Judging by the lines at the florist, Galentine’s Day chatter, and heart-shaped everything, February 14 is fast approaching. But before you hit “add to cart” on that last-minute gift for y0ur sweetheart, you might want to hit pause to consider the meaning behind traditional Valentine’s Day colors like red, white, and pink.
Let us introduce you to floriography, a concept dating back to 19th-century England in which the color of the flowers you sent your special someone would convey your true feelings. The blooms that were given or worn sent coded messages ranging from love and adoration to innocence and modesty. In fact, there ended up being many books written about the meaning of florals including author Charlotte de La Tour’s Le Langage des Fleurs published in 1819.
Of course, bouquets aren’t the only way to express how you feel this Valentine’s Day. The colors of your V-Day tablescape, wreath, or cards can also send subtle messages to your loved ones. Want to know their secrets? Scroll down to find a crash course on the true meaning behind your favorite Valentine’s Day colors.
What are the Valentine’s Day colors?
Pop into any flower shop or even a festive hotel or restaurant and there’s no arguing that red, white, and pink are the official colors of Valentine’s Day. As a holiday centered around love and romance, it’s no surprise that these bold colors with their rich pasts are associated with the celebration.
What’s the meaning of the color red?
According to the Society of American Florists, red roses are the most popular flowers for Valentine’s Day, totaling 60 percent of sales. Red is the symbol of love, romance, and desire, making it the ideal color for a day with that special someone. Furthermore, in Indian and Chinese cultures, red is connected with luck and marriage, and it’s also the preferred bridal attire for weddings.
In a more literal sense, red is the color of blood that pumps through our hearts, which represents love and passion and romance. Additionally, red was the first color to be linked with Valentine’s Day at Lupercalia in Rome, an ancient pagan festival held each year on February 15. At the festivities, male goats and a dog would be sacrificed, and the blood of the animals would be wiped on the foreheads of two priests and wiped off with a wool cloth soaked in milk. They would then run around the city naked and “gently slap” women with the cloth as it was believed to increase fertility. (We’ll stick with a box of chocolates, please!)
What’s the meaning of the color white?
On a lighter note, white roses are common during Valentine’s Day. Giving your partner these snow-colored florals shows your love is pure, and since it’s a popular choice for Western weddings, it’s become a religious interpretation of eternal love, too. Plus, not only does a fresh white arrangement look lovely on any table, you shouldn’t hesitate to make the statement that your bond was made to last.
What’s the meaning of the colors red and white together?
Speaking of relationships, it’s no secret that two is better than one—and the colors red and white are frequently side by side for Valentine’s Day. This striking color combination represents unity. No matter how long you’ve been with your person, it never hurts to have a reminder through a multicolored bouquet or dessert that you’re in this together.
What’s the meaning of the color pink?
Then again, not everything about Valentine’s Day has to be so intense. Whether you just started seeing someone or you simply want to celebrate with friends or family, pink is the perfect color, as it conveys the playfulness of young love or nonromantic compassion and kindness. On top of that, remember that roses aren’t the only flowers available, consider snagging pink carnations, peonies, or tulips for a joyous touch to your home or as a gift for whomever you’re celebrating with.
Is purple a Valentine’s Day color?
The color purple is an underrated accent hue for Valentine’s Day. Instead of the conventional combos above, switch things up with this elegant and mysterious tint. It’s the way to go if you’re sending an enchanting arrangement to a secret crush or you don’t want to go overboard with your Valentine’s Day decorations. For something more understated, bring in some lavender, which evokes subtle charm and grace.
Isis Briones
Senior Shopping Editor
Isis Briones is House Beautiful’s Senior Shopping Editor, she’ll find the best items for your home at every price point. She also loves to travel, so don’t be surprised if she hooks you up with some travel deals. Find more of her work published in Complex, Architectural Digest, Teen Vogue, and more.
