These floral fits are perfect for brighter, better days

Dresses dotted with darling buds, scarves bearing delicate petals are more than a harbinger of spring; they’re wellness-coded shortcuts to feeling good

Sat, 07 Feb, 2026 - 02:00

Annmarie O’Connor

I’ve never been one to follow style rules, especially when it comes to prints.

Florals, for instance, make more sense to me on barren winter days.

Dresses dotted with darling buds, scarves bearing delicate petals are more than a harbinger of spring; they’re wellness-coded shortcuts to feeling good. 

As Mother Nature turns over for a second sleep, we could all use a serotonin boost. And if you’re like me, the iteration of floral prints may vary.

I have a weakness for big and brash, seventies-inspired wallpaper. Extra marks for a nostalgic sepia-toned palette, which is why the latest drop from Essentiel Antwerp, sits top of my wish list:  an off-white A-line skirt and double-breasted matching coat peppered with brown roses.

Wear together with a collar-centric shirt or mix and match with your wardrobe favourites for best results. 

In keeping with vintage inspiration, hand-painted floral plates make the grade at Stine Goya across comfy TENCEL™ Lyocell separates and accessories, alongside branches and leaves quilted on soft leather bags by Danish brand Munthe or floral-adjacent shapes like Capulet & Montague’s pomegranate earrings.  For a modernist twist, try Very Ireland’s wearable bouquet: a black strapless gown decorated with a full-scale chain stitch technique.

Layer over a pair of black trousers. Finish with kitten heels and a slicked-back bun. Entrance made. 

If the ever-present rain still proves a damper, visceral red poppies are the antidote.

Swap your weekend comfies for a pair of Aloha From Deer trousers and stimulate your nervous system with the visual promise of better days. Rules: why follow them when you can rewrite them?   

Double-breasted coat, €325; A-line skirt, €245, Essentiel Antwerp