Though fashion florals bloom every spring, as the autumn chill sets in this trend is coming up with some thorns, as dark and moody florals dominate the catwalks. No longer the meek and mild wallflowers we’ve seen for so many seasons, this sharper, edgier look is just the right combination of gothic romanticism, film noir and punk-tinged femininity.
Combining dark ebony tones with bright prints gives these blooms a sophisticated edge that can bring your from the office to the bar, with a quick change into some killer heels. Or, if you just can’t do without your light and bright prints, look for body-con styles and black accents to take your chic from sweet to sexy.
Abandoning the decidedly summer feel of fluorescents and neons, the autumn/winter catwalks embrace the darker hues of the season, with some designers choosing to grunge the look up further. Givenchy designer Riccardo Tisci’s new collection combined moody blooms, gypsy elements, plaid and leather for a thistly punk princess look. Punk was also on the mind of designer Massimo Giorgetti, whose sombre, edgy take on the trend included fragmented rose patterns on rich midnight blue backgrounds.
Gothic romanticism can also be achieved through dark, rich fabrics like black or blue velvet, or tops combining dark florals with stud or leather highlights. Yves Saint Laurent designer Hedi Slimane preffered to evoke ’90s rock-chick icons like Courtney Love and other Riot Grrls, by teaming floaty floral babydolls with Doc Martins, or killer gladiator sandals, with stud-emblazoned blazers or leather jackets thrown on top.
If you’re not a fan of the dark palette, fear not: florals can be given an edge by playing with fabrics. Bright sequins can be cross-pollinated with metallics and coloured fur for a tribal rebel edge; bright bloom-print mini-skirts can look seriously high fashion when teamed with a leather t-shirt.
For a demure look, take inspiration from Lanvin, and enjoy the opulence of darkly glamorous jacquard frocks. Or stick with floaty fabrics and maxi dresses to highlight the femininity of darker prints. Muted colours can be given a striking edge when dotted with small, iridescent floral prints, so look for icy greys, blues and greens to evoke cold landscapes, frost-tipped grass and bare trees.
For a simpler way of working florals into your wardrobe – but still creating an eye-catching ensemble with some moody flower power – team simple outfits with big, bold statement jewellery with clusters of blooms and bold colours.