and you flounce into the spring season.
Stine Goya
Stine Goya’s playful use of petals is continued here with a pastel embroidered 3D floral dress sure to rake in compliments this spring. So, give winter chills the cold shoulder and opt for this season's favourite floral trend.
Christopher Kane
The brand known for its green fingers, Christopher Kane has been ploughing florals season after season. Marrying the natural world with the digital, this sheer cape top comes up roses, digitally printed and layered with PVC for a signature contemporary feel. While pleats and bow-embroidered slip-ons compliment the classic reference.
Valentino
A few weeks ago when Zendaya stepped out at the SAG Awards in a custom pink silk dress adorned with dramatic rose appliqué, designed especially for her by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli, our hearts stopped. The brand has been channelling florals this spring in the boldest of ways. This look features yellow bloom in abundance, flourishing on sheer tulle shirting and sexy skinny trousers. So, don’t get tangled up in indecision and go bold this season.
Stine Goya
Danish designer Stine Goya is a firm believer in the power of colour. And while Scandinavian design aesthetic has been synonymous with minimalist design and a muted palette for decades, Stine Goya has offered women something far more vibrant since she founded her brand in 2006. In her rich exploration of colour and print, bright abstract florals spill out over this v-neck slip dress – best paired with a latex take on gardening gloves and boots built for muddier terrain.
Photographer: Naomi Ngoo Richmond
Styling: Eve Bailey
Hair and Make-up: Lillie Lindh
Fashion Assistant: Emily Whitehurst
Model: Kit at Body London
Text: Augustine Hammond
