Boutonnieres have been a classic accessory for men’s formalwear for centuries. These small, decorative flowers are traditionally worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket, adding a touch of elegance and personality to any outfit. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about boutonnieres, including their definition, purpose, and how to wear them for your wedding day.
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Boutonnieres: What They Are and Why They Matter
A boutonniere is a small flower or group of flowers worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. The word “boutonniere” comes from the French word “bouton,” meaning button, and refers to the practice of fastening a flower to the lapel with a small buttonhole.
Boutonnieres serve both aesthetic and symbolic purposes. From a visual standpoint, they add a pop of color and texture to a suit, complementing the overall look of the wearer. From a symbolic standpoint, they can represent a variety of things, including the theme or color scheme of the wedding, the relationship between the wearer and their partner, or the wearer’s personal taste.
The History and Significance of Boutonnieres in Weddings
The tradition of wearing boutonnieres at weddings dates back to ancient times. In many cultures flowers were believed to have special powers, and were used to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the couple on their wedding day.
During the Renaissance, it became fashionable for men to wear small floral arrangements on their jackets as a sign of their wealth and status. These arrangements were often made up of rare and exotic flowers and were considered a symbol of the wearer’s taste and sophistication.
Today, boutonnieres are an important part of the modern wedding ceremony. They are worn by the groom, the groomsmen, and sometimes even the fathers of the bride and groom. They serve as a visual reminder of the love and commitment being celebrated and are often chosen to complement the bride’s bouquet and the overall wedding theme. And of course, they look amazing in photos!
Choosing the Right Boutonniere: A Guide to Match Your Style and Occasion
When it comes to choosing the right boutonniere, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to match the style and color of the flower to the occasion and your outfit. For weddings, formal events, and black-tie affairs, classic boutonnieres made of traditional flowers such as roses or carnations are often the go-to choice. For more casual events you can use wildflowers, succulents, or other unconventional options to add a touch of personality.
Secondly, the wearer’s personal style should also be taken into account when choosing a boutonniere. For example, if the wearer typically leans towards classic, minimalist style, a small, simple boutonniere made of a single flower would be a good choice. For those with a more eclectic taste, a bold, multi-colored boutonniere made of unconventional flowers or materials might be a better fit.
Boutonniere Selection Made Easy: Tips for Picking the Perfect Flower
Now that you know what to look for when choosing a boutonniere, here are a few tips to help make the selection process even easier.
Consider the Season
The season in which the wedding takes place can have a big impact on the flowers that are available for boutonnieres. Some flowers, such as roses and carnations, are available year-round, while others, such as peonies and sunflowers, are only available during certain seasons.
Think About Texture
In addition to color, texture can also add visual interest to a boutonniere. Consider incorporating flowers with varying textures, such as soft petals and spiky leaves, to create a more dynamic look.
Stay in Budget
Boutonnieres can range in price depending on the type of flower and the complexity of the design. Set a budget before beginning the selection process to ensure you’re not overspending on this small but significant detail.
The Language of Flowers: How to Choose a Boutonniere That Conveys Your Message
Each flower has its own symbolic meaning, and the language of flowers, also known as floriography, has been used for centuries to convey specific messages. Here are a few popular flowers and their meanings that can help you choose a boutonniere that conveys the right message:
- Roses: Roses are classic and timeless, and they symbolize love, passion, and admiration. Red roses are especially popular for weddings, as they represent love and romance, while white roses symbolize purity and innocence.
- Carnations: Carnations come in a variety of colors, each with its own meaning. Pink carnations represent gratitude and admiration, while red carnations symbolize love and affection.
- Lilies: Lilies are elegant and sophisticated, and they symbolize purity and majesty. White lilies are often used in wedding boutonnieres, as they represent innocence and purity.
- Succulents: Succulents are a trendy and modern option for boutonnieres. They symbolize strength and resilience, making them a great choice for grooms who want to convey these qualities.
Step-by-Step: How to Properly Pin a Boutonniere
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect boutonniere, it’s time to learn how to properly pin it to your suit jacket. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Hold the boutonniere by the stem with your non-dominant hand.
- Use your dominant hand to slide the pin through the back of the lapel, about 1/2 inch below the buttonhole
- Push the pin through the stem of the boutonniere, making sure it’s secure.
- Take a second pin and slide it through the lapel, parallel to the first pin, about 1/2 inch above the buttonhole.
- Push the second pin through the stem of the boutonniere, crossing over the first pin to create an “X” shape.
The placement of your boutonniere can have a significant impact on its overall impact. If you want to make a statement, consider placing it slightly higher up on the lapel, closer to the shoulder. This will draw attention to it and create a bolder look.
Flower Power: How to Pin a Boutonniere That Stays Put All Night
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to boutonnieres is making sure they stay put throughout the wedding festivities. To keep the boutonniere in place, use two pins to secure the boutonniere in a cross shape. Pinning the boutonniere at an angle, rather than straight up and down, can also help keep it in place. If you’re really worried about your boutonniere staying put, consider using a little bit of floral adhesive or double-sided tape. This will keep it from shifting or falling off, and will also protect your jacket from any damage.
Boutonniere Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts for Wearing and Pinning
There are a few important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when it comes to wearing and pinning a boutonniere. First, make sure that the boutonniere matches the rest of your outfit and is appropriate for the occasion.
Second, be gentle when pinning the boutonniere, as you don’t want to damage the flower or the lapel. Use a light touch and avoid tugging or pulling on the stem.
Finally, be mindful of the placement of the boutonniere throughout the event, making sure that it stays in place and doesn’t become dislodged or damaged.
From Roses to Succulents: A Guide to Popular Boutonniere Flowers
There are countless flowers that you can use in boutonnieres, each with its own unique look and meaning. Here are a few popular options:
- Roses: As mentioned above, roses are a classic and timeless choice for boutonnieres. They come in a variety of colors, each with its own meaning.
- Carnations: Carnations are another popular choice, as they are affordable, long-lasting, and come in a variety of colors.
- Lilies: Lilies are elegant and sophisticated, making them a great choice for formal weddings.
- Succulents: Succulents are a trendy and modern option, and they can add a unique texture to your boutonniere.
The Ultimate Guide to Boutonniere Styling: Tips for Grooms
As the groom, your boutonniere is an important part of your wedding day look. To ensure that your boutonniere matches your style and personality, consider incorporating elements that reflect your interests and hobbies.
For example, if you are an avid sports fan, you could incorporate a miniature baseball or football into your boutonniere. If you have a favorite color or flower, make sure to include it in the design.
Ultimately, the key to a successful boutonniere is to choose something that is comfortable, stylish, and appropriate for the occasion. By following these tips and guidelines, you can create a beautiful and memorable boutonniere that adds a special touch to your formal outfit.
In conclusion, the boutonniere is a classic accessory that can add a touch of elegance and personality to any wedding outfit. If you pin the boutonniere properly, you can create a polished and sophisticated look that will make you feel confident and stylish on your big day. Whether you opt for classic roses or trendy succulents, there’s a boutonniere out there for every style and personality. So go ahead and embrace the power of flowers with a stunning boutonniere that’s sure to turn heads!