Boutonniere

Definition and Overview

A boutonniere is a small floral decoration worn on the left lapel of a jacket. It may be made from fresh flowers, fabric flowers, ribbons, metal, or other materials, and is used for attire at weddings, ceremonies, parties, and similar occasions. It is also sometimes called a lapel flower.

Strictly speaking, a flower hole refers to the hole itself made in the lapel. However, depending on the product or workplace, care is needed because the terms boutonniere and flower hole may be used to refer either to the floral decoration or to the specification of the lapel buttonhole.

Placement and Construction

The standard attachment point is the flower hole on the left lapel as seen by the wearer. The decoration often consists of the flower head, a stem-like shaft, and a fastener, and the shaft is inserted through the hole and secured on the back side of the lapel.

Ready-made boutonnieres also include pin-on types and types that use magnetic force. Since pin fastening may leave holes in the textile, for lightweight or delicate outer fabrics, confirm the fastening position and method in advance.

When tailoring a flower hole, the area around the hole may be stitched, and in some specifications interfacing or other auxiliary materials are inserted inside to add thickness and a three-dimensional effect. If it is intended for inserting an ornament, also consider the opening of the hole and whether there is a backing on the reverse side of the lapel.

Materials and Finishing

Fresh flowers can create seasonality and freshness, but attention is needed for moisture, damage, and color transfer to clothing. For fabric versions, silk, polyester, and Jacquard are used, and the appearance changes depending on the woven pattern, sheen, and layering of the petals.

For formal attire, harmony with the texture of the jacket fabric, tie, and pocket square is important. Strong sheen or overly large shapes can stand out too much, so choose the finish to match the atmosphere of the event and the overall color palette.

• Fresh flowers: easy to make use of a natural look, but require water retention and careful handling.
• Fabric flowers: keep their shape well and can add design interest through weave patterns and sheen.
• Metal, etc.: highly decorative, and it is necessary to confirm a fastening method that will not damage the clothing.

How to Coordinate with Attire

For daytime formalwear, it is common to add a fresh flower or a restrained fabric flower to the left lapel. For weddings, choose based on the roles of the main party and guests, the venue's rules, and color coordination with the other side's corsage.

For evening formalwear, a small, elegant floral decoration may be paired with attire such as a tuxedo. However, for black tie or white tie, give priority to the invitation's dress code and the event customs when deciding whether to use decoration and what color to use.

With casual jackets, a boutonniere can also be used as an accent. Even in this case, making sure the flower is not too large for the lapel width and that it does not compete in color or pattern with the tie or pocket square helps create a polished impression.

Selection and Handling Notes

When choosing one, check whether the jacket has a flower hole in the lapel, the size of the hole, and the shape of the fastener. If using a pin on a jacket without a hole, consider not only the outer fabric but also the effect on the interfacing and lining, and secure it in a discreet position.

For fresh flowers, avoid drying out and pressure until just before wearing, and make sure moisture from the stems does not touch the clothing. For fabric versions, to prevent loss of shape, remove dust after use and store them without crushing the petals.

Frequently Asked Questions