Is Floral Fashion Show Hottest Ticket in Chicago?

Floral gowns and headpieces will take over the Garfield Park Conservatory at the annual Fleurotica fashion show Thursday night.

Sold out in minutes, Fleurotica brings together florists, designers, and models.

Pullman wedding florist Brittney Kee told Hey Chicago she first learned about the event in Essence magazine more than a decade ago and vowed she would one day participate. Since then, she’s been part of Fleurotica four times, building her floral looks on everything from chicken wire to petticoats.

“When I'm with brides, I have to do what the client wants, and it's a lot of pressure. … [Fleurotica] is really the only event I swear that I look forward to every year because I'm like, ‘oh God, it's my time to breathe,’” she said.

Inspired by a moody color palette from the last wedding she worked, Kee said her dress this year will be sleek with a long train and hood and feature a mix of vines, ivy, tea leaves, roses, and orchids.

But other designers have other inspirations: Kee recalls memorable looks made out of vegetables and others that resembled a peacock and a dragon.

In its 15th year, Fleurotica is also a fundraiser for the conservatory, another reason Kee is excited to be in the show.

Didn’t score tickets? Tune into the livestream at 7:15 p.m.