What is boutonniere?

A boutonniere (also known as a buttonhole) is a floral decoration worn by men, typically on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket.

  • Occasions: Buttonholes are traditionally worn for special occasions such as weddings, proms, funerals, and other formal events.
  • Placement: It is typically worn on the left lapel, positioned through the buttonhole (if one exists) or pinned to the fabric.
  • Composition: Common flowers used for boutonnieres include roses, carnations, orchids, and lilies of the valley, often accompanied by greenery or other small accents.
  • Modern Trends: Modern boutonnieres can be more creative and may incorporate non-floral elements such as feathers, berries, or small ornaments to reflect the wearer's personality or the theme of the event.
  • Etiquette: The boutonniere should complement the wearer's attire and not clash with the overall aesthetic of the event. It's generally considered good etiquette for the person who provides the flowers for an event (such as a wedding) to also provide the boutonnieres for the male members of the wedding party.