Floral design

Lore & Background

Floral design is considered a section of floristry, but pertains only to the design and creation of arrangements, not marketing, merchandising, caring for, growing, or delivery of flowers. The history of flower arrangement first dates back to ancient Egypt, where Egyptians placed lotus flowers and buds in vases nearly 4,000 years ago and created bouquets, wreaths, garlands, headwear, and collars using sacred plants like lotus and papyrus. Ancient Greeks and Romans also created garlands and wreaths to wear, as well as cornucopias of fruits and vegetables as religious offerings.

Reader's Guide

Floral design has been influenced by Eastern, Western, and European styles. Chinese and Korean arrangements traditionally reflect Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist ideas, while Japanese ikebana incorporates three line placements corresponding to heaven, humans, and earth. European styles include Renaissance pieces with symbolism and bright triadic colors, French designs with soft pastels and no focal point, and English formal triangular arrangements. In the Americas, Colonial Period arrangements used wildflowers and grasses, later evolving under European influence.

Modern floral design emerged as an art form in the mid-20th century, with designers breaking from rigid patterns to create abstract designs or new styles. Today's arrangements range from zero abstraction to total abstraction. The seven principles and five elements guide creation, though some historical and modern styles may disregard certain principles.