A boutonniere is a small flower or bud worn on the lapel of a suit jacket or tuxedo. It is typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party. Boutonnieres can also be worn by women, and they are often seen at proms, homecoming dances, and other formal events.
Boutonnieres have been around for centuries, and they have been worn by people of all cultures. In the Victorian era, boutonnieres were often made of fresh flowers, and they were often given as gifts to express love and affection. Today, boutonnieres are still popular, and they are often made of a variety of materials, including fresh flowers, silk flowers, and even feathers.
There are many different factors to consider when choosing a boutonniere. The most important factor is the occasion. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose a boutonniere that is elegant and sophisticated. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose a boutonniere that is more whimsical and fun.
1. Occasion
The occasion for which you need a boutonniere will greatly influence your choice. Formal events, such as weddings and proms, call for boutonnieres that are elegant and sophisticated. These boutonnieres are typically made with high-quality flowers, such as roses, lilies, and orchids, and they are often adorned with ribbons or other embellishments. Less formal events, such as homecoming dances and parties, allow for more whimsical and fun boutonnieres. These boutonnieres can be made with a wider variety of flowers, including wildflowers and greenery, and they can be decorated with beads, feathers, or other whimsical elements.
- Formal Occasions: Weddings and proms are two of the most common formal occasions for which people wear boutonnieres. For these events, it is important to choose a boutonniere that is elegant and sophisticated. This means choosing a boutonniere that is made with high-quality flowers, such as roses, lilies, and orchids. You may also want to choose a boutonniere that is adorned with ribbons or other embellishments.
- Less Formal Occasions: Homecoming dances and parties are two of the most common less formal occasions for which people wear boutonnieres. For these events, you can choose a boutonniere that is more whimsical and fun. This means choosing a boutonniere that is made with a wider variety of flowers, including wildflowers and greenery. You may also want to choose a boutonniere that is decorated with beads, feathers, or other whimsical elements.
No matter what the occasion, there is a boutonniere that is perfect for you. By following these tips, you can choose a boutonniere that will complement your outfit and make you look your best.
2. Flowers
When choosing the flowers for your boutonniere, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the overall style of the event. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose flowers that are elegant and sophisticated. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose flowers that are more whimsical and fun.
- Personal preferences: The most important factor to consider when choosing the flowers for your boutonniere is your personal preferences. What are your favorite flowers? What colors do you like? Once you have a general idea of what you want, you can start to narrow down your choices.
- Event style: The overall style of the event should also be taken into consideration when choosing the flowers for your boutonniere. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose flowers that are elegant and sophisticated. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose flowers that are more whimsical and fun.
- Flower availability: The availability of flowers will also play a role in your decision-making process. Some flowers are only available during certain seasons, so it is important to keep this in mind when you are choosing your flowers.
- Cost: The cost of flowers can also be a factor to consider when choosing the flowers for your boutonniere. Some flowers are more expensive than others, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
Once you have considered all of these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices and choose the perfect flowers for your boutonniere.
3. Colors
The color of your boutonniere is an important detail to consider when putting together your outfit for a formal event. The right color boutonniere can complement your outfit and make you look your best. Conversely, the wrong color boutonniere can clash with your outfit and make you look disheveled.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the color of your boutonniere. First, consider the overall color scheme of your outfit. If you are wearing a dark suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with light-colored flowers. This will create a contrast that will make your boutonniere stand out. If you are wearing a light-colored suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with dark-colored flowers. This will help to ground your outfit and give it a more polished look.
Another thing to consider when choosing the color of your boutonniere is the occasion. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose a boutonniere with a more traditional color, such as white or red. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose a boutonniere with a more fun and whimsical color, such as yellow or blue.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the color of your boutonniere is to experiment and see what looks best with your outfit. Try on a few different boutonnieres and see which one you like the most. With so many different colors and styles to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect boutonniere for your special occasion.
4. Size
When choosing the size of your boutonniere, it is important to consider the size of your lapel. A small boutonniere will look best on a small lapel, and a large boutonniere will look best on a large lapel. This is because the boutonniere should be in proportion to the lapel. A boutonniere that is too large for the lapel will look out of place and overwhelming, while a boutonniere that is too small for the lapel will look lost and insignificant.
In general, a boutonniere should be about one-third to one-half the width of the lapel. This will ensure that the boutonniere is noticeable but not overpowering. If you are unsure about the size of the boutonniere you need, you can always ask a florist for help.
The size of your boutonniere can also be affected by the type of flowers you choose. For example, a boutonniere made with large flowers, such as roses or lilies, will be larger than a boutonniere made with small flowers, such as daisies or violets. When choosing the flowers for your boutonniere, keep in mind the size of the lapel and the overall look you are trying to achieve.
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect size boutonniere for your special occasion.
5. Style
The style of your boutonniere is an important detail to consider when putting together your outfit for a formal event. The right style boutonniere can complement your outfit and make you look your best. Conversely, the wrong style boutonniere can clash with your outfit and make you look disheveled.
- Traditional Styles: Traditional boutonnieres are typically made with a single flower, such as a rose or a lily. They are often adorned with a ribbon or other simple embellishment. Traditional boutonnieres are a good choice for formal events, such as weddings and proms.
- Modern Styles: Modern boutonnieres are more varied in their design. They may be made with a variety of flowers, including wildflowers and greenery. Modern boutonnieres may also be adorned with beads, feathers, or other embellishments. Modern boutonnieres are a good choice for less formal events, such as homecoming dances and parties.
- Personal Style: Ultimately, the best way to choose the style of your boutonniere is to consider your personal style. What kind of flowers do you like? What kind of embellishments do you prefer? Once you have a good understanding of your personal style, you can start to narrow down your choices.
- Event Style: The overall style of the event should also be taken into consideration when choosing the style of your boutonniere. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose a boutonniere that is more traditional and elegant. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose a boutonniere that is more modern and fun.
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect style boutonniere for your special occasion.
FAQs
If you are planning to attend a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you may be wondering how to buy a boutonniere. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you choose the perfect boutonniere for your special occasion.
Question 1: What is the proper way to wear a boutonniere?
A boutonniere should be worn on the left lapel of your jacket, just above your pocket square. The stem of the boutonniere should be inserted into the buttonhole of your lapel.
Question 2: What type of flowers are commonly used in boutonnieres?
Popular choices for boutonnieres include roses, lilies, carnations, and orchids. However, you can choose any type of flower that you like.
Question 3: What is the best way to choose the right color boutonniere?
The color of your boutonniere should complement the colors of your outfit. If you are wearing a dark suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with light-colored flowers. If you are wearing a light-colored suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with dark-colored flowers.
Question 4: What is the proper size for a boutonniere?
The size of your boutonniere should be proportionate to the size of your lapel. A small boutonniere will look best on a small lapel, and a large boutonniere will look best on a large lapel.
Question 5: Can I make my own boutonniere?
Yes, you can make your own boutonniere. There are many online tutorials that can show you how to make a boutonniere. However, if you are not confident in your ability to make a boutonniere, you can always purchase one from a florist.
Question 6: How should I store my boutonniere?
Your boutonniere should be stored in a cool, dark place. You can also wrap your boutonniere in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. This will help to keep your boutonniere fresh.
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect boutonniere for your special occasion.
With just a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect boutonniere to complement your outfit and make you look your best.
Now that you know how to buy a boutonniere, you can start shopping for the perfect one for your special occasion.
Tips on How to Buy a Boutonniere
A boutonniere is a small flower or bud worn on the lapel of a suit jacket or tuxedo. It is typically worn by the groom, groomsmen, and other members of the wedding party. Boutonnieres can also be worn by women, and they are often seen at proms, homecoming dances, and other formal events.
If you are planning to attend a formal event, it is important to choose the right boutonniere. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:
Tip 1: Consider the Occasion
The first step in choosing a boutonniere is to consider the occasion. For a formal event, such as a wedding or a prom, you will want to choose a boutonniere that is elegant and sophisticated. For a less formal event, such as a homecoming dance or a party, you can choose a boutonniere that is more whimsical and fun.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Flowers
The type of flowers you choose for your boutonniere will depend on your personal preferences and the overall style of the event. Popular choices for boutonnieres include roses, lilies, carnations, and orchids.
Tip 3: Select the Right Color
The color of your boutonniere should complement the colors of your outfit. If you are wearing a dark suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with light-colored flowers. If you are wearing a light-colored suit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with dark-colored flowers.
Tip 4: Choose the Right Size
The size of your boutonniere should be proportionate to the size of your lapel. A small boutonniere will look best on a small lapel, and a large boutonniere will look best on a large lapel.
Tip 5: Consider Your Personal Style
The style of your boutonniere should reflect your personal style. If you are a more traditional person, you may want to choose a boutonniere with a classic design. If you are a more modern person, you may want to choose a boutonniere with a more contemporary design.
Summary
By following these tips, you can choose the perfect boutonniere for your special occasion. With just a little bit of planning, you can find the perfect boutonniere to complement your outfit and make you look your best.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to buy a boutonniere, you can start shopping for the perfect one for your special occasion.
Closing Remarks on Acquiring a Boutonniere
In summary, selecting a boutonniere requires careful consideration of the event’s formality, personal style, and the harmonious complement it should create with your attire. Whether you opt for traditional elegance or a more contemporary flair, a well-chosen boutonniere can elevate your ensemble and leave a lasting impression.
As you embark on your search for the perfect boutonniere, let these guiding principles inform your decision-making. Remember that a boutonniere is not merely an accessory but a subtle yet impactful statement of your style and the occasion’s significance. With these insights in mind, you can confidently select a boutonniere that will enhance your special moment.