Pictured above, Cynara by Osborne & Little, shot at Dutch Flower Line.
There’s something ineffably romantic about an early morning sprint through New York City’s Flower District. Tucked along West 28th Street, this energetic and fragrant corridor has long been a mecca for interior designers, stylists, and creatives. Buckets overflow with ruffled ranunculus, chartreuse parrot tulips, and branches of cherry blossoms stretching skyward—each one an ephemeral muse. For me, it’s not just about blooms, it’s about fabric.
This season a wave of new floral textiles has burst forth (April showers… as it goes). From delicately block-printed and hand-embroidered linens to screen-printed silks and bold cotton chintzes, textile houses are turning to flowers not merely as motif but as mood. As florals reassert themselves this season, there’s no better place to begin than the Flower Market, where scent, texture, and color convene like a mood board in bloom. Supporting this local institution not only sustains a vital creative ecosystem, it keeps the soul of the city’s design scene alive and rooted in community. In this garden of inspiration, flowers are forever.
Sandrine by Leah O’Connell Textiles, shot at G. Page.
From left: Francesca Purple by Tulu Textiles; Frenchy by James Malone available through John Rosselli, shot at US Evergreen.
Persephone by Spring Street Textiles, shot at Dutch Flower Line.
My Favorite Sources
New York Flower Group (Dutch Flower Line)
150 W. 28th Street
This team has some of the best service and freshest blooms in every color. If you need something specific, call ahead to place an order.
28th Street Wholesale
150 W. 28th Street
Although it has the same address, this shop is next door to the New York Flower Group. They carry interesting seasonal branches and offerings, such as, in season, uncut tulips growing from the bulb.
Caribbean Cuts
120 W. 28th Street
With some of the most unique and exotic tropical plants and flowers, this is the place to go for the most interesting foliage and fruit.
US Evergreen
805 Sixth Avenue
Right around the corner, this institution takes over the street and is bursting with the best local branches. It also specializes in custom wreaths and garlands during the holidays, so place your orders early for next season.
Tropical Plants and Orchids
106 W. 28th Street
Chicly located behind the McDonald’s, I always check Tropical Plant for myrtle topiaries and indoor plants, like maiden’s hair ferns or potted orchids—they tend to have the best prices on the block. Plus, they’ll pot anything beautifully with moss.
Jamali Floral and Garden
149 W. 28th Street
The go-to source for floral supplies, basic decorative containers, and shears. Head to Jamali to grab some simple taper candles or a julep cup.
Beaton Floral by Ralph Lauren Home, available through Designers Guild, shot outside of Jamali Floral and Garden.
Protea Print by Thibaut, shot at Caribbean Cuts.
Polka by Décors Barbares for Namay Samay, available through John Rosselli, shot outside of 28th Street Wholesale.
What to Know
Go early: I recommend arriving between 5:30 and 6 a.m. for the freshest finds and best variety. You’d be surprised how crowded it is with floral designers and stylists, even at this hour.
Dress warmly: Since the temperatures inside are often quite low (for the flowers), I recommend bringing an extra layer and dressing for utilitarian purposes—Mother Nature isn’t always the cleanest.
Park on 27th Street: Street parking is free on 27th Street but only until 8 a.m. Avoid 28th Street for parking and Uber pickup, as it is always extremely crowded.
Use the shelves: The open shelves in the rear of each shop are for customers. It’s really helpful to arrange everything you’re considering buying facing outward so you can see what you have and what you’re missing.
Walk the street: I recommend starting on one side of the market and walking across 28th Street between Sixth and Seventh avenues to see who has the best of whatever is in season at the moment. Make a mental list and then go back when ready to purchase.
Bring a wagon: I am now the proud owner of a collapsible wagon. While not the most attractive item I own, it’s helpful if you’re working on a big project and don’t have an extra pair of hands.
Be respectful: Everyone working at the market is super-knowledgeable, kind, and hardworking. I’ve sadly seen some horrifying customer behavior. In a place chock-full of beauty, no one needs to make enemies.
Pansy by Marvic Textiles, shot at 28th Street Wholesale.
Hindi by Zak and Fox, shot at Dutch Flower Line.
Tara Magnolia by Lee Jofa, shot outside of Tropical Plants and Orchids.
Style assistant: Julia Stevens
