Fresh flowers are beautiful, but they don’t last. Within a few days, even the most elegant bouquet begins to wilt, brown and droop. Keeping them looking good requires constant care, regular replacement and ongoing costs. On the other hand, many artificial flowers fall short when it comes to realism. They may last longer, but stiff plastic petals and overly bright colours often look anything but natural.

That’s where real touch flowers offer a welcome alternative. These premium faux florals are carefully designed to replicate both the look and feel of fresh flowers. They provide the beauty of nature, but without the maintenance, allergies or short shelf life. Ideal for high-end interiors, long-term displays, or anyone who loves flowers but not the fuss, real touch flowers combine aesthetic impact with lasting value.

In this guide, we take a closer look at what sets real touch flowers apart, where they work best, and why more designers and homeowners are choosing them over traditional options.

Artificial flowers of the past

While traditional artificial flowers offer a more convenient, low-maintenance option, they often fall short when it comes to realism. Many were made from low-cost materials like plastic or polyester, which tend to produce:

• Glossy or unnatural finishes
• Rigid, unrealistic petal shapes
• Colours not typically found in nature

For settings where detail and quality matter, these traditional faux flowers rarely hold up to scrutiny and give faux flowers their bad name.

What makes real touch flowers different?

Real touch flowers are designed to solve this exact problem. Sometimes called latex or soft-touch flowers, they are made using high-quality materials like latex, poly-silk blends or polyurethane. These materials allow for natural flexibility, subtle surface texture and realistic weight.

Manufacturers often use moulds taken from real flower petals and stems, capturing the tiny details that give a bloom its lifelike appearance. Veining, gentle curves and realistic colour gradients are all part of the final product. The result is a flower that not only looks incredibly close to the real thing, but also feels soft and natural to the touch.

Real touch vs standard faux: what’s the difference?

	Real Touch Flowers	Standard Faux Flowers
Material	Latex, poly-silk, PU	Polyester, plastic
Texture	Soft and natural	Stiff and artificial
Visual Realism	High	Medium to low
Durability	High	Medium
Maintenance	Minimal	Minimal
Initial Cost	Higher	Lower

While real touch flowers typically come at a higher upfront cost, they offer far greater realism and stay looking perfect for years. For those wanting quality over quantity, they’re a worthwhile investment.

Where real touch flowers really shine

Real touch flowers are a versatile decor solution. Their realistic appearance and durability make them suitable for a wide range of environments, from professional spaces to personal ones.

Corporate offices and reception areas

We all love the idea of a green, lively home, but taking care of real plants isn’t always easy. Maybe you travel often, live in a space with little sunlight, or just don’t have time to water aIn business settings, it’s important to create a welcoming and professional atmosphere.

A well-placed real touch arrangement adds polish to reception desks, boardrooms or waiting areas, helping to make a strong first impression.

Try this: Orchids or white lilies in neutral tones for a clean, sophisticated look.

Hospitality and wellness spaces

Restaurants, hotels, spas and salons all benefit from calm, considered decor. Real touch flowers are an excellent way to bring in natural elements that last, without the ongoing cost or maintenance of fresh arrangements.

Try this: Eucalyptus sprays, soft proteas or mixed greens for a relaxed, organic feel.

Show homes and property staging

When styling a home for sale, the details matter. Real touch flowers add colour and warmth while photographing beautifully. They also stay fresh-looking during long viewing periods, which can stretch over weeks or months.

Try this: Full arrangements of roses or hydrangeas for a polished, luxurious touch.

Residential interiors

For homeowners who enjoy the beauty of flowers but not the work of keeping them alive, real touch options are a smart solution. They’re also suitable for those with allergies to pollen or who prefer scent-free alternatives.

Try this: Classic magnolias or soft peonies in a statement vase on a dining table or mantle.

Events and weddings

Real touch flowers are becoming more popular for weddings and special events. Unlike fresh flowers, they don’t wilt under hot lights or travel badly, and they can be kept as a lasting reminder long after the day has passed.

Try this: Read our post on why you should consider using silk flowers for your wedding for ideas.

How to care for real touch flowers

Looking after real touch flowers is easy. A quick clean every so often is all it takes to keep them looking their best:

• Dust them regularly with a feather duster or soft cloth
• Wipe gently with a damp cloth to remove any build-up
• Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent fading
• Store carefully if rotating for seasonal decor

For more tips, visit our full guide on how to clean artificial plants.

Choosing the right supplier

Not all real touch flowers are made to the same standard. Some budget versions may still have visible seams or colours that look slightly off. It’s worth sourcing from a trusted supplier known for premium-quality products and attention to detail.

At Silk by Design, we specialise in lifelike artificial flowers, arrangements and greenery for both residential and commercial use. Our range of real touch flowers is carefully selected for maximum realism, long-lasting quality and visual impact.

How to care for real touch flowers

We appreciate you taking the time to learn about the real touch flowers and how they offer the perfect middle ground between short-lived fresh arrangements and unconvincing plastic alternatives. They deliver the aesthetic benefits of real blooms without the stress of ongoing care. 

With high visual impact, tactile authenticity and long-term durability, they’re well suited to professional environments, events, and homes that value style and simplicity.If you’re looking for low-maintenance floral arrangements that still feel luxurious, real touch flowers are the ideal choice. Explore our full collection to find flower stems and real touch flower arrangements that suit your space, your style and your needs.