One of fashion’s most timeless inspirations, representations of flowers have appeared throughout the centuries to symbolize an assortment of expressions. From spring cherry blossoms as an awakening of new life and new beginnings to the fall-blooming chrysanthemum which symbolizes joy and happiness, floral motifs have been incorporated into textiles and footwear across the globe.  Until the 19th century, most of these textiles were dyed using plant-based materials. Materials such as wood, cotton, cork, and grass have also been used to create shoes. Depending on the time and place, the language of flowers has held many unique interpretations. In Bloom: Flowers and Footwear explores the inspiration that nature has provided as a source of meaning and material for shoemaking across the ages.