Budget to bougie: Nine ways to wear florals this spring

"This season’s garden party is bound to turn heads. And it’s about time too. After what has felt like the world’s wettest winter and spring, we’re making up for lost wear time."

Fri, 26 Apr, 2024 - 12:00

Annmarie O'Connor - @aocdotme

Big, bright, bold: that’s how we do florals. No more darling buds or shy wallflowers.

This season’s garden party is bound to turn heads. And it’s about time too. After what has felt like the world’s wettest winter and spring, we’re making up for lost wear time.

To be honest; we’re here for it.

What our wardrobes need is an emergency injection of mood-boosting prints in auxiliary shades of blue, green and red.

Cult Danish label, Ganni and the new kid on the block, Florere both win big here. Ditto for Australia’s fan-favourite, Nicholas.

Feeling trend-shy? Look to pieces that incorporate a hint of stabilising navy or black. We do live in Ireland, after all.

Otherwise, indulge in their playful and painterly botanical dresses for the warm weather social calendar.

It's not all roses, mind you. Poppies are also giving us main character vibes, thanks to names like Essentiel Antwerp and Parisian favourite, Rouje.

Wear them unapologetically, overblown and taking up space or stitched onto a basket bag for French chic with a vintage twist.

More of a shoe adherent? Zara’s red suede floral heels demand attention—as well as a red-hot pedicure.

A small price to pay after the compliments you’ll receive when worn with one of the retailer’s Bardot-style midi-dresses. You can thank me later.

In the meantime, I’m getting colour brave with the help of Portuguese style-rebel and content creator, @ellenahue.

Follow her kaleidoscopic ‘how to’ stories on Instagram and get set to be seen this summer.

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