FLOWER POWER: THE HOTTEST SUMMER TREND
From left to right: Prada, Chanel, and Acne Studios. (Photo Credit: Vogue)
Whether it was the 1700s author Jonathan Swift, Winston Churchill, Mark Twain or Steven King who is credited with saying “everything old is new again“, the quote perfectly sums up the fashion trend cycle. For the past few seasons Y2K fashion has been ruling the runway and blowing up our Instagram and TikTok feeds, specifically, the flower embellishment trend. For summer 2023, the Y2K handmade flower, popularized in the early aughts by Carrie Bradshaw (of Sex and the City fame) is back. This trend is growing (no pun intended) and taking the fashion world by storm.
Carrie Bradshaw had a love for oversized flowers. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
From delicate lace and chiffon to bold leather and paper, handmade flowers are the rage. Rosettes, camellias, carnations and abstract versions thereof, are all timeless motifs that can be incorporated into any outfit. At UOF, we provide lessons on how to create these handmade embellishments to liven up any garment or accessory. We’re seeing them on everything…from basic t-shirts to little black dresses. Here’s some inspiration:
ROMANTIC AND ELEGANT
A look from Dries Van Noten’s Spring 2023 Collection. (Photo Credit: Vogue)
Whether you choose to adorn a little summer dress or a blouse with delicate flower details, this flower power trend is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and grace to your wardrobe.
VERSATILE AND ADAPTABLE
A look from Sandy Liang’s Fall 2023 Show. (Photo Credit: Imaxtree)
Another great thing about adding flowers is that they are incredibly versatile and adaptable. Whether you prefer bold, statement-making flowers or more subtle and understated versions, there’s a style and size for every taste. Use them as a simple accent, or go all-out with an outfit that’s covered in them.
PLAYFUL AND FUN
A look from Blumarine’s Spring 2023 Show. (Photo Credit: Cosmopolitan)
Add flowers strategically to certain areas of a garment, or on sandals, shoes, handbags and hats. Handmade flowers are guaranteed to put a smile on your face and will add a touch of whimsy to any outfit.
AN ARRAY OF COLORS
Rocking Prada’s Spring 2023 Collection on the streets. (Photo: Credit Imaxtree)
Another idea is to use flowers in multi-colors or in different fabrics and other materials, like plastic, faux leather, patent leather or paper. Whether you prefer soft pastels or bold jewel tones, or, how about some psychedelic-colored flowers?
SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY
Roomshop Rosette Scrunchies. (Photo Credit: Anthropology)
How about making flowers with upcycled materials? Or for the eco-friendly designer, out of sustainable and natural fibers? It’s a great way to support these efforts.
CELEBRITIES EMBRACE FLOWER POWER
Celebs around the globe have been rocking the flower embellishment trend. Here are some samples:
Actress Zendaya at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards. (Photo Credit: L’Officiel)
A slew of actresses wearing assorted flowers on the red carpet. (Photo Credit: Getty Images. Collage Credit: InStyle)
Harry Styles jumped on the flower trend for the 2023 Brit Awards. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
As the flower embellishment trend continues to gain momentum, why not get in on the action by learning how to make your own handmade versions? Watch these lessons: