Looking back at the history of floral design can influence and inspire design trends for the future. A unit within my Diploma course explained how floral design has varied and developed over period of time. Below I look at 5 key European floral trends from different eras.
Renaissance
(1400-1600 A.D.)
Design Elements:
Floral motifs Fruit and vegetables
Classic style urns
Woven baskets
Dianthus, daisies, lilies, violets, roses
The renaissance style emigrated from Italy throughout Europe. The creative energy and inspiration came from still life paintings which were popular at the time. Fruits and foliage such as olive and ivy were included within arrangements. Designs developed throughout this period to become more and more ornate.
Baroque
(1600 – 1775 AD)
Design Elements: Large, bold flowers
Large metal or glass containers
Ornamental Gladiolus, roses, iris, peony, marigold, branches
Colour Metallics
Moving into the Baroque period meant floral arrangements were becoming much more ornamental and dramatic. Interiors at this time were becoming more lavish and this translated into the floral trends. The style was decadent, flamboyant and dramatic.
Rococo
(1715-1744 AD)
Design Elements:
Tighter, denser arrangements
Taller pieces
Roses, Hydrangeas Delicate glass containers
Soft pinks, whites and gold
In contrast to the exuberant Baroque style, Rococo floral design took influence from the romance of France and designs developed into a more feminine, delicate approach. The shape of arrangements changed to tall, elegant figures. Soft pinks and complimenting pastel colours emphasised the feminine and pretty style within this period.
Georgian
(1714-1810 AD)
Design Elements:
Vibrant colour palettes
Wedgewood urns
There wasn’t much transition from the Rococo period, during the Georgian period floral design remained very similar. Due to the influence in overseas trading, there was an oriental element to some of the designs. The fragrance and herbal symbolism of flowers came into play at the end of this period as well as wearable pieces. Pottery design by Wedgewood introduced more vibrant colour palettes.
Victorian
(1830-1901 AD)
Design Elements:
Tiny flowers
Posy arrangements
Trinkets, Bell jars Bud vases
Forget me nots, feathers, shells
Flowers in this period became much more fashionable and recognised as a skill and profession. The style adopted a miniature approach with more detailed flowers being the key focus. These were complimented with small trinkets such as feathers, figurines to give a focal point and interest.
Image Credits: Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Georgian, Victorian
