In bloom: dahlias and david austins

After an amazing run of sunny days and balmy nights, it seems Sydney’s Indian summer has drawn to a close. We’re using this dreary Sunday as an excuse to buy up big on some of our favourite flowers: dahlias and David Austin (aka English) roses. Who needs sunshine when there’s masses of vibrant blossoms brightening up a room?

Sigh-inducing David Austin roses - image via acountryfarmhouse.blogspot.com

White dahlias mage via megsplorations.tumblr.com 

Both are available in Autumn (although dahlias are here for a limited time only -  get in quick!) and there really is nothing dreamier than a vase full to bursting with these beautiful blooms.

Image via Cumming & Co

Image via countrystylechic.blogspot.com 

The beauty of dahlias and David Austins is they’re so striking that you only need a single stem in a tapered glass to set off a bedside table, or better yet, a row of single stems in mismatched vases along a mantelpiece…or a cluster on a coffee table… really, if there’s a spare surface, we say put a flower on it, stat.

Image via Fete {left} and Selina Lake {right}. 

 Image via This Is Glamorous {left} and Modern Bouquet {right} 

For floral styling ideas, we’re in love with Holly Becker (the design doyenne of decor8 fame) and Leslie Shewring's new book, Decorate with Flowers. It’s just launched in Australia – watch this space for a review!