Green Carnation
THE GREEN CARNATION
The Green Carnation is a symbol historically associated with Oscar Wilde and the Aesthetic Movement of the late 19th century.
Oscar Wilde popularized the Parisian trend of wearing a green carnation as a symbol of rebellion, individualism, and a subtle code for gay identity, especially among men.
Oscar Wilde & Aestheticism: Wilde, who was known for his wit, flamboyance, and advocacy of "art for art's sake," is often linked to the green carnation.
In 1892, for the premiere of his play "Lady Windermere's Fan," Wilde had some of his male admirers wear green carnations, which symbolized aestheticism - a movement that promoted beauty and sensory experience as the highest ideals in art and life.