From cherry blossoms dancing in the spring breeze to daffodils emerging with saffron petals, nothing evokes summer romance like the perfect floral look. And flowery getups always have us daydreaming about rosé under hydrangea-covered pagodas in Martha’s Vineyard and hazy late afternoon sun and peonies at Hamptons weddings...

But how to steer this into something resolutely new and now? It’s that old rule—cut against the grain (or stem in this case)! Whenever a trend or style can veer into cliche, think of its direct counterpart and add a dash of it. Patent, sleek leather, or silk accessories all around will cut against the whimsy. Pair a roomy floral skirt with a boyish white t-shirt or sweatshirt. Or match a girlie dress with masculine loafers. For tops blazing with buds, simply add in relaxed denim. 

And remember...who needs to rely on men to give us flowers? This season, shop our floral picks to give them to yourself.