Few flowers are as instantly recognisable as the rose. Long considered the symbol of romance, love, and luxury, it’s often seen as traditional or overly familiar.
But in today’s floral design, roses are being reimagined. Modern rose varieties now offer sculptural form, tonal variation, and texture that fit beautifully into minimal, elegant arrangements.
At Fiore Arte, we use roses not for their cliché, but for their versatility, longevity, and quiet drama. Here's a closer look at the different types of roses we work with, and how they can be styled with fresh eyes.
Reflexed Roses
What they are:
Standard roses that have been hand-manipulated so the petals curl outward, creating an open, almost peony-like form.
Why we love them:
- Sculptural and full-bodied
- Creates a luxe, editorial effect
- Excellent for bridal bouquets or modern table pieces
Styling tip:
We often reflex roses in shades of nude, blush, or sand for tonal impact in minimal arrangements.
source: https://www.davidaustin.com/blush-wedding-theme/
Garden Roses
What they are:
Heirloom-style roses with densely packed petals and a strong natural scent. Sometimes referred to as David Austin roses (a well-known breeder).
Why we love them:
- Romantic and soft, but more dynamic than standard roses
- Adds volume and movement to bouquets
- Highly photogenic
Popular colours:
Peach, dusty lavender, antique white, soft yellow
Spray Roses
What they are:
Smaller roses with multiple blooms on a single stem.
Why we love them:
- Perfect filler or accent in compact arrangements
- Adds a soft, delicate texture without overwhelming
- Great for boutonnieres or petite vases
Design use:
We love to pair these with orchids or lisianthus in hand-tied bouquets or gift arrangements.
Colombian & Ecuadorian Roses
What they are:
Premium long-stemmed roses grown in high-altitude regions, known for their symmetrical shape and long vase life.
Why we love them:
- Highly consistent in size and quality
- Available in a wide range of modern colours like taupe, dusty pink, burnt coral, and muted mocha
- Perfect for commercial styling and statement pieces
Note:
These are our go-to roses for reflexing and for clients who want elegant, photogenic designs.
Tinted & Dyed Roses
What they are:
Roses that have been artificially coloured — from powder blue to slate grey to ombré combinations.
Why we use them sparingly:
While visually striking, tinted roses are best used intentionally. We may include them in corporate arrangements or avant-garde design briefs, but we generally favour natural tones to preserve the refined aesthetic of Fiore Arte.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are roses outdated?
Only when styled traditionally. In modern design, they’re one of the most flexible blooms.
Do reflexed roses last?
Yes, when done professionally, reflexed roses can still last 5–7 days with proper hydration.
Are garden roses the same as peonies?
No, but they can look similar. Garden roses are often used as peony substitutes when peonies are out of season.
Final Thoughts: The Rose, Elevated
At Fiore Arte, we see roses not just as symbols of romance, but as design elements that adapt to modern sensibilities. Whether reflexed into sculptural form or softened in a blush garden cluster, roses remain timeless because they evolve.
Explore rose-focused arrangements at https://fiorearte.com
or reach out for a custom creation that redefines what a rose can be.