Anyone who remembers photosynthesis from school biology lessons will know that most flowers require sunshine to grow. But not the fauna that's exploded on to the high street this season...

Fashion has defied science with a new spin on florals to match the mood of the season –  think dark Gothic blooms, glitzy embellished buds and touchable textured petals. In short, it’s anything but a bright and breezy summer print.

You can flower from head to toe, or carry the equivalent of a wardrobe bouquet with a floral clutch. Just make sure you’re engaging in some serious flower power this winter.

GOTHIC BLOOMS

Prints are the most obvious way to work florals but there’s a vital difference between summer and winter prints – the backdrop. Banish ivory, cream, white or bright base shades for a dominant dark colour like black, navy or indigo.

If patterns are your thing, tactical clashes make a bold statement. The high street has lots of Givenchy-inspired florals set against check backgrounds to tick off two trends in one.

For something more abstract, look to dark, painterly blooms that resemble clusters of petals swirling in a wintry storm.

TEXTURED PETALS

Add interest to your winter fashion bouquet with tactile fabrics. Jacquard and velvet florals look especially beautiful in opulent berry tones like claret and burgundy for a ladylike look, while brocade is best suited to metallic tones like gold or bronze.

Add some garden glamour to party frocks with intricate embroidery. Blooms sprawled over black lace evoke an instant Gothic feel, but you can go colourful with embroidered florals in a similar tone for an elegant look.

Black leather staples have moved on a step with florals embossed onto dresses and skirts.

EMBELLISHED BUDS

Real-life flowers may be beautiful but they can’t sparkle like the fashion variety.

Sequins styled in the form of flowers are freshening up dresses and jackets for the party season. For a stripped-back version, opt for classic black with shimmering metallic blooms.

Appliqued flowers are instant talking points, but they can be daywear appropriate too if you opt for 3D buds in dark, matte fabrics that cling to tees or sweaters.

BOUQUET ADDITIONS

Floral finishing touches can give a bland outfit some fauna flair.

If your outfit lacks texture, try a necklace featuring 3D blooms to bring your dress or top to life. The same theory applies to rings and bracelets, but one extravagant floral jewellery piece is enough – think single statement stem, rather than overgrown flower bed.

A clutch bag in a floral print can instantly liven up a plain ensemble.

Floral footwear in an all-over print is a big statement, so keep the rest of your outfit pared back. If you just want a subtle flowery flash, look for shoes featuring an embellished bud or a petal-printed heel or sole.