Like most people who grew up in the ’80s, I have a bias against fake flowers. I don’t think I ever saw one that wasn’t dusty and depressing—until now. I recently received an email from Bloomist, an online store that opened last year, announcing the launch of their new collection of eco-minded faux flowers. These faux pieces are so artful and au courant that I would happily welcome them into my home.
The store, founded by Michael Zung and Alex Bates, reflects the two’s interests (N.B.: and ours too!): natural beauty and skilled craftsmanship. This translates to an inventory that’s anchored by botanicals (both of the dried and faux variety) and heavy on artisan-made wares (think cashmere throws made by weavers in Mongolia, pottery by graphic designer-turned-ceramicist Bob Dinetz, decorative oversized wood chains by craftsmen in the Honduras). Bloomist is a wonderful intersection of their design-minded priorities and makes for an inspired shopping experience.
Now back to Bloomist’s fake flowers. Not only are they painterly and beautiful to look at, but they’re also eco-friendly and responsibly sourced. “Our goal is to replace virgin and petroleum-based plastics with upcycled fabrics and recycled materials,” says Alex. “We want to be part of the solution, instead of perpetuating the problem. That’s why we choose to use environmentally sensitive materials and processes. We’re not 100 percent there yet, but we are dedicated to making realistic, beautiful faux botanicals that break free of the petrochemical cycle.”
Have a look at some of their new eco-faux offerings.
Photography courtesy of Bloomist.
Above: Bloomist’s faux botanicals were designed in collaboration with NYC-based stylist Hilary Robertson. Here, a mix of Faux Heirloom Rose Stems; each 19-inch stem is $22, and 36-inch stem is $28. The bouquet is in the Pistachio Pitcher by Bob Dinetz; $168.
Above: The Faux Juniper Berry Crescent Wreath “is constructed on a natural willow vine base and features natural pinecones mixed with faux berries made of biodegradable paper maché.” It’s currently on sale for $62.
Above: Faux Magnolia Campbelli Medium Branches ($28 each) and Faux Magnolia Leaf Branches ($24 each).
Above: A faux magnolia stem, up close. “Our flowers illustrate how there is beauty in all phases of nature. Faded blooms, bug holes, realistic textures and forms. They are perfectly imperfect, like nature,” says Alex.
Above: Faux Black Barlow Stems are $18 each.
For more Gardenista-approved faux flowers, see: