Floriography, also known as the language of flowers, is a practice that assigns meanings to different flowers. For example, the Bleeding Heart flower is said to indicate whether love is reciprocated based on the color of its juice when crushed. Similarly, the mythology surrounding ferns suggests that finding their seeds could grant the power of invisibility. In Tunisia, jasmine flowers are used as a social signal to indicate one’s relationship status. These interpretations of flowers add layers of meaning and symbolism to their presence in various contexts.
In preparation for the 2024 Met Gala’s Garden of Time dress code, which featured hundreds of flowers with assorted interpretations, the assistance of floriography expert Karen Azoulay was sought. Azoulay, author of Flowers and Their Meanings and creator of the Instagram account @flowersmeanings, possesses a deep understanding of botanical symbolism. By analyzing the possible meanings embedded in the floral elements of the event, Azoulay sheds light on the subtle subtexts and messages conveyed through the choice of flowers. While it remains uncertain whether the designers were conscious of these meanings, the presence of flowers at the gala offers a rich canvas for interpretation.
During the Met Gala, Jack Harlow was seen wearing a lily-of-the-valley brooch from Dior, a choice that resonated with Azoulay’s insights. The lily of the valley is often associated with the concept of a “return of happiness,” suggesting a hopeful and positive sentiment. This selection of a particular flower by a prominent figure like Harlow underscores the intentional use of floriography as a means of expression. The significance attributed to the lily of the valley in this context adds depth and significance to the garment worn by Harlow, contributing to the overall narrative of the evening.
Floriography serves as a tool for communication and expression, allowing individuals to convey complex emotions and messages through the language of flowers. The historical and cultural associations attached to different blooms provide a framework for understanding and interpreting their symbolism. By incorporating flowers into events like the Met Gala, participants engage in a dialogue that transcends words, using botanical elements to enhance and enrich their aesthetic choices. The interplay between fashion, art, and nature at such gatherings creates a captivating tapestry of meanings and interpretations, inviting viewers to delve into the underlying significance of floral motifs.
Through the lens of floriography, the garden-themed attire at the Met Gala offers a nuanced exploration of symbolism and meaning. By delving into the historical connotations and traditional interpretations of various flowers, experts like Azoulay illuminate the layers of significance embedded in floral arrangements and accessories. The presence of flowers at events like the Met Gala not only adds visual interest but also deepens the narrative and emotional resonance of the outfits worn by attendees. This fusion of fashion and nature underscores the timeless allure of floriography as a means of storytelling and expression, transcending barriers of language and culture.
In conclusion, the language of flowers, or floriography, enriches the aesthetic landscape of events like the 2024 Met Gala, offering a wealth of meanings and interpretations for participants and observers alike. By drawing on historical traditions and cultural associations, experts like Karen Azoulay shed light on the diverse symbolism embedded in floral motifs and accessories. Through intentional choices like wearing a lily-of-the-valley brooch, individuals like Jack Harlow engage in a dialogue with the past, infusing their attire with layers of meaning and significance. The use of flowers as a form of communication and expression adds depth and complexity to fashion choices, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and messages at events that celebrate the intersection of art, nature, and creativity.
