Florists are true artists, and like traditional artists, they combine several aspects together to create their masterpiece. Floral experts begin with one of ten basic designs. From there, they blend the perfect mix of color, texture, and size to relay a thought or emotion. Knowing what these designs are can help you choose an arrangement particularly if you use an online florist since you can't see the arrangements in person.



1. Vertical Shape

Florists use vertically arranged flowers for side table displays and other applications that can handle the larger statement. The containers are tall and deep. Species such as roses and tulips along with soft fillers like forget-me-nots are popular for this style.

2. Horizontal

This starts with a short, wide container and a single focal point such as a rose in the center. To fill the container, smaller items are added and placed horizontally over either side of container. They can be symmetrical, or you can have varied length on both sides for an asymmetrical design. This style is most commonly used as centerpieces and window ledge decor.

3. Triangular

A popular addition to wedding decor, the florist combines aspects of the vertical and horizontal arrangement to achieve this design. Flowers are tall in the center and graduate in height and direction as you move towards the outside of the container.

4. Pyramid Design

While very similar to a triangular design, this has one main focal point and three long segments trailing from the center. Some filler around the base of the vertical portion adds weight to the floral decor. This style is unusual because of its sharp visual lines and unique shape. It is an ideal buffet table arrangement that requires some spicing up without using too much space.

5. Inverted-T

This design has identical components on two sides and filler on the front and back. The low container has a tall center set of flowers for the focal point and different species on either side. It varies, but it needs to look like an upside down 'T'.

6. L Shape

This asymmetrical design is not an easy one to create successfully, but it can have amazing effects. While making this style, the florist pays a significant amount of attention to the position of each piece in order to achieve the perfect balance.

7. Oval

This flat and circular style is seen most often on stands and tall vases. It starts with taller flowers in the center and is filled in with species of varying heights. In the very front, the floral components hang over the edge slightly.

8. Fan

Although similar to the oval, this is most notable by its 'fan' of long stemmed ingredients to give it the visual emphasis it needs. Then, the florist can add a mix of shorter varieties to fill in the space and add more interest to the piece. These are ideal for decor that will sit against the wall.

9. Dome

A dome is similar to an upside down bowl on a moderately high container. The secret to this style is to keep the flowers even and gradual regardless of what direction you set it. Some florists add large leaves, ribbons, or vines to this style to make them appear unique.

10. Crescent

Perhaps the most difficult for a florist to achieve, the crescent is similar to the L Shape in that it is all about balance. It needs to appear pleasing to the eye and similar regardless of which direction it is sat. Balance is also important for stability since both sides fall beyond the container. One benefit is that items such as candles can be used as the focal point making them great for variety.