Different Types of Wedding Bouquets: A guide on shapes & Styles
Wedding bouquet styles are diverse, ranging from the classic round bouquet to modern arrangements like cascading and asymmetrical arrangements. Popular options include hand-tied, posy, nosegay, and cascade bouquets, along with unique styles like pomanders and composite bouquets.
Choosing the right wedding bouquet is crucial as it complements not only the bridal style but also should fit the theme. A variety of wedding bouquet shapes and styles, from classic round bouquets to modern styles like cascading or asymmetrical arrangement and flower combinations, are available, making it important to understand options to align with your vision. The guide explores 12 popular types of wedding bouquets, detailing sizes, suitable flower types, and their fit within various wedding aesthetics.
Classic and Traditional Bouquet Styles
1. Round Bouquet
It is also known as a classic or traditional bouquet, is characterized by its symmetrical, dome-like shape.
- It’s popular for weddings and formal events due to its neat appearance. While typically symmetrical and monochromatic, round bouquets can also feature asymmetry and a variety of colours.
- Variations include the Biedermeier style with concentric circles of flowers and pomanders, which are spherical bouquets with handles.
Ideal for: Elegant, contemporary weddings
Why it works: Offers a neat, symmetrical look that pairs well with structured gowns.
2. Cascade Bouquet
Cascade bouquet, also known as a waterfall bouquet, is a floral arrangement in which flowers and greenery are arranged to flow downwards, creating a trailing effect. The bouquet typically starts with a rounded base of flowers and gradually tapers down, often with trailing elements like vines or greenery, resembling a waterfall.
Ideal for: Formal weddings and dramatic bridal looks, especially when paired with long gowns or vintage-inspired themes.
Why it works: Adds drama and elegance—perfect for elaborate gowns.
3. Pomander Bouquet
A pomander bouquet is a spherical or ball-shaped flower arrangement, often used in weddings or as a flower girl’s bouquet. It’s characterized by its round shape and may be held by a ribbon handle, worn on the wrist, and is often used by bridesmaids.
Ideal for: Fairytale or whimsical weddings
Why it works: Great for flower girls or themed ceremonies.
4. Biedermeier Bouquet:
- This style originated in Switzerland in the 1800s, but it has seen a resurgence in popularity recently. This style features concentric circles of blooms, often in a single color. A Biedermeier bouquet is a type of floral arrangement characterized by its tightly packed, concentric rings of flowers, typically arranged in circular or conical shapes. Each ring features a different type of flower, creating a visually striking and elegant effect.
- Flowers in adjacent rings are typically chosen to contrast in color, form, and texture, further enhancing the visual interest.
Ideal for: Creative weddings, it can also be adapted for modern, romantic, or whimsical themes
Why it works: Structured yet unique—adds depth and detail
Modern & Unique Style Bridal Bouquets
1. Hand-Tied Bouquet:
A hand-tied bouquet is a floral arrangement in which individual flower stems are gathered and tied by hand. It has a natural and rustic appearance and can be used in vases or as a ceremonial bouquet, often seen in weddings and quinceañeras.
This bouquet style emphasizes a relaxed, organic look rather than a structured arrangement with floral foam.
Why it works: Easy to make or customize, even for DIY enthusiasts
2. Posy/Nosegay Bouquet:
A posy or nosegay bouquet is a small, handheld floral arrangement, often round and designed to be held comfortably in one hand. It typically includes a variety of flowers, herbs, and greenery and may be embellished with ribbon or lace.
- These bouquets are often minimalist, featuring smaller blooms and greenery.
- Posies are generally smaller than other bouquets
Why it works? : Compact, hand-tied design offers elegance, ease of carrying, and timeless appeal for any wedding style.
3. Garden-Style Bouquet
A garden-style bouquet resembles a freshly picked bunch of flowers, featuring a loose arrangement. They have a natural, unstructured look, with flowers and foliage arranged in a way that mimics how they grow in a garden
- Some garden-style bouquets have a cascading design, with flowers spilling over the container.
- They are often hand-tied, with florists layering and criss-crossing the stems directly in their hands.
Why it works? The loose, organic arrangement creates a natural, romantic look that complements rustic, outdoor, or boho wedding themes
4. Free-Form Bouquet
A Free-Form bouquet is a large, oversized wedding bouquet that’s arranged in a loosely, unstructured way, often with a garden-picked look and feel.
Why it works?: This style offers endless possibilities, allowing for creativity and individuality.
Other Wedding Bouquet Styles
1. Long-Stemmed Bouquet:
- A long-stemmed bouquet features stems that are typically 18-24 inches or longer. These bouquets are known for their elegant and dramatic appearance and are popular for romantic gestures and special occasions. While roses are commonly associated with long stems, other flowers like lilies, sunflowers, and delphiniums can also have them.
- This style can be a good option for brides who prefer a more elongated look.
2. Pageant/Presentation Bouquet:
A long-stemmed bouquet designed to be held in the crook of the arm, allowing the flowers to drape elegantly. The stem is long, with the flower cluster near the elbow, creating a flowing, sometimes romantic, presentation.
