Fashion
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Should I Consider When Buying Corsages and Boutonnieres?

Erika Peterson
Erika Peterson

When you are buying flowers, there are always a few things that need to be kept in mind in order in order to make the perfect impression. Different elements will need to be considered if the flowers are part of a bouquet than if the blooms are for corsages and boutonnieres. There are several important things to keep in mind when you are buying corsages and boutonnieres.

Most people would agree that the most important factor to consider before purchasing corsages or boutonnieres is the occasion at which the flowers will be worn. Weddings will need a different flower selection than dances, and both types of flowers would be inappropriate for a funeral. For example, red roses would look beautiful in a corsage wristlet or dance boutonniere, but you may want to go with white roses for a funeral or another sad occasion.

The type of corsage and flowers used depend on the occasion, as the atmospheres at a wedding and funeral are very different.
The type of corsage and flowers used depend on the occasion, as the atmospheres at a wedding and funeral are very different.

Generally, corsages and boutonnieres are created to match a person’s attire. At a dance a couples flowers should match, or at the very least they should not clash. Even though the flowers on dance corsages and boutonnieres usually match clothing items, they do not have to be the same color. A girl may choose to wear a black dress, and her date a black and white tux. In that case any color flowers would be appropriate.

Roses are a popular corsage choice for prom.
Roses are a popular corsage choice for prom.

After the type of occasion and the clothing that is being worn are both considered, it is important to think of the wearer before you order any corsages or boutonnieres. Whether the occasion is a dance, wedding or funeral the wearer should be considered. Often a person’s favorite flower can be incorporated into the piece.

Next, consider style. Corsages come in two main styles: a wristlet and a pin on version. Both versions are appropriate for most occasions; however, if a female is wearing a strapless gown, a wristlet is always going to be better than a pin on corsage. The style of a boutonniere is easier than a corsage. It only comes in one basic style, and it suits almost all of its wearers.

White roses symbolize purity.
White roses symbolize purity.

The final thing to consider when buying corsages and boutonnieres is look. This is the best time to choose between silk and fresh flowers, ribbon or no ribbon and baby’s breath or no baby’s breath. You may also decide to contemplate when you want a single flower or multiple flowers. Just imagine what you want it to look like and go from there. As long as the corsage matches the woman's dress or clothing, and the boutonniere matches the man’s tie everything will turn out perfectly.

Discussion Comments

animegal

When you are going to a prom as a couple which one of you should buy the corsage and boutonnieres?

Should the guy buy it for the girl and vice versa? Or can you go get them together?

I am really curious about this as you always see the by bringing the corsage in movies, and wondering if it is a set in stone tradition.

I think it is really nice for couples to have matching flowers for a big event like this.

Sara007

If you are planning corsages and boutonnieres for a wedding, the ladies in the bridal party can have fun making them a day or two before the event.

While most people get whoever is handling their flower arrangements to tackle this task too, it is actually much cheaper to make them yourself.

My friend saved about $200 dollars doing this as a fun craft project with her bridesmaids. We had a bit of an afternoon get together, had lunch and by the time we were finished, we had lovely accessories.

Everything you need is available at the craft store. We bought silk flowers (you can use real ones too), some flower tape, a bit of wire, ribbon and corsage pins.

Basically you just arrange the flowers the way you want, secure them with wire and use flower tape to give it a clean look. The pins are used to either secure the arrangement to a lapel, or ribbon for your wrist.

There are lots of step-by-step videos online for more details. It is very easy to do.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The type of corsage and flowers used depend on the occasion, as the atmospheres at a wedding and funeral are very different.
      By: BVDC
      The type of corsage and flowers used depend on the occasion, as the atmospheres at a wedding and funeral are very different.
    • Roses are a popular corsage choice for prom.
      By: Mariusz Blach
      Roses are a popular corsage choice for prom.
    • White roses symbolize purity.
      By: Eric Isselée
      White roses symbolize purity.
    • The colors of the tux and dress can influence the best choice when buying corsages and boutonnieres.
      By: caimacanul
      The colors of the tux and dress can influence the best choice when buying corsages and boutonnieres.