Lace Flower Dress
Designer Creation

The floral dress is everywhere so much so that it seems like it’s always been around. But when did it first appear?

It is commonly believed that the flowered garment originated in China and dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907)! Imported from China via the Silk Road, these garments were mostly decorated with floral motifs such as peonies. These luxurious fabrics were only available to the wealthy classes of Europe! 

It then gained popularity in the 16th century with Venetian lace.  

Between the 16th and 18th centuries, patterns developed on heavier fabrics. Indeed other countries such as Persia and India participated in the craze for the floral pattern with the trade of beautiful dresses with exotic charm.  

On heavy fabrics, it was not until the 18th century with the luxurious brocade that French and Italian artisans integrated flowers into their confections. The motifs in vogue were European flowers such as the rose, the daisy and the carnation. As with fabrics from the East, this silk fabric adorned with gold and silver motifs was only available to the wealthy.   

Since the 20th century, the flowered garment has been appreciated worldwide! Evocative of fertility and spring, refined, beautiful, enchanting and fragrant, the flower is one of the most worn designs by women around the world.