Fashion trends: Floral streets

Fashion trends: Floral streets (Photo: iStock)

Are floral dresses all the rage, or is it their timeless appeal that can be adapted to suit any personal style, from bohemian to classic?

The key is understanding how to choose the right dress for your shape and the event you’re attending. For those with an hourglass figure, floral dresses that are cinched at the waist can beautifully accentuate your curves.

A-line floral dresses work well for pear-shaped bodies, balancing the hips and creating a harmonious silhouette. If you have an apple shape, floral empire waist dresses can be incredibly flattering, drawing attention upwards and creating a lengthening effect.

The size of the floral print is crucial to creating the right visual impact. Larger floral prints can be bold and eye-catching, making a statement at summer parties or outdoor events.

However, they can overwhelm petite frames, so shorter women may prefer smaller, more delicate florals.

For plus sizes, medium florals often work best as they do not disappear into the fabric or create an overwhelming effect. Vertical florals can create a slimming illusion, while scattered small florals can be universally flattering.

Colour combinations in floral dresses can dramatically affect their versatility and impact. Pastel florals on light backgrounds are perfect for daytime events in spring and summer, creating a fresh, romantic vibe.

Bold, vibrant florals on darker backgrounds can transition seamlessly from day to night and are often suitable for more formal occasions.

Consider your skin tone when choosing colours - warm skin tones often look best in floral prints with gold, orange or red tones, while cooler skin tones will shine in floral dresses with blue, purple or green undertones.

The occasion plays an important role in choosing the right floral dress. For casual daytime events, a breezy cotton floral sundress teamed with sandals and a denim jacket creates an effortlessly chic look.

For the office, opt for a more structured floral dress in muted colours, teamed with a blazer and pumps for a professional yet feminine look.

Evening events call for more sophisticated floral prints - think dark backgrounds with metallic floral accents or rich, jewel-toned flowers on flowing fabrics.

Styling floral dresses is all about balance. For a dress with a bold floral print, keep accessories minimal to allow the dress to take centre stage.

A simple pendant necklace and stud earrings will often do the trick. For more subdued floral prints, you can be bolder with accessories - statement earrings or a chunky bracelet can add personality to the outfit.

Shoe choices can dramatically change the mood of a floral dress - pair with trainers for a casual look or with heels for a more polished look.

Layering is another great way to style floral dresses for different seasons and occasions. In cooler weather, pair your floral dress with a leather jacket for an edgy contrast or a cardigan for a softer look.

Belts can be used to cinch in the waist on loose floral dresses, creating shape and adding a personal touch to the outfit.

Don’t be afraid to mix patterns - a striped blazer over a floral dress can create an interesting, fashion-forward look if done right.