I’ve been emailing back and forth with Boulder Blooms about the upcoming Calluna Events 5th Anniversary Party that is taking place on March 27th. We’ve been talking about flowers for the party and what sorts of trends they are seeing this year in colors. They directed me to this great website The California Cut Flower Commission and the page that list the American Floral Trends Forecast for 2008-2009.
They list five separate styles that encompass not only the colors but types of flowers and decor that compliment and pull together the entire look. Taken directly from the website, the following is a list of the styles.
A concern for the Earth, its flora and fauna, informs “Habitat” and its related lifestyle. Gentler, yellowed greens dominate, with touches of blue yielding a calm and natural feeling. Collected elements include mosses, nests, vines and other found natural objects, which are displayed casually and yet somewhat scientifically, as an English botanist might observe specimens under glass. Flowers and plants of interesting form and texture are showcased. Birds are a key element, and they also are vehicles for the whimsy evident in this palette. “Habitat” provides a restful, serene and studious environment that communicates one’s ecological values, respecting the delicate balance between the Earth and its people.
“Nocturne” exudes luxury and opulence with a darker edge. This provocative, urban palette is inspired by haute couture and celebrity culture. Lustrous hues of grayed purples, plums and roses combine in overflowing arrangements that bring together deeply colored flowers with powerful silhouettes. Blocks of color and floral materials define these designs. Light and shadow interplay, with shimmery, glittery elements employed for their luminescent, reflective qualities. Burnished gold punctuates this look. Among this palette’s icons is the chandelier, with its dramatic draped outline. This palette fits well in a modern update of baroque style. “Nocturne” expresses elegance and luxury with abandon.
A tranquil, calming aura floats through “Whisper,” with neutral, hushed tones of creams, grays and blues. Stronger earth tones, such as brown and charcoal, provide a base, and a hint of dusty coral and shimmery copper add punch. Texture is crucial, and collected objects take center stage. Clutter is banished, reflecting our yearning for simplicity in a world of overabundance. Flowers are stylized, not arranged: floated in vessels, placed monobotanically or formed into orbs, for example. Unusual forms with interesting textures are standouts. The setting is modern but not sterile. “Whisper” invites us to settle in and let tranquility and texture envelop our senses.
The bright colors of tribal handicrafts from around the globe populate this trend, from golden oranges and saturated blues to deep fuschias and browntinged reds–they give the feel of stepping into a faraway bazaar. Elements are gathered and displayed in collections. Handcrafting is evident throughout, in the objects themselves and in their simple, geometric patterns. Emphasized are handicrafts that support people who are looking for a way to support themselves. In the floral arrangements, this same artisan quality is evident; the designs are intricately woven. “Nomad” celebrates the wanderlust in each of us and the global influences that shape our world in a vivid, exciting palette.
“Chinoiserie” (pronounced shen-wah’-zeh-ree), a French term describing European interpretations of Chinese style from the 17th and 18th centuries, reflects China’s influence as a world power and Westerners’ fascination with the country, the site of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games. This update features a midtone color palette encompassing dominant pink-toned reds as well as lighter purples and greens as complements. Expressive, singular blooms are standouts, and materials are arranged with an Asian sensibility, a respect for the line over mass. Patterns are stylized and precise. “Chinoiserie” offers a new take on cultured style and beauty with its exotic sophistication.
