Miranda Priestly may have said it best: “Florals for spring? Groundbreaking.” If those words reverberate in your brain as you get dressed for any occasion in spring, you’re not alone. She may have had a point — for there is no motif more pervasive in spring fashion than the flower — but springtime florals can be equal parts cool and contemporary. Don’t believe us? A glimpse at the latest collections, from local and international designers alike, ought to convince you.  

It seems that in 2024, spring florals have never been more exciting. The rose, a flower long beloved by punk fashion designers, has had a romantic renaissance in the form of brooches and three-dimensional takes atop gowns and suiting. Australian brands like Oroton and Aje have found a place for crocheted and embroidered flowers on business at the front, party at the back shirts.  

“Wearing florals in spring has been given a bad wrap,” says Annie Doig, InStyle Australia’s market editor, “but in reality, there’s no better time of year to lean into the fun and femininity of it all.” Rather than opting for classic flowery prints though, Doig recommends going big. “Bold and graphic floral prints — think anything that might be a little more abstract — is a cool way to wear the trend that’s not stereotypical.” Accessories, like bags and scarves, are an easy way to experiment with the trend too, if you’re not quite ready to dive in with a head-to-toe print.  

Inspired by Doig’s advice, discover our edit of floral pieces even Miranda Priestly would approve of.  

At first glance, this butter yellow mini is delicately ruched. But take a closer look and you’ll see it’s actually delicately embroidered with sheer fabric reminiscent of petals. Proof that florals can be unexpected.  

SHOP NOW: Florential Mini Swing Dress, $495 from Aje, Level 1 

As if it’s been swiped with burnt umber paint, Manning Cartell’s Marigold blouse is just the kind of print Doig was talking about: bold, brave and a little abstract. Adorned with gold detailing at the neck and a ruched neckline, it’s the perfect mix of sophisticated and interesting.  

SHOP NOW: Marigold Floral Blouse, $399 from Manning Cartell, Level 1 

Presented at the brand’s Resort 2025 show at Australian Fashion Week, this three-dimensional flower-embroidered maxi dress from Acler is one very contemporary way to lean into florals. We think it would make a very chic wedding dress, too.  

SHOP NOW: Kingsford Maxi Dress, $650 from Acler, Level 1 

This might be the chicest take on florals we’ve ever spied. A botanical print is embellished upon Scanlan Theodore’s exquisite jacquard trousers, making them as appropriate for a big presentation as they are for cocktail hour.  

SHOP NOW: French Jacquard Trouser, $1200 from Scanlan Theodore, Level 1 

If you’re setting off on a spring sojourn (but even if you’re not), this abstract floral print silk shirt from Oroton is the perfect lightweight accompaniment. Wear it over swimmers or with the matching pants for a breezy resort look. 

SHOP NOW: Zig Zag Flower Stamp Camp Shirt, $349 from Oroton, Level 1