If you have your eye on a cascading bouquet, your florist just may talk you out of it.

“The cascade is so dated,” says Lynn Jawitz of Florisan Inc. based in New York. “You'll never go wrong with a round bouquet.” Its classic shape, the floral designer says, fits all styles of weddings and looks great against the bridal silhouette.

The flower of the moment is the carnation — not in pastels but in rich jewel tones like royal purple and burgundy. Readily available and long lasting, carnations are especially attractive with roses in round bouquets.

“Roses are the ideal flower for weddings,” Jawitz says. “The colors that are coming out of South America are off-the-chart beautiful. But in terms of a unique trend, carnations are going to be huge.”

Tracy Ridout, owner of Twigs Flowers and Gifts in Omaha, says contemporary bouquets in a single color are popular for brides who want a “crisp, clean look.”

Burgundy carnations and deep red roses, for example, make a stunning statement against white, ivory, silver or champagne.

Mixed flower bouquets in bright tropical colors are knockouts, too, any time of year.

For a chic touch, incorporate ostrich feathers into your bridal florals.

Or peacock feathers, for good luck.

“Feathers are great for adding texture to a bouquet or centerpiece,” Jawitz says.

Let your wedding theme drive your choices, advises Ridout.

The only factor that may be limiting is price.

“You can pretty much have whatever you want,” she says. “It's just at what cost.”