The Joy of One

By Stacy Sirk, flower.style Trends Correspondent

In these fast-paced times, there is a yearning for simplicity. Although we all love a big and blousy mixed bouquet, there is a movement here in Europe to celebrate on a smaller scale.

Of the trends motivated by this mood, first up is mono-flower minimalism, which spotlights three to four stems of one variety in a clear glass vase. Next is the vase of contrasts, consisting of two to three stems (all different), with each bloom bringing its own message and personality. Now to these trends, we add the single stem.

Whether you use one vase or a tray of single stem vases grouped together, the message is all about enjoying the simplicity. Can one flower make us as happy as several? Absolutely!

Surprisingly, when there is a single flower—whether it's a cut stem, floating in a bowl or leaning in a large vessel—it seems to attract more interest than multiples. There are no competitors on the field, and you can appreciate its singular beauty.

The lone stem exhibited like a horticultural specimen can also combine with other single-stem statements to mix and match as multiples in varied containers, developing into a unique collection that works together because of the simple premise of one. Think one long-stemmed Allium, a single parrot tulip, a stem of cornflowers or a Camellia or Dahlia floating in water.

For those who buy flowers on a budget, a single flower, a line of bud vases, a tray of five—however you multiply it—allows you to instead buy little and often. The fun of going into a flower shop to purchase just a stem or two can become a weekly joy. And by swapping out flowers as they expire, your simple arrangement can continue to evolve for months, moving through glorious colors as the season cools down or heats up. Fresh water, a snip of a stem, and an addition to the group, and you’re done. Ultimately, it’s a quick and easy way to indulge in the most affordable of luxury products—cut flowers.

Stacy Sirk is our European Trends Correspondent. Based in Amsterdam, Stacy works with a global network of retailers, trade vendors, growers, and creatives in the garden and floral sectors. Store concept, visual merchandising, and styling projects keep her well connected. She is an industry insider and our eyes and ears in Europe for new ideas, opportunities, and inspiration.