NEW YORK—Macy's, the biggest department store in the world, is better known for its brand-named clothing, lavish leather bags, and an extensive range of cosmetics. But every year from April 1 to April 15 it transforms into a breathtaking array of exotic blossoms, dazzling colors, and unparalleled floral designs.
For 33 years, Macy's on Herald Square has hosted the country's premier flower show. Not only do the shop windows startle unsuspecting pedestrians with mannequins "dressed" in hot pink silk azalea dresses and bright yellow rose outfits, the surprise becomes more profound when one realizes that the carpet of flowers surrounding the dolls are indeed fresh.
Thousands of buds are carefully arranged to create the most exquisite sense of floral euphoria—an oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
To reflect this year's theme of "Flora Exotica," the two-week event features more than a million flowers consisting of over 30,000 species of colorful plants and trees from six different continents.
As I entered the building gerberas, orchids, tulips, plum blossoms and plenty of other exotic flowers spanned across every corner of the square foot of floor space. And as though the shop front dazzling ladies was not enough, I was greeted by two 14-foot topiary giraffes in the main retail area. Featured as part of the African garden, they were the biggest-ever exhibits displayed at the Macy's flower show.
"This year we will feature 11 specialty gardens on our main floor and two kids gardens on our 7th floor, all of which will transform Macy's into a dreamscape of brilliant color filled with exotic plants, towering trees, topiaries, and fantastic flowers," said Robin Hall, Macy's Group Vice President for Events in a press release.
The Black and White Garden showcases roses, tulips, and daffodils that are shades of dark purples, deep reds, and whites, all of which radiate simplistic beauty.
The Jardinière Garden displays an array of exotic pottery, with mini-planted bed of flowers including peonies, freesias, gardenias, and snapdragons.
And surely such a colossal effort cannot go without some of the biggest designers. Phillipe and David Blond designed six avant-garde gowns for the shop window displays, made entirely of silk flowers, while Rebecca Cole took part in designing the "Bouquet of the Day."
So while trying on some makeup or searching for that perfect leather bag, be sure to smell the roses and absorb yourself in Macy's floral spectacular.
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