International Women’s Day is the best chance to recognize and celebrate the women in your life.
Whether it’s your mother, grandmother, sister, friend, or colleague, you’re surrounded by inspiring women.
To show your appreciation, give them flowers that represent them best. Here’s a complete guide to International Women’s Day flowers.
International Women’s Day History
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a day dedicated to honoring the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world.
The first observance occurred in 1909 in New York City, where the Socialist Party of America organized a Women’s Day event.
This event was primarily focused on advocating for better working conditions and voting rights for women.
Over the years, the movement gained momentum and was recognized internationally as more countries began celebrating Women’s Day and raising awareness about women’s rights and gender equality.
In 1975, the United Nations officially marked March 8 as International Women’s Day, increasing the event’s profile and encouraging countries to promote gender equality.
International Women’s Day is celebrated with various events, seminars, and activities to empower women, raise awareness about gender issues, and inspire change toward an equal society.
International Women’s Day: Official Colors
The traditional colors associated with International Women’s Day are purple, green, and white.
These colors have been used to signify women’s rights and the fight for gender equality for over a century.
- Purple: Symbolizing dignity and justice, purple reflects the resilience and courage of women who have fought for their rights throughout history.
- Green: Representing hope, green embodies the optimism and aspirations for a better future for women and girls worldwide.
- White: Standing for purity, white serves as a reminder of innocence and unity that transcends social and cultural barriers.
These colors are often incorporated into International Women’s Day events, campaigns, and flower arrangements to honor and celebrate women’s achievements.
Why is mimosa given on Women’s Day?
The mimosa flower is widely recognized as the official flower of International Women’s Day.
The tradition of giving mimosa flowers to women on this day began in Italy in the 1940s as a symbol of support and appreciation for their contributions to society.
The bright yellow blossoms represent strength, resilience, and women’s beauty—qualities celebrated on International Women’s Day.
Mimosas are often given as a gesture of solidarity and are commonly used in floral arrangements, bouquets, and corsages to celebrate women’s achievements and express gratitude on this special day.
Their vibrant color and delicate fragrance have made them popular, conveying a message of hope and recognition for the countless women who have made a difference in the world.
In addition to the mimosa flower, other popular flowers for International Women’s Day include roses, tulips, and lilies, often chosen for their symbolism and beauty.
Whether you opt for the traditional mimosa or another flower, incorporating floral elements into International Women’s Day celebrations is a meaningful way to honor the women in your life and acknowledge their accomplishments.
Choosing the Best Flower for International Women’s Day
Can’t decide which flower to gift on International Women’s Day? Here are some of the most popular flowers for this occasion, their symbolic meanings, and who they are best suited to:
Roses
Roses are a classic choice for International Women’s Day.
Red roses represent love, while pink roses represent admiration and appreciation. Yellow roses symbolize friendship and joy.
Best for: Roses are great for anyone special, like your partner, mother, or sister.
Tulips
Pink tulips represent happiness and confidence, while red tulips symbolize love. White tulips represent forgiveness and purity.
Best for: Tulips are a great gift for female friends, colleagues, or acquaintances.
Lilies
Lilies are known for their beauty and elegance.
They come in various colors, including pink, yellow, and white.
Pink lilies represent prosperity and happiness, while white lilies symbolize purity and virtue.
Best for: Lilies are an excellent gift for mothers, grandmothers, and female relatives.
Daisies
Daisies are simple yet beautiful flowers that are perfect for International Women’s Day.
They represent purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
Best for: Give daisies to your female friends, colleagues, or acquaintances.
Carnation
Carnations are a classic and affordable flower option with various colors.
Red carnations represent love and admiration, while pink carnations symbolize gratitude and appreciation.
White carnations represent purity and luck.
Best for: Carnations are for anyone, but they are especially well-suited and grandmothers.
Orchids
Orchids are stunning and elegant flowers that come in various colors.
Pink orchids represent love and affection, while purple orchids symbolize respect.
White orchids represent purity and innocence.
Best for: Orchids are a great choice for friends, coworkers, or acquaintances who like things that are classy and expensive.
Sunflower
Sunflowers are cheerful and bright flowers that symbolize happiness, loyalty, and longevity.
They come in different shades of yellow and are associated with positivity and optimism.
Best for: Sunflowers are great for daughters, sisters, or friends who love bright and cheerful flowers.
Gift Ideas for International Women’s Day
While flowers are thoughtful and beautiful gifts, you can make them even more special by combining them with other thoughtful presents.
Here are some International Women’s Day gift ideas that complement your flower gift:
- Personalized Gifts: Custom jewelry, engraved plaques, or photo frames with a special message or photo are all great options.
Personalized gifts can be a wonderful way to show the special women in your life how much you appreciate them.
- Gift Baskets: Gift baskets filled with flowers and treats like chocolates, cookies, and gourmet snacks are an excellent way to pamper the women in your life.
- Books: Books written by influential women or on women’s empowerment topics can make an excellent gift.
To add a feminine touch, add a floral bookmark to it. You can also choose a book that aligns with the recipient’s interests or one you think they will enjoy.
- Spa Day: A spa day is a great way to pamper the special women in your life.
You can give them a gift certificate to a local spa or create a DIY spa day at home with roses, face masks, scented candles, and relaxing music.
Combine flowers with other thoughtful presents to make the gift even more special and show the women in your life how much you appreciate them on this International Women’s Day.
