One of the most loved flowers, printed on one of our most loved dresses, tulips speak of happiness and perfect love, but its history is surprising and gives this perfectly formed flower a renewed fascination.
We all associate tulips with Holland, of course, but a surprising fact is that these delightful flowers were introduced from the exotic East to Europe. Tulips originated in present-day Kazakhstan and surrounding countries. In the sixteenth century, this area was conquered by Süleiman the First, and became heavily influenced by the Ottoman Empire. The Tulip, recognized as a special and unique flower, was taken along to Turkey where it was introduced to the gardens of the richest dignitaries. It soon played a significant role in the art and culture of that period.
Tulips are botanically related to lilies and given their name by Europeans which comes from the Persian word meaning turban, from their resemblance to the fabulous turbans worn at that time. Further, many dignatiries wore tulips tucked into their turbans as a sign of wealth and culture.
As Europeans began taking to tulips, the flower’s popularity spread quickly, particularly in the Netherlands where a phenomenon dubbed tulip mania set in at one point during the 17th century. Tulips became so highly-prized that prices were sent soaring and markets crashing. Tulips are now grown throughout the world, but people still identify cultivated varieties as “Dutch tulips".
It is a flower which is always appreciated by the receiver. A modern, elegant flower with history so deep and rich as the many colours it comes in. Red tulips meanig true love, purple, representing royalty The meaning of yellow tulips has evolved somewhat, from once representing hopeless love to now being a common expression for cheerful thoughts and sunshine. White tulips are used to claim worthiness or to send a message of forgiveness. Variegated tulips, once among the most popular varieties due to their striking color patterns, represent beautiful eyes. Pink tuips represents sweet love, which we belive sums up our gorgeous tulip dress perfectly!
