A wedding boutonniere and corsage are classic symbols of elegance and celebration at any formal event, especially weddings.
They are small floral arrangements typically worn close to the heart: the boutonniere on a lapel and the corsage on a wrist or pinned to a dress.
While they may seem like minuscule details, these floral accessories play a significant role in wedding attire, highlighting the connection between guests and the couple.
Pinning on a boutonniere or attaching a corsage requires a gentle touch and attention to detail.
Proper placement ensures that these pieces not only look splendid throughout the ceremony but also stay secure without damaging the attire.
Once you understand the simple yet crucial steps involved, you’ll be able to fasten these floral accents with ease, guaranteeing they remain intact and beautiful for the duration of the event.
Stick with us and we’ll show you how it’s done.
Key Takeaways
- Boutonnieres and corsages are important floral accents for a wedding.
- Correctly pinning a boutonniere and attaching a corsage is essential for their appearance and security.
- Mastering these elements adds elegance to the wedding attire and keeps the floral pieces in place.
Preparing To Pin The Boutonniere
Pinning a boutonniere is a classic wedding tradition; doing it right requires attention to detail. The groom, best man, groomsmen, and ushers typically wear a boutonniere on their left lapel to symbolize the occasion.
Understanding Boutonniere Basics
A boutonniere is a floral decoration worn by men. It distinguishes the significant individuals in a wedding beyond the groom and is traditionally placed on the left lapel.
Color and style should harmonize with the wedding theme and reflect your personal touch.
Boutonnieres typically consist of one or two small flowers and may include additional decorations such as greenery or a sprig.
Selecting The Right Pin
Choosing the correct pin is crucial for both holding the boutonniere in place and not damaging the suit fabric.
It’s best to use a pearl-headed pin for easy handling, or some opt for a sturdy safety pin hidden behind the lapel for a discreet fix.
Occasionally, two pins may be necessary for heavier boutonnieres to ensure they remain secure throughout the wedding day.
Suit Jacket And Lapel Considerations
When pinning a boutonniere, you should position it on the left lapel of the suit jacket, covering the buttonhole if one is present.
The fabric of the lapel needs to support the weight of the flower without sagging.
Lift the lapel gently to pin from the backside, entering the fabric at a slight angle so as not to pucker the lapel or be visible from the front.
Attaching The Corsage
When preparing for a wedding, understanding how to attach a corsage correctly is important for ensuring it remains secure and gorgeous throughout the event.
Knowing the proper technique is key, whether you’re the mother of the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest.
Different Types of Corsages
Wrist corsages are popular for women as they offer ease of movement and can be worn with various dress styles.
They typically consist of a small bouquet of flowers secured on a ribbon or elastic band.
Pin-on corsages are more traditional and are attached directly to the fabric of a dress or a jacket lapel, offering a classic look and often signifying special roles within the wedding party, such as the mother of the bride or the groom’s parents.
Securing Corsages On Various Fabrics
Securing a corsage properly requires attention to the fabric being used.
For delicate fabrics, a magnetic corsage pin can prevent damage, while sturdier materials, such as a wool jacket lapel, can handle traditional pins without concern.
When pinning a corsage, insert the pin from the underside of the fabric, up through the stem, and back down into the fabric to create stability without showing the pin.
- For light fabrics: Use magnetic pins for a secure hold without fabric damage.
- For heavy fabrics: Traditional pins work well; ensure they don’t distort the fabric’s drape.
Final Touches And Adjustments
Once the corsage is secure, make subtle adjustments to the flower arrangement to ensure the blooms and greenery have the right contrast and visibility, which add to the overall elegance.
Check for movement restrictions and reposition if necessary for comfort and a natural look. Remember, the corsage should complement the outfit and add to the aesthetics of the wedding attire.
Our Final Word
Wedding boutonniere and corsages are traditional elements of wedding attire, but to make sure they stay in place all day, you have to know how to pin them properly.
We hope our guide has helped you navigate the nuances of attaching this accessory, but if you’re still unsure, just head over to YouTube where you’ll find a ton of helpful videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proper placement for a boutonniere on a suit or tuxedo?
You should place the boutonniere on the left lapel of your suit or tuxedo, ideally aligning it with the widest part of the lapel, at or just above the heart level.
What techniques can be used to securely attach a boutonniere without using a pin?
For securing a boutonniere without pins, consider using a magnetic boutonniere holder, which has a magnet that attaches to the back of the lapel, holding the boutonniere in place.
How can you correctly pin a boutonniere on a vest for a wedding occasion?
When pinning a boutonniere on a vest, position it above the heart or on the left side. Push the pin through the fabric from behind, then over the stem, and back through the fabric to secure it.
On which side of the attire should the boutonniere be worn, and does this differ by cultural or regional practices?
The boutonniere is traditionally worn on the left side of the attire. While this practice is common in many cultures, always be mindful of any specific cultural or regional variations that may apply.
To what height on the lapel should a boutonniere be pinned for a formal event?
For a formal event, the boutonniere should be pinned so that it sits at the same level as the top buttonhole of the lapel or slightly higher, ensuring a balanced and elegant appearance.
How do corsage pins differ from boutonniere pins in terms of design and usage?
Corsage pins are generally longer with a more decorative head, designed to handle the heavier floral arrangement of a corsage, while boutonniere pins are shorter and often less decorative as they need to secure smaller, lighter flowers to lapels.