



HERITAGE COLLECTION and FLORIOGRAPHY
The tradition of Floriography has roots in various cultures, including the Ottoman Empire, where it was known as “selam.” Today, Floriography is still appreciated for its historical and cultural significance, and many people enjoy learning about the meanings behind different flowers.
Floriography, is a fascinating form of communication where different flowers and their arrangements convey specific messages and emotions. Although this practice dates back thousands of years it was particularly popular during the Victorian era. In Victorian times, people used flowers to express feelings that couldn’t be spoken aloud in polite society. Each flower, and even its colour, had a specific meaning. For example, red roses symbolized love and passion, while white lilies represented purity and virtue.
19th-century floral fashion was much more than a mere bouquet. 'Floriography,' allowed individuals to express feelings unspoken in Victorian society. Pale pinks, lilacs, and blues were common hues, reflecting the modest palette available at the time. Roses, hyacinths, and cornflowers were popular choices, each selected for their symbolic significance.
Pale pinks, lilacs, and blues were common hues, reflecting the modest palette available at the time. Roses, hyacinths, and cornflowers were popular choices, each selected for their symbolic significance.
Flowers could convey messages of love, devotion, or even secret dislike, with flowers like lavender hinting at distrust, and anemones suggesting sickness.
In addition to central roses, hyacinths, and cornflowers that were staples of the Victorian posy, other blooms commonly used included dianthus, also known as carnations, which symbolized fascination and distinction. Chrysanthemums, with their wide range of colours and meanings, were also favoured, often representing joy and optimism. Iris, symbolising wisdom and valour, and tulips, associated with deep love, were other popular choices.
The fusion of Bergamot and Vetiver in perfumery is a dance of contrasts that harmonizes beautifully. Bergamot, with its light citrusy notes, brings a fresh and uplifting zing, often used as a top note to greet the senses. Vetiver, on the other hand, is earthy and deep, providing a smoky, woody base that grounds a fragrance.
When combined, these two create a scent profile that is both invigorating and comforting, evoking a sense of crisp greenery and the warmth of the earth. This combination is versatile, finding its way into fragrances that are marketed as masculine, feminine, or unisex. It's a classic duo that appeals to a wide range of preferences, embodying a balance between the freshness of the outdoors and the complexity of woodsy depth. Whether in a simple blend or a sophisticated composition with other notes, Bergamot and Vetiver together offer a timeless olfactory experience.
The fragrance of English bluebells is often described as sweet and musky, with hints of honey and vanilla. It evokes memories of long walks in the woods and the arrival of warmer days1. When you stand in a bluebell wood, close your eyes, and breathe in, you’ll experience a delicate, green-floral haze. This fragrance combines citrusy bergamot and jammy black currant notes with peony, lily of the valley, jasmine, and crisp English bluebell, creating a captivating bouquet.
Violets have a unique and captivating fragrance that is often described as sweet, powdery, and delicate. The scent is both floral and slightly fruity, with hints of green and woody notes. Some people also detect a fresh, aquatic hint from the violet leaves. The smell of violets carries a rich tapestry of meanings and symbolism. Traditionally, the sweet and delicate fragrance of violets is associated with love, passion, and desire. This connection to romance and affection makes violets a popular choice for expressing tender emotions. Additionally, violets symbolize modesty and humility. Their small, unobtrusive blooms and gentle scent convey a sense of understated beauty and grace. The scent of violets can also evoke feelings of nostalgia and tranquility, often reminding people of people they have loved in their past. Interestingly, violets contain a compound called ionone, which can temporarily desensitize our sense of smell, making the scent seem to disappear after a few moments. This adds to the mysterious and elusive nature of their fragrance.
Peonies are often associated with romance, prosperity, and good fortune. They symbolise a happy marriage and are frequently used in wedding bouquets and decorations. Additionally, peonies can represent compassion, honour, and bashfulness. Their lush, full blooms convey a sense of abundance and beauty.
Freesias symbolize innocence, friendship, and thoughtfulness. In the Victorian era, they were also used to convey secret messages, adding an element of mystery and intrigue. Freesias are often associated with trust and loyalty, making them a meaningful gift for close friends and loved ones. The combination of peonies and freesias in a bouquet could convey a message of romantic love, trust, and deep friendship, making it a perfect choice for Orange flowers generally symbolize enthusiasm, excitement, and warmth. They are often used to convey messages of congratulations, good cheer, and optimism. In some contexts, orange flowers can also represent passion and desire. Geraniums, on the other hand, have a more nuanced meaning. They can symbolize stupidity or folly, but they are also associated with comfort and gentility. The specific meaning can vary depending on the context and the type of geranium. Combining orange with geraniums in a bouquet creates a complex message, blending enthusiasm and warmth with a touch of comfort and gentility, expressing heartfelt emotions.



