How To Pin A Boutonniere: Perfect Placement In 3 Easy Steps

What Is a Boutonnière and How Do You Wear One?

One of the most common mistakes men make when getting ready on their big day is poor boutonniere placement. We’ve seen it everywhere from the center of their lapel to inside the front pocket of their jacket. When you think about it, it’s understandable that this may be confusing. After all, how often do you wear a boutonniere? Maybe a couple times a year if you’re a party animal, but most will only wear a boutonniere a few times in their lifetime. All it takes is one person to be an expert in boutonniere placement and after this article, you’ll be that guy.

Key Takeaways

• Boutonnières are small floral arrangements worn by men on the lapel of a jacket. They add sophistication and style to formal occasions like weddings, proms, and galas.
• Boutonnières are traditionally worn on the left lapel, slightly above the heart.
• Boutonnière costs varies depending on factors like flower type and design complexity, typically ranging from $10 to $20.
• Pairing a boutonnière with a pocket square can elevate your formal ensemble; coordinate colors and fabrics for a cohesive look.

What Is a Boutonnière?

A boutonnière is a small floral decoration typically worn by men on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. It's commonly seen at formal events such as weddings, proms, or other special occasions. The word "boutonnière" is French and originally referred to the buttonhole where the stem of the flower goes.

Centuries ago in Europe, guys were already on the boutonnière trend. They'd jazz up their jackets with tiny flowers, herbs, or other natural elements they could find to look classy and slick. Initially, these floral decorations served practical purposes, such as masking body odor or warding off evil spirits. But over time, they evolved into accessories worn for style.

Nowadays, boutonnières are still going strong, but they're more about adding a bit of flair to your formalwear. Whether you're attending a wedding or a fancy gala, these small but impactful floral accents bring a splash of color and personality to your outfit. You can keep it simple with a single bloom or go all out with a fancy arrangement of flowers, leaves, and maybe even some cool pins.

So, next time you suit up for a special occasion, don't forget to throw on a boutonnière. It's a small touch that packs a big punch in the style department.

What Are the Different Types of Boutonnières?

When it comes to boutonnières, the options are endless, allowing you to add a personal touch to your formal attire. From classic floral designs to more unconventional styles, there's something to suit every taste and occasion.

• Flower Boutonnières: These are the classics. A single bloom or a small cluster of flowers pinned to your lapel can instantly elevate your look. Roses, carnations, and lilies are popular choices, but feel free to get creative with seasonal blooms or your favorite flowers.
• Fabric Boutonnières: If you're looking for something a bit more durable or long-lasting, fabric boutonnières are a great option. These can be made from various materials like silk, satin, or even lace, adding a touch of texture and elegance to your ensemble.
• Feather Boutonnières: For a unique and eye-catching accessory, consider a boutonnière made from feathers. Whether you opt for natural feathers or brightly colored ones, they're sure to make a statement and add a playful twist to your outfit.
• Theme-Specific Boutonnières: You can also search for or create theme-specific boutonnières that tie into the theme of the event. Whether it's a rustic wedding, a beachside event, or a vintage-inspired party, you can tailor your boutonnière to match the vibe perfectly.
• DIY Boutonnières: Feeling crafty? Consider making your own boutonnière. With a little creativity and some basic supplies like flowers, greenery, and pins, you can design a custom boutonnière that reflects your personal style and flair. Plus, it adds a special touch knowing you made it yourself.

What Side Does a Boutonnière Go On?

Traditionally, a boutonnière is worn on the left side of the jacket lapel, positioned slightly above the heart. This placement not only looks great but also allows the boutonnière to be easily seen and appreciated. It's a small detail, but getting it right adds a polished touch to your overall look.

How Do You Pin a Boutonnière?

Pinning a boutonnière may seem like a small detail, but getting it right can make a big difference in your overall appearance. Whether you're attending a wedding, prom, or any formal event, knowing how to properly pin a boutonnière ensures that it stays securely in place throughout the occasion. Below, we'll walk through the steps to pinning a boutonnière so you can nail that dapper look with confidence.

1. Find the right placement

The key to wearing a boutonniere is proper placement. Boutonnieres are always placed on the left lapel of your jacket. Almost all suit lapels will have a button hole which makes finding the right spot really easy as the boutonniere will be placed directly over it. Specifically, the largest part of the flower will be placed over the hole with the base of the flower where the ribbon covered stem begins laying on the lapel below the button hole. The stem of the boutonniere should be aligned with the sides of the lapel so it angles in the same direction. Fun Fact: Boutonniere is French for button hole which was originally designed to let men stick single flowers through their lapel.