The calendar is filled with marriages, backyard parties, and stylish sporting events like the Henley Royal Regatta at this time of year.
From a design viewpoint, this means only one thing: it’s decorative midi dress season. Yes, there are many interesting options, including a relaxed suit, a co-ord, and perhaps a solid-colored midi, but many of us choose to wear florals because they are appropriate for summertime events. It makes sense to wear bouquets on our clothes when they are in bloom.
No wonder, therefore, that the Royals rely on these images but intensely at this time of year. The Queen, Princess Beatrice, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Zara Tindall, Lady Louise Windsor – all have championed the glance in recent days.
Finding a really gorgeous print with a flattering clothing silhouette is not simple, despite this. Far too many high-street shops have unpleasant cut-outs or a too-high cut, or they cling in the wrong places. And avoid the backless gown, with which wearing a bra is difficult. The Royals seem to understand all of this easy.
Of course, they have a couple of benefits: style officials or individual shoppers, who help with plotting, acquiring and coordinating outfits for certain events. Additionally, they have sizable expenditures that allow them to purchase bespoke pieces of Emilia Wickstead or Laura Green dresses from designers like Zimmermann.
However, there’s lot we may learn from them. The first lesson is that there are both flowers and flowers. A generic ditsy print doesn’t look particularly special, something more thoughtfully designed, like Suzannah London’s which are created in partnership with artists, will stand out. Don’t feel you have to lean towards a particular aesthetic, there’s something out there for everyone: retro, graphic, painterly, vintage- inspired.
They don’t have to be expensive either, all of Boden’s prints are designed in house. Likewise, those who shop at St Clair, a American brand of clothing. “I think an enormous, blowsy flower is so loving and feels modern too”, says Blaire Donald, chairman of St Clair. “Our designs are all unique, hand- painted in colour and inspired by American flowers.”
Lesson two: Using fitted or custom shapes to maintain an elegant appearance, something overly pompous could turn heads. Consider hiring a neighborhood tailor to modify a great city dress so it fits you perfectly.
One of our personal artist collaboration florals is often paired with a chic silhouette, and it is made of a material that is simple, simple, and versatile, to keep it current and fresh. says Suzannah Crabb, founder of her (eponymous ) brand Suzannah London.
And on that note, session three is that prints will usually look better on a quality material, hopefully linen, velvet, cloth poplin or a blend. Additionally, they’ll feel more comfortable and cool to use.
If you can’t stretch to a £1000+ style from Suzannah, Zimmermann or Beulah, brands which have become staples in the collective royal wardrobe, consider renting one for a fraction of the price. has the strongest giving.
For something you’ll use time and time again, look to the higher end of the great street, where you’ll discover a powerful decorative occasionwear offering at Cefinn, Me+Em and Rixo – all Royal- approved.
You’re improbable to see anyone else wearing the same thing because Farm Rio, Tresse, and Justine Tabak are still so well-known. The series, which will be released on July 24th, will be a continuation of Joanie’s forthcoming engagement with 60s and 70s textiles designer and Hockney muse Celia Birtwell.
Whatever your budget, occasion, and taste, there will be a floral take to get you through the summer in style – and for summers to come as well.