What Is a Boutonniere and Corsage and When Do You Wear Them
So, you’re planning a special event and the terms “boutonniere” and “corsage” keep popping up. Let’s clear up any confusion right away. These aren’t just fancy French words; they’re the finishing touches that tie an entire look together.
Think of a boutonniere as a single, perfect floral accent—one bloom or a tiny cluster—worn by men on the lapel of a jacket. In contrast, a corsage is a more elaborate floral arrangement, designed for women to wear on their wrist or pinned to their dress. They’re the final, artful brushstrokes on your formal attire.
Defining These Timeless Floral Accessories
While they both bring a touch of natural elegance to a formal outfit, boutonnieres and corsages play very different roles shaped by tradition, design, and where they’re worn. Getting to know them helps you appreciate why they’re so essential for celebrations like weddings, proms, and galas.
A boutonniere, which literally comes from the French for “buttonhole flower,” is all about subtle sophistication. Traditionally, it’s a single, classic flower like a rose or carnation, paired with just a whisper of greenery. It’s meant to be an understated detail, adding a pop of personality without ever stealing the show from a great suit or tux.
A corsage, on the other hand, is designed to be a beautiful focal point. It’s usually a larger, more intricate creation featuring a collection of blooms, delicate ribbons, and foliage. Whether it’s worn on the wrist, pinned to the shoulder, or even attached to a handbag, its job is to be a standout accessory that beautifully complements a gown and ties into the event’s floral story.
Boutonniere vs Corsage At a Glance
To make it even simpler, here’s a quick side-by-side look at what sets these two floral pieces apart. This little cheat sheet will help you instantly see the difference and understand each one’s role.
| Attribute | Boutonniere | Corsage |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Wearer | Men (Groom, Groomsmen, Fathers) | Women (Mothers, Grandmothers, Dates) |
| Placement | Pinned to the left lapel of a jacket | Worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress |
| Size & Style | Small, simple, often a single bloom | Larger, more intricate floral arrangement |
| Primary Purpose | A subtle accent to a suit or tuxedo | A complementary statement accessory |
At the end of the day, a boutonniere acts as a tasteful nod to the event’s flowers, while the corsage is a more prominent piece of wearable art. But both serve the same wonderful purpose: to honor the most important people at your celebration and create a polished, cohesive look for an unforgettable day.
The Stories Behind These Floral Traditions
These beautiful floral accessories we know and love today carry centuries of stories with them. They’ve evolved quite a bit, from ancient protective symbols to the cherished keepsakes from a wedding or prom night. Their journey didn’t start in fancy ballrooms but in ancient civilizations, where flowers were used for much more than just decoration.
Long before they became a staple of formalwear, the earliest versions of what we’d now call a boutonniere or corsage started showing up thousands of years ago. We can trace the boutonniere’s lineage all the way back to ancient Egypt and the Aztecs, while the first corsages bloomed in ancient Greece.
For instance, Egyptian and Aztec spectators would wear colored flowers to sporting events to show who they were rooting for. In ancient Greece, brides wore fragrant floral arrangements not just for their beauty, but because they believed the scents could ward off evil spirits. It was beauty with a purpose.
From Battlefields to Ballrooms
This idea of wearing a symbolic token carried right on into medieval Europe. Knights would often wear their lady’s colors or a flower she had given them as a sign of her affection and his loyalty. Tucked into his armor as he rode into a tournament or battle, it was a public declaration of his devotion.
This romantic gesture really laid the groundwork for our modern tradition of exchanging flowers as a sign of a special connection between two people.
The practice truly took root and became what we recognize today during the 18th and 19th centuries. The French term boutonnière, which literally means “buttonhole flower,” became popular as men started tucking a single, perfect bloom into the lapel of their jackets.
This shift happened right as formal social events were becoming all the rage, especially during the Victorian era’s fascination with the “language of flowers.” Every bloom carried a specific, secret meaning. A red carnation signaled deep love, while a yellow one could subtly express disdain.
Modern Floral Symbolism
That rich history of symbolism is still with us today, even if we don’t follow the “rules” quite as strictly. We still choose flowers for their meaning, color, and beauty, connecting our modern celebrations back to these ancient customs. When you dig into the history, it’s fascinating to see how specific flowers became associated with certain milestones, like the traditional fruit and flower gifts for the fourth wedding anniversary.
From ancient arenas to Victorian dances, the boutonniere and corsage have always been more than just pretty flowers. They are symbols of honor, love, and celebration—a thread of natural beauty woven through human history that continues to add a meaningful touch to our most important moments.
Modern Etiquette for Wearing Your Florals
You’ve chosen the perfect flowers, now what? Knowing exactly how to wear a boutonniere or corsage is that final touch that brings the whole look together. While these traditions go way back, today’s etiquette is all about what feels right for your celebration. Here’s our simple guide to getting it just right for any formal event.
Traditionally, a boutonniere is worn on the left lapel of a suit jacket or tuxedo. This isn’t just a random spot—it’s meant to place the flower right over the heart. The entire piece should sit securely on the lapel, not tucked into the actual buttonhole. A couple of pins, and you’re set.
Corsages offer a little more flexibility. A wrist corsage is always a popular and practical choice, but pinning one to the left shoulder of a dress is a beautiful, classic alternative. For a more modern take, some people even attach the corsage to a handbag, which is a fantastic way to protect delicate fabrics.
Who Wears What at a Wedding
Figuring out who gets a special floral piece helps streamline your wedding plans and ensures no one important is forgotten. It’s all about honoring the key people celebrating with you.
For a boutonniere, you’ll typically want to include:
- The Groom
- The Groomsmen
- Fathers of the couple
- Grandfathers
- The Ring Bearer
- Ushers and any ceremony readers
For a corsage, the list of recipients usually features:
- Mothers of the couple
- Grandmothers
- Any special female relatives or readers
- The Officiant, if female
Of course, these are just starting points. If you’re looking for more ways to honor the incredible women in your life, we have some wonderful ideas for mother of the bride flowers that will make them feel truly celebrated.
Remember, the goal is to make your honored guests feel special. These florals are a small but powerful gesture of gratitude and inclusion, visually identifying the key players in your celebration.
Fresh Takes for Modern Couples
The best part about modern etiquette? It’s wonderfully inclusive and celebrates every kind of partnership. For same-sex couples, the “rules” are yours to write.
Two grooms might wear matching or complementary boutonnieres. Two brides could each carry a bouquet, wear beautiful corsages, or mix it up with one of each. There’s no right or wrong answer.
Non-binary individuals can choose whatever floral accessory feels most authentic to their personal style, whether it’s a lapel piece, a wristlet, or something completely custom. The beauty of today’s weddings is the freedom to create traditions that are a true reflection of you.
How to Choose Your Flowers and Design Style
This is where the fun really begins. Selecting the flowers for your boutonniere and corsage is your chance to tell a story and infuse the day with your personal style. It’s an opportunity to go beyond the expected and choose blooms that feel authentically you. Sure, classic roses are always a lovely choice, but the world of floral design is bursting with so much more.
Think of it like commissioning a tiny, wearable piece of art. The goal isn’t just to match your outfit, but to create something that feels like a true extension of your personality. Let’s walk through how to pair florals with some of the most popular event styles we see here in Los Angeles.
Classic Romantic Style
For an affair that’s all about timeless elegance, you simply can’t go wrong with lush, classic blooms. This style whispers grace, tradition, and softness. The secret is choosing flowers with full, delicate petals and a gentle, dreamy color palette.
- Flower Choices: Think garden roses, peonies, ranunculus, and fluffy hydrangeas. Their bountiful, layered petals create a feeling of luxurious depth.
- Color Palette: Soft whites, blush pinks, creams, and champagne tones are the cornerstones of this aesthetic. For a dose of pure elegance, you can explore some stunning white corsages and boutonnieres for inspiration.
- Finishing Touches: A simple wrap of classic satin or silk ribbon in a complementary neutral shade gives it that perfect, polished finish.
Bohemian Chic Vibe
If your heart is more free-spirited and unconventional, a bohemian design will feel like a perfect match. This look embraces a natural, “just-gathered-from-the-meadow” feel, rich with texture, unexpected shapes, and earthy colors. It’s less about perfect symmetry and all about organic, effortless beauty.
A great bohemian design feels deeply personal and a little bit wild. It often weaves in dried elements and unique textures to create a piece that’s truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting a genuine connection to nature.
The magic here is in the mix. You want to create a miniature wildflower arrangement by playing with different shapes and sizes for a piece that’s dynamic and full of life.
- Flower Choices: Don’t be afraid to use unique elements like craspedia (billy balls), thistle, waxflower, and a whole host of wildflowers. For greenery, things like eucalyptus, delicate ferns, and even wispy grasses add incredible texture.
- Color Palette: Earthy tones are your best friend here—terracotta, mustard yellow, and dusty rose work beautifully, especially when set off by a pop of deep burgundy or moody blue.
- Finishing Touches: To complete the rustic, handcrafted feel, consider raw-edged silk ribbons, natural twine, or even a simple leather cord.
Modern Minimalist Aesthetic
For those who are drawn to clean lines, bold silhouettes, and the “less is more” philosophy, a modern minimalist style is the way to go. This approach is all about highlighting the architectural beauty of a single, striking bloom or a very simple, structured arrangement.
The power of this design is its quiet confidence. It makes a strong statement without any fuss, letting the flower itself be the star of the show.
- Flower Choices: Calla lilies, orchids, and anthuriums are perfect for this. Their sleek, sculptural forms have an immediate and undeniable modern sophistication.
- Color Palette: A monochromatic scheme is incredibly effective—often a pure, crisp white or a dramatic, deep color like near-black or rich burgundy.
- Finishing Touches: Often, no ribbon is needed at all. If you do add one, it’s typically a very thin, simple wrap that doesn’t dare distract from the flower’s stunning form.
Creating a Cohesive Look with Your Florals
Making sure your boutonniere and corsage feel connected is the secret to a truly polished, high-end look. Think of them as musical harmony—each note is lovely on its own, but when they work together, they create something unforgettable. This small detail ensures every floral element tells the same beautiful story.
There are really two ways you can go about this: direct matching or complementary coordination. Both are fantastic options, and the best choice really just comes down to the specific vibe you’re aiming for.
Direct matching is the most classic and straightforward path. The boutonniere and corsage will share the exact same main flower, creating a clear and elegant link. So, if the corsage is a beautiful cluster of white peonies, the boutonniere would feature a single, perfect peony bud to match. Simple, timeless, and always stunning.
Achieving Complementary Coordination
Now, if you want something with a bit more artistic flair, complementary coordination is where the magic happens. Instead of using identical flowers, the two pieces share a common thread—it could be the color palette, a unique texture, or the overall theme of your event.
This approach gives you so much more room for creativity and personality. Imagine a groom’s boutonniere with a crisp white ranunculus and a single sprig of eucalyptus. It doesn’t scream “matchy-matchy,” but it beautifully echoes a bridal bouquet filled with ranunculus, garden roses, and different types of eucalyptus. They aren’t twins, but they absolutely belong together.
The goal isn’t to create identical clones. It’s about making sure the smaller floral pieces feel like they were born from the same creative vision as the main arrangements, like the bridal bouquet or the table centerpieces.
As you plan your florals, thinking about how these smaller pieces fit into the big picture is key. Looking into budget-friendly wedding decor ideas can also help you weave these important details into your overall design seamlessly.
Boutonniere and Corsage Pairing Ideas for LA Weddings
Sometimes, seeing it is the best way to understand it. To help you get a feel for how this works, we’ve put together a few pairing ideas inspired by popular wedding styles we see all the time here in Los Angeles. Use these as a jumping-off point for your conversation with our floral designers.
| Wedding Style | Boutonniere Suggestion | Corsage Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Beachside Boho | A single white orchid with dried palm leaf accents. | A wristlet of white orchids, spray roses, and textural pampas grass. |
| Classic Romance | One perfect ivory garden rose with Italian ruscus. | A lush arrangement of ivory garden roses and soft pink lisianthus. |
| Modern Minimalist | A sleek, dark purple calla lily with no greenery. | A cluster of mini calla lilies tied with a simple black silk ribbon. |
| Garden Whimsy | A playful mix of blue thistle and waxflower. | A delicate composition of ranunculus, thistle, and silver dollar eucalyptus. |
These examples show how you can either match key flowers or just capture a shared feeling. Either way, the result is a beautifully cohesive look that elevates the entire event.
Ordering and Caring for Your Floral Accessories
Your floral accessories are living, breathing works of art, and making sure they look perfect on the big day starts well before you ever pick them up. The secret is all in the planning and a little bit of know-how for keeping them fresh. When you work with a professional florist, you’re not just getting a design—you’re getting an expertly constructed piece built to last through every photo, hug, and dance move.
For weddings here in Los Angeles, we always recommend booking your florist 3-6 months in advance. Things get busy! For proms or other special events, giving us 2-4 weeks’ notice is usually plenty of time. This window lets us source the most beautiful blooms and craft your custom pieces without any last-minute rush.
Keeping Your Flowers Fresh
Once you have your gorgeous boutonniere or corsage in hand, storage is everything. The name of the game is keeping them cool and hydrated until it’s showtime.
- Chill Out, But Don’t Freeze: Pop the flowers (still in their box) into the main part of your refrigerator. Just be sure to keep them away from the very back, where it can get frosty enough to accidentally freeze the delicate petals.
- Keep Away from Produce: This is a big one! Fruits and veggies release ethylene gas as they ripen, which is a flower’s worst enemy. It makes them wilt much faster, so give your florals their own little space.
If you want to dive deeper into making all your flowers last, we’ve put together a full guide on how to make flowers last longer.
Remember, you’re handling a living piece of art. Always hold it gently by its base or ribbon, and try your best not to touch the petals. The natural oils on your hands can cause bruising and browning, and this one small habit makes a world of difference.
The history behind these little arrangements really shows how special they are. The term ‘boutonniere’ is French for ‘buttonhole flower,’ a nod to the 19th-century trend of wearing a single bloom on a lapelled jacket. Around the same time, during the Victorian era, giving a corsage became a cherished romantic tradition at formal dances and events.
When you’re ready to put it on, the boutonniere always goes on the left lapel, right over the heart. The trick is to pin it from behind the lapel, pushing the pin through the fabric, into the thickest part of the stem, and then back out through the fabric. This keeps it secure and looking sharp all night long.
Common Questions About Boutonnieres and Corsages
As you get into the finer details of planning, a few questions always seem to pop up about boutonnieres and corsages. It’s totally normal to wonder where these classic floral pieces fit into a modern event. Let’s clear up some of the most common queries so you can make choices that feel perfect for you.
Are They Still Necessary Today?
Honestly? No, they’re not mandatory. But they are a beautiful tradition that many people still love. The decision to include them is completely up to you and the vibe you’re creating for your celebration.
Many of our clients in Los Angeles choose them to honor tradition, give their wedding party a cohesive look, or just add that final, elegant touch. That said, we’ve also designed some incredible floral pocket squares and other unique accessories for people who want something different. Some couples skip them altogether! What matters most is that you love the final look.
Today’s corsages and boutonnieres are still a huge part of formal American celebrations. What’s interesting is that while the occasions haven’t changed much, the flowers themselves have gotten smaller over the years. It’s a definite trend toward more subtle, minimalist designs. You can actually read more about this shift in this fascinating history of wearable flowers on Wikipedia.org.
How Much Should I Expect to Pay?
The price can really vary. It depends on your location, the specific flowers you fall in love with, how intricate the design is, and even the time of year. A boutonniere will almost always be less expensive than a corsage simply because it’s smaller and uses fewer materials.
The best way to get a real number is to chat with a local florist. We can give you a personalized quote based on exactly what you have in mind.
Can I Make My Own Boutonniere or Corsage?
If you’re feeling crafty, you can certainly give it a try! But it’s trickier than it looks. Getting a professional, polished result that will actually hold up through hours of photos, hugs, and dancing takes special tools, wiring techniques, and super fresh flowers.
For a stress-free experience and a gorgeous outcome that you know will last, working with a professional floral designer is the way to go. It’s one less thing to worry about on your big day.
Ready to create the perfect floral accents for your Los Angeles wedding or special event? The expert designers at Fiore are here to bring your vision to life with stunning, custom-made boutonnieres and corsages. Visit us at fioredesigns.com to schedule your consultation today.
