Boutonniere and Corsage: When to Wear Them
Boutonniere. Corsage. They sound formal, but they’re actually simple: small wearable flowers that make an outfit feel finished. If you’re planning a wedding, prom, or a black-tie party, knowing the difference helps you order the right pieces and avoid day-of confusion.
This guide breaks down what a boutonniere and corsage are, who usually wears each one, and when they make the most sense. For an even deeper walkthrough, see our corsage and boutonniere guide.
What is a boutonniere?
A boutonniere is a small floral piece worn on a jacket, usually on the left lapel. It can be a single bloom or a tiny cluster of flowers and greenery.
Boutonnieres are made to sit flat, face forward, and look clean in photos. They’re also designed to hold up through hugs, handshakes, and lots of movement.
Where does a boutonniere go?
A boutonniere is typically pinned to the left lapel, above the heart. If someone isn’t wearing a lapel (like a dress shirt), it can be pinned on the left side of the chest, but a jacket is the classic look.
If you want it to stay secure and sit at the right angle, follow our step-by-step guide on how to pin a boutonniere.
Who usually wears a boutonniere?
- The groom
- Groomsmen
- Fathers and stepfathers
- Grandfathers
- Sometimes ushers or other honored guests
What is a corsage?
A corsage is a wearable flower piece designed for a wrist or pinned to clothing. Like a boutonniere, it’s small, but it’s usually a bit fuller and styled to work with a dress or blouse.
Corsages are popular because they feel special without requiring someone to hold flowers all night. They’re also an easy way to honor VIPs.
Types of corsages
Most corsages fall into two main styles:
- Wrist corsage: Attached to a bracelet, worn like jewelry.
- Pin-on corsage: Pinned to the dress or blouse, usually on the left side.
Boutonniere vs. corsage: the quick difference
If you’re deciding between the two, it helps to think about placement. A boutonniere is made for a lapel. A corsage is made for a wrist or dress.
| Accessory | Typical wearer | Where it’s worn |
|---|---|---|
| Boutonniere | Men, or anyone in a suit/jacket | Left lapel |
| Corsage | Women, or anyone in a dress or blouse | Wrist or pinned to clothing |
When do you wear a boutonniere or corsage?
These floral accessories show up any time the event is formal and you want to highlight key people. The “rules” are flexible now, but tradition can still be helpful for planning.
Weddings
Weddings are the most common time to wear boutonnieres and corsages. They help the wedding party look coordinated and make family members feel honored.
Typical wedding choices include boutonnieres for the groom, groomsmen, and fathers, plus corsages for mothers and grandmothers. If you’re planning personal flowers as part of a full look, our bridal party flowers page lays out what’s usually included and how everything ties together.
Prom and homecoming
Prom is where many people first meet these terms. A common pairing is a boutonniere for one partner and a wrist corsage for the other.
For prom, comfort matters. Wrist corsages are easy to wear and usually photograph well all night. Boutonnieres should be pinned securely so they don’t tilt or droop during dancing.
Formal parties, galas, and milestone events
Corsages and boutonnieres also work beautifully for events like anniversaries, awards nights, and black-tie celebrations. They can be used to mark hosts, honorees, or special guests.
For a clean, modern look, many people choose a simple palette that matches the outfit, like white, cream, or soft blush with greenery.
How to choose the right style (without overthinking it)
Start with the outfit, the event vibe, and how long the flowers need to last. A few simple questions make the decision easier.
- Will the person wear a jacket? If yes, a boutonniere is a great fit.
- Do they want hands-free flowers? If yes, choose a wrist corsage.
- Is the fabric delicate? If yes, a wrist corsage avoids pin holes.
- Do you want it subtle? Ask for a smaller bloom and lighter greenery.
Care tips so wearable flowers look fresh longer
Wearable flowers are delicate. They do best when they stay cool and out of direct sun.
- Keep them refrigerated until it’s time to leave (avoid freezing temperatures).
- Hold boutonnieres by the stem wrap, not the bloom.
- Put corsages on last, right before photos or the ceremony.
Final takeaway
A boutonniere is a lapel flower, and a corsage is a wearable flower for the wrist or clothing. Both are simple details that make weddings, prom, and formal events feel more thoughtful and put-together, especially in photos.
If you’d like help choosing flowers that match your colors and the level of formality, contact our florists and we’ll help you plan the right boutonnieres and corsages for your event in Los Angeles.
