Top Floral Trends NYC Event Designers Are Betting On for 2026

If you’re anything like us, you love to incorporate florals into any event. The top floral trends for 2026 are giving more modern art than simply a flower arrangement - and you’re not going to want to miss it. From gorgeous color pallets, sculptural shapes, and futuristic designs, floral setups will truly captivate in 2026. 

Here are some major trends to keep in mind as you plan jaw-dropping florals for your next event.

A mix of bold and soft color pallets. 

Think orange and fuchsia, bold colors, paired with soft neutrals like grey and taupe. For softer floral accents, consider tones like baby blue, peach, and butter yellow. 

No longer just for bouquets and vases. 

Look for displays of sculptural shapes that twist, cascade, and climb in addition to the standard bouquets and traditional floral arrangements. These unique shapes are guaranteed to leave guests talking for years to come. Traditional bouquets are getting a makeover, too. Instead of clutching flowers tied with a ribbon, opt for floral “clutches” that drape over the arm for a chic, eye-catching look. 

Freshly Picked. 

Arrangements that look like they’ve been scooped up from the meadow are also in. These loose, free-flowing arrangements can feature large, soft blooms, wildflowers, and sunflowers. Perfectly imperfect centerpieces and aisles lined with flowers will look and feel organic and effortless. 

Tropical all year. 

No matter when your event is in NYC, your floral arrangements can still be tropical. Displays and bouquets filled with typically warm-climate blooms like orchids, anthurium, bird of paradise, and tropical foliage will be a big trend for 2026. Unfortunately, the sun tan doesn’t come with it. 

Add in some non-florals. 

For some extra shimmer and unexpected details, event planners and their florists are adding in copper wire and touches of silver with beautiful vases and holders. For a more natural, non-blooming look, consider adding more texture with dried pampas grass or eucalyptus. 

Take it to the future.

Manipulating stems to make them look like something from the future is another big trend. Florists can incorporate LED lighting, wrap groups of flowers or a single stem with a fabric like silk or tulle, create a twisting floral arrangement, and make flower chains - no, not like daisy chains- for a futuristic look. 

Consider These Timeless Tips to Elevate Your Floral Designs for 2026

Be eco-conscious. 

Considering the environment and sustainability when making floral decisions is important, not just a trend. Evaluate locally sourced bloom options and consider what may be available by season to reduce the environmental impact. To minimize waste, use plants that can be reused after the event, like a potted plant, and compost blooms and plant-based elements. 

Take advantage of faux arrangements.

Faux, reusable arrangements are also a great option to reduce the environmental impact. Event planners can also invest one time in faux blooms that can be used at multiple events throughout the year, saving costs. Faux blooms can also be kept as keepsakes from the event.

Flowers continue to make a statement and add liveliness to any event, corporate or personal. Expect to see dynamic colors, sculptural elements, and a plethora of innovative event designs in 2026. Though some of these trends may eventually come and go, being environmentally friendly and faux flowers are here to stay.

Find More Floral Inspo at The Event Planner Expo 

Event planners can discover additional insights on floral trends at the 2026 Event Planner Expo, where leading NYC event planners will share forecasts and industry knowledge. Watch for upcoming announcements to drop and reserve your booth - you won’t want to miss next year’s event!