I would remove the skirt from the bottom and then paint it.

Slipcovers.

Bed, Bath, & Beyond have stretchy slipcovers that give a more streamlined look than traditional slipcovers. If you're a DIYer, there are good tutorials on making great slipcovers from canvas drop-cloths, which would be my personal preference. I'm assuming you don't want to see the floral, but if you don't mind it, removing the skirt and adding some nice feet would make a big difference. Some large, very non-floral pillows would also help tone down the pattern. Mainly, you have to know the look you want to achieve.