Floral gowns by CIT Floristry students at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra

Certificate III Floristry students (SFL30115) at CIT have crafted stunning and creative floral gowns using natural materials on display to the public from 2 - 7 November at Canberra's historic Hyatt Hotel. The theme of the gowns is inspired by ecosystems and the natural environment, and the Art Deco style of the 1920s. They highlight the idea of "dreaming again" after COVID-19.

Constructed using flowers and other plant materials (branches, seeds, nuts, bark), the gowns need to look fresh for the entire 6 days of the exhibition, and need to contain at least 50% fresh floral materials.

Students Sue Smith and Joelma Silva worked together to create a gown that pays tribute to their respective families in Queensland and Brazil, who they haven't seen for some time due to COVID-19.

"Joelma and I have designed a gown with the theme of "dreaming ahead" when we can hug our families again," said Sue.

"Our families are away from us in Queensland and Brazil, and our gowns are a floral tribute to them using materials from temperate areas and coastal areas where they are from."

"Materials used include hydrangeas, magnolia leaves, paper daisies and cypress pine. The dress also includes a floral mask to acknowledge the impact of COVID-19."

"I am a retired secondary teacher, and I loved teaching, but always dreamed of being a florist. I enjoy working with flowers - they make you smile. I would like to work part time in a florist and share my designs to residents in aged care homes," Sue continued.

Teacher and organiser of the display Narelle Phillips praised the resourcefulness of the CIT students:

"We are so proud to showcase the beautiful designs and creatively of the CIT floristry students. They have cleverly combined florals and fashion to design gowns influenced by different natural environments and the Art Deco period."

"Students worked in teams and drew inspiration for their gowns from a variety of landscapes, such as alpine, rainforest, desert and the reef environments. The designs are fresh and innovative, and show how talented our CIT students are."

"The Hyatt Hotel Canberra have supported this exhibition for two years, and the historical and luxe environment in the high tea dining area gives a beautiful atmosphere and setting for the display."

"The gown designs show students' deep appreciation and respect of the natural environment. They share the value of protecting nature and Australia's unique natural wonders."

The exhibition is not just about creating beautiful designs. The skills learnt set the students up for flourishing careers in a growing creative industry and business.

Designs align with the spring season and compliment the tradition of Floriade in Canberra.
Prizes for the students include:

First Prize: High Tea for Two at the Hyatt Hotel, 2 x $120 vouchers from Koch & Co (floral sundries supplier).

Second Prize: 2 x $100 vouchers from Koch & Co, 2 x annual subscription to Flowers Magazine.

EVENT DETAILS: The designs are on display at Canberra's Hyatt Hotel from Tuesday 2 November until Sunday 7 November 2021

To learn more about studying Floristry at CIT visit our website.