New Yorkers love flowers.

During the chilly months of winter, artist Will Ryman’s towering red and pink roses strewn along Park Avenue were a joyous harbinger of spring.  In February, an exuberant garden created by artist Jason Hackenwerth ran riot in the windows of Bergdorf Goodman. A stroll down the aisles of Macy’s during its annual Flower Show in April was a virtual travelogue of horticulture. And the ladies who attended the annual Frederick Law Olmsted Award Luncheon (aka The Hat Lunch) for the Central Park Conservancy were adorned in stylish fleurs.  

After a long, dark winter, many of us fantasize about wearing bouquets of color. But the leap is often hard to make (see sidebar comments).  The easiest way for your wardrobe to blossom is by wearing flowers as an accent. Just don’t overdo it. Choose only one top note and wear it strategically. The more neutral the color, the more sophisticated. Sunnier colors are more upbeat.  

BAGS: A small bag embellished with a big flower is  not for the office, but will make a simple sheath or even jeans look more feminine and festive. Kate Spade Lawn Party Bag in straw, $195

The subtle colors of a practical leather tote embellished with a garden of flowers creates an elegant summer bag that is everyday fabulous. Banana Republic’s Edition Collection, $398

SHOES: For many, clogs offer supreme comfort to our increasingly sensitive feet. The lazer-cut floral design in these clogs is subtle and lightens up the overall look. Dansko Clog, $145

Flat, strappy sandals are summer classics, made extra alluring with an added fleur. They’re more versatile when the colors don’t contrast. Leave that for toe polish. Cole Haan white gold metallic Rori Sandal, $148

This floral-embroidered mesh peep toe sling back trimmed in patent is a fashionable complement to the New York City woman’s classic black summer wardrobe. By Kate Spade, $298 at Nordstrom.

JEWELRY: Whether you prefer fab faux jewelry or the real thing, jewelry is a great way to wear florals. A bold cuff or large cocktail ring will add panache to your overall look and detract from aging hands. Floral earrings or a necklace can cast a pretty light to your face. If it’s a subtle accent, it can be worn to the office. Just don’t wear jewelry sets that match. It will make you look instantly old-fashioned.

The white stones in this floral necklace make it a great seasonal alternative to pearls. Kate Spade Fiorella, $148

The sparkle of diamond-like drop earrings beautifully frames the face. Keep in mind, the shorter your neck, the shorter your earrings should be. Nadri “Samantha” at Bloomingdale’s, $52

A hard-to-ignore decorative bracelet is not for a shrinking violet. It’s a perfect counter to wearing all black. This amethyst and turquoise collectible is designed by Iradj Moini, whose designs have been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Louvre. For more information, visit his website or his shop at 72 Thompson.

SCARVES: The scarf is the artful, but multi-faceted workhorse in a woman’s closet. Whether tied one of several ways around your neck, draped over your shoulders, looped around the handle of a bag, tied as a kerchief to keep hair in place, or worn as an arm sling, which Princess Grace (Kelly) made famous, they are an excellent way to add color, pattern and texture to whatever else you’re wearing. Above, right: Echo Floral Frenzy classic silk square scarf, $58.50 at Bloomingdale’s

You can combine function and design by caressing and covering your upper arms in an ultra-soft, lightweight artful wrap. This cashmere-and-silk voluminous scarf adds a dramatic, yet feminine, flair to every outfit from an evening dress to a tee and jeans. It can be worn in lieu of a necklace, and is also a decorative distraction from the middle part of your body. Bindya Iris Print Scarf (28"x80"), $100.99 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

An over-sized scarf is a great travel companion. It can be worn as a wrap or tied around your neck for a bold design statement. When not wearing, display it draped over the arm of a sofa. These tropical florals are worked on a thin silk gauze with frayed edges. 31" x 68" Epice Tropical Floral Shawl, $159 at Barneys New York