Joy in bloom: the secret to summer bliss is in your own backyard

Natural Health, June, 2004 by Elizabeth Barker

Creating a garden, according to landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy, means fulfilling a longing "for nature for beauty, for self-expression, and for the simple act of growing, both within oneself and on one's land." In gardening, we can invent our own beautiful world, a miniature paradise that gives abundant joy to everyone who visits. Why limit that loveliness to a small plot of earth? Let your summer wardrobe Blossom with glorious colors, delicate textures and exquisite patterns. Here are dazzling, freshly picked pieces inspire you.

sea of flowers

For anyone enraptured by all things oceanic and botanic, an intense-blue, petal-adorned dress makes for dreamy attire. Dive deeper into the ocean-garden motif by donning flower-shaped aquamarine and pearl rings. Ruffled teal dress by Sue Wong ($195), flower ling with aquamarines ($985) and flower ring with pearls ($1,150) by Heidi Abra.

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romantic notions

The conventionally amorous colors for flowers are red and hot pink. But a softer shade inspires a melody no less heartsmitten. By coupling this rose-bedecked top with a garland of flowers and amethysts, you can invite butterflies and serenades alike. Ruffled pink top by Aqua ($48), garland by Melinda Ann Farrell ($275).

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flower power

Embrace your ironer flower child with a billowy blouse and lightweight jeans, the ideal combo for lingering in the garden shade. To truly capture the retro look, offset the top's psychedelic pattern by tucking an eye--catching blossom behind your ear. Cheng blouse by Diesel ($89), Mary J trousers by Miss Sixty ($139), Flora sandals by Charles

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summer fling

Due to an ardent distaste for the heat, many poppies are gone by midsummer after briefly but brashly flaunting their vibrant hues. This floral-print blouse sustains the poppy's show-off spirit, perfectly complementing muslin pants in sunshine yellow. Printed blouse by Trina Turk ($128), muslin drawstring pants by Laura Urbinati ($163), dragonfly ornament by Heidi Abra ($19).

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darling buds

Choose burst of bright color and layers of lush fabric to create full-bloom style. For a functional version of a fresh bouquet, match flowery quartz ajd topaz earings with this one-of-a-kind silk-rose handbag. Scarf tube top by Shakti ($175), asymmetrical skirt by Marina Babini ($230), handmade earings by Melinda Ana Farrell ($175), flower purse by Lauren Scherr (285).

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