It’s that time of year when, after traveling the country, then researching thousands of images and ideas of floral designs from across the globe, I can share some of the emerging trends that have inspired, moved or gave me a moment of pause. In no particular order of importance, here they are…

Marsala
From the world of fashion and beauty comes the Patone color of the year; Marsala. A rich hue that blends shades of burgundy, browns and just a hint of taupe to complete the color blend. While beautiful in lip color and clothing, it can be difficult to use in floral design. Many a client have requested using this color for their fashion forward floral designs, it’s challenging as you don’t want to go too dark for photographs of the flowers which may appear a blackish red or too aborigine. My solution is use a tri-color palette that ranges from taupe pink, red and wine to provide contrast and yet compliment any shade of Marsala that may be required. The design style that works best is old world Flemish; mixing elements of flowers, foliage and fruit in a classic vessel.

Gray-Yellow
NEW for 2015 is to pair shades of yellow with gray. To keep this color scheme sophisticated I prefer to use flowers that have a slightly more vintage feel to them. Pale shades of mustard and gold mixed with foliage’s of gray green eucalyptus and silver dusty miller. I find this mix to be young, fresh and unexpected. Perfect for casual spring wedding or an elegant garden party. Floral design elements should be tight clusters with the flower stems group by similar shades of color for the best effect.

Organic
A floral design favorite that is called “organic” or “woodland”, is being updated this season. it’s been with us for a couple of years but a new twist is to deconstruct the natural elements and introduce unexpected elements of texture and foliage. Tillandsias , (air plants) mixed fern fronds or flower pod’s are a great way to modify the look of arrangements, use with hydrangeas, garden roses and anenomes in shades of white, cream and green for best results.