Short answer: The groom’s boutonniere should echo the bride’s bouquet and stand out slightly from the groomsmen. Popular ideas are a fuller two-rose design, a single red or white rose, a sleek calla lily, blue and ivory for a blue theme, or airy baby’s breath. Pin it on the left lapel, stem down, shortly before photos.
The boutonniere is the groom’s one floral accessory, and it appears in every close-up of the couple. It ties the groom to the bride’s bouquet and sets him apart from the groomsmen. These ideas use designs from our boutonnieres collection, with notes on matching, sizing and pinning.
What makes a great groom’s boutonniere
- Echoes the bouquet: one flower or colour from the bride.
- Slightly different: fuller or more detailed than the groomsmen’s.
- Suits the suit: contrast with the fabric colour.
- Secure: light enough to stay put through hugs and dancing.
1. Two white roses for a fuller look
A two-rose boutonniere is noticeably fuller than a single stem, which makes it a natural way to distinguish the groom.
The Ivory Duo Boutonniere combines two white roses with baby’s breath and greenery. Groomsmen can wear the single-rose version for a matching set.
- Ivory Duo Boutonniere: Two white roses for the groom
- Ivory Rose Boutonniere: A single white rose for groomsmen
2. A single red rose
Red is bold and romantic, and it pairs naturally with a red or red-and-ivory bridal bouquet.
The Red Romance Boutonniere is a red rose with baby’s breath and greenery. It looks striking against black, navy and grey suits.
- Red Romance Boutonniere: A red rose for a red or red-and-ivory wedding
3. A calla lily for a modern look
A calla lily has a clean, sculptural line that suits modern weddings and slim-cut suits. It pairs with calla lily bridal bouquets.
The Ivory Calla Boutonniere is a white calla lily with baby’s breath and a satin detail.
- Ivory Calla Boutonniere: A white calla lily with satin detail
4. Blue and ivory for something blue
If the wedding includes blue, the groom can carry it on his lapel. It is also a nice way for the groom to share the something blue tradition.
The Blue & Ivory Duo Boutonniere combines blue and white roses with baby’s breath.
- Blue & Ivory Duo Boutonniere: Blue and white roses for a blue theme
5. Baby’s breath for a light, modern look
Baby’s breath is airy and minimal, and it suits boho, rustic and city hall weddings. It also matches almost any palette.
The Baby’s Breath Boutonniere uses white baby’s breath with a satin wrap.
- Baby’s Breath Boutonniere: White baby’s breath with a satin wrap
6. A classic single white rose
Sometimes the classic choice is the strongest. A single white rose suits every suit colour and every palette.
The Ivory Rose Boutonniere is a white rose with baby’s breath and greenery.
- Ivory Rose Boutonniere: A classic white rose
Matching the boutonniere to the bridal bouquet
- Ivory or white rose bouquet: Ivory Duo for the groom, Ivory Rose for groomsmen.
- Red and ivory bouquet: Red Romance for the groom.
- Calla lily bouquet: Ivory Calla.
- Blue bouquet: Blue & Ivory Duo.
- Baby’s breath or boho bouquet: Baby’s Breath Boutonniere.
Matching the boutonniere to the suit
White flowers stand out against navy, black, charcoal and dark green suits. Red stands out against grey, navy and black. On a light suit, such as beige, light grey or cream, a red or blue boutonniere adds contrast that white may lack. Avoid a flower that matches the suit fabric exactly, because it will disappear in photos.
How to pin a boutonniere
- Position it on the left lapel, over the heart, about where the buttonhole sits.
- Hold it with the stem pointing down and the flower facing forward.
- Pin from behind the lapel: through the fabric, across the stem and back through the fabric, so the pin is hidden.
- Add a second pin for fuller designs if needed.
- Check it sits straight and does not droop.
Pin it on shortly before photos, and ask someone else to help; it is easier with a second pair of hands.
Who else wears a boutonniere
Besides the groom and groomsmen, boutonnieres are usually worn by the fathers of the couple, and often by grandfathers, ushers, the ring bearer, officiants and readers. Count everyone before you order. Read our corsage and boutonniere guide for the whole party.
Three groom looks
Classic black tie. Black tuxedo, Ivory Duo Boutonniere, groomsmen in Ivory Rose. Timeless and elegant.
Navy and red. Navy suit, Red Romance Boutonniere, bride carrying Crimson Vows. Rich and romantic.
Modern grey. Light grey suit, Ivory Calla Boutonniere, bride carrying a calla lily bouquet. Clean and sculptural.
Keeping it fresh
Keep boutonnieres in a cool place, such as a refrigerator away from fruit, until the groomsmen get dressed. Avoid hugging too hard right after pinning, and keep them out of direct sun. A light mist on warm days helps.
Ordering
Order the boutonnieres with the bridal bouquet so everything coordinates. Bridal flowers need at least 48 hours of notice. Consider ordering a spare boutonniere, since they are small and can be damaged during a busy morning.
Mistakes to avoid
- Pinning on the right lapel.
- Pinning on the pocket instead of the lapel.
- A boutonniere that matches the suit colour exactly.
- Pinning it hours before photos.
- Forgetting the fathers and grandfathers.
Keepsakes
Many grooms keep their boutonniere. Dry it by hanging it upside down in a dark, dry place, then keep it with the bride’s dried bouquet or in a shadow box with the wedding invitation.
The history of the boutonniere
The boutonniere takes its name from the French word for buttonhole, where it was originally worn. Flowers on the lapel were once a common everyday accessory for men, and over time they became a symbol of special occasions, especially weddings and formal dances. Today, the groom’s boutonniere is a small, personal link to the bride’s bouquet and a sign of his role on the day.
Boutonnieres for the whole groom’s side
Once the groom’s boutonniere is chosen, the rest of the party follows. Groomsmen usually wear a simpler version; fathers and grandfathers can wear the same as the groomsmen or a slightly different design to mark their role. The ring bearer can wear a small, light boutonniere. Ushers and readers can be included too.
Coordinating with the mothers’ corsages
The groom’s side often coordinates with the mothers’ corsages. White and ivory corsages pair with white boutonnieres; blue and ivory pairs with blue.
- Ivory Rose Luxe Corsage: An ivory corsage that pairs with white boutonnieres
- Blue & Ivory Luxe Corsage: A blue and ivory corsage that pairs with blue boutonnieres
Matching the bride’s bouquet
The surest way to coordinate is to choose the bride’s bouquet first and pick the boutonniere from the same flower family.
- Ivory Grandeur: An ivory rose bouquet that pairs with Ivory Duo
- Crimson Vows: A red and ivory bouquet that pairs with Red Romance
- Pearl Calla Bridal Bouquet: A calla lily bouquet that pairs with Ivory Calla
Boutonnieres and suit styles
- Tuxedo: a classic white rose or two-rose design.
- Three-piece suit: a fuller boutonniere balances the extra layer.
- Slim modern suit: a calla lily or a single stem.
- Linen or light summer suit: a red or blue boutonniere adds contrast.
- Tweed or textured fabric: baby’s breath or a rose with greenery.
Boutonnieres for same-sex weddings
When both partners wear suits, matching or complementary boutonnieres connect them. Some couples choose identical boutonnieres; others choose the same flower in two colours. Either way, the boutonnieres become the couple’s shared floral detail, and the wedding party’s flowers follow their palette.
Photos of the boutonniere
Ask your photographer for a close-up of the boutonniere being pinned on, often by a parent or best man. It is one of the most emotional moments of the morning. A detail shot of the boutonniere next to the rings or cufflinks also makes a lovely image.
Spare boutonnieres
Boutonnieres are small and delicate, and the wedding morning is busy. Ordering one spare covers a dropped, crushed or forgotten boutonniere without stress.
Choosing the groom’s boutonniere step by step
- Start with the bride’s bouquet. Note the main flower and colour.
- Look at the suit. Choose a flower colour that contrasts with the fabric.
- Pick the style. Classic rose, fuller duo, sleek calla lily or airy baby’s breath.
- Set the groom apart. A fuller design for the groom, a simpler one for groomsmen.
- Order the set together. Include fathers, grandfathers and a spare.
Three wedding party combinations
All white and classic. Groom: Ivory Duo. Groomsmen and fathers: Ivory Rose. Ring bearer: Baby’s Breath. Bride: Ivory Grandeur. Mothers: Ivory Rose Luxe corsages. Clean, timeless and easy to photograph.
Red romance. Groom: Red Romance. Groomsmen: Ivory Rose. Bride: Crimson Vows. Mothers: Classic White Rose corsages. The red connects the couple; the white keeps the party calm.
Modern calla. Groom and groomsmen: Ivory Calla. Bride: Pearl Calla Bridal Bouquet. Mothers: Pearl White Rose corsages. Sleek and sculptural for a city venue.
Boutonnieres through the day
The groom’s boutonniere goes on in the morning, survives the ceremony, the photos, the hugs and often the dancing. Pin it securely, avoid pressing against it during hugs, and keep it out of direct sun between photos. If it shifts, re-pin it rather than letting it droop. By the reception, a well-pinned boutonniere should still look as good as it did at the first look.
Boutonnieres for prom and formal events
The same designs suit prom, graduation dinners and formal galas. For prom, the date’s boutonniere usually matches the corsage. Read our prom corsage ideas for matching pairs.
Etiquette notes
Traditionally, the couple orders the boutonnieres for the wedding party as part of the wedding flowers. The boutonniere is worn for the ceremony and reception, and many people keep it afterwards. It is polite to give fathers and grandfathers their boutonnieres before photos so they are included in every family picture.
Seasonal boutonniere ideas
- Spring: white roses or baby’s breath, fresh and light.
- Summer: blue and ivory for an outdoor, coastal feel.
- Fall: red roses or white roses with greenery.
- Winter: red roses against dark suits, or crisp white with pearls on the bride.
Matching boutonnieres to wedding styles
Classic church or ballroom: white roses, with a two-rose design for the groom. Garden or vineyard: a white rose with greenery. Modern city venue: a calla lily. Rustic barn: baby’s breath with a satin wrap. Cultural celebrations: red, which carries meaning in many traditions. Whatever the style, the boutonniere should feel like part of the same story as the bride’s bouquet.
Questions grooms ask
Does the boutonniere go on the jacket or the waistcoat? The jacket lapel. What if I take my jacket off at the reception? Many grooms move the boutonniere to the waistcoat or simply take it off for the dancing. Can I wear a pocket square too? Yes; keep it simple and in a colour that does not compete with the flower. Will the pin damage my suit? A fine pin through the lapel leaves no lasting mark on most fabrics; pin through the back of the lapel so it is hidden.
Planning timeline
- When the bridal bouquet is chosen: pick the boutonniere style.
- When the suits are chosen: confirm the colour contrast.
- When the guest list is final: count every boutonniere needed, plus a spare.
- At least 48 hours before: bridal flowers need this notice; earlier is better.
- Wedding morning: keep cool, pin before photos.
Boutonnieres for cultural and religious weddings
Many cultures have their own wedding colours and traditions. Red carries meanings of luck and celebration in many families, and a red rose boutonniere honours that. White is traditional in many Western ceremonies. Some couples choose flowers that echo a family tradition or a colour from a traditional outfit. Tell us about any traditions that matter, and we will help you choose a boutonniere that respects them.
Boutonnieres and tuxedos
A tuxedo is a formal garment, and the boutonniere should match its polish. A white rose or a two-rose design looks classic against black satin lapels. Keep the boutonniere compact so it does not overwhelm the lapel, and pin it neatly so the stem does not show. A calla lily also looks elegant on a tuxedo for a modern black-tie wedding.
Boutonnieres with patterned suits
Checks, tweeds and textured fabrics are popular for relaxed and rustic weddings. With a busy pattern, a simple boutonniere works better: a single white rose, baby’s breath or a calla lily. Avoid adding too many colours to an already patterned look.
The groom’s boutonniere and the bride’s bouquet in photos
In couple portraits, the bouquet and boutonniere sit close together. A connected look, such as ivory roses for both, or a red rose on the groom and red and ivory roses in the bouquet, reads as one story. Contrasting looks can also work, as long as they share one colour. Ask your photographer for a close-up of the bouquet next to the boutonniere; it is one of the most charming detail shots of the day.
Boutonnieres for older guests and grandfathers
Grandfathers and older relatives often love wearing a boutonniere; it makes them feel part of the wedding party. Choose a light design, pin it securely and help them put it on. A white rose suits almost any suit or jacket.
Questions to ask before ordering
- What flowers are in the bride’s bouquet?
- What colour are the suits?
- How many boutonnieres do we need, including fathers, grandfathers and a spare?
- Should the groom’s boutonniere be different?
- Where should they be delivered on the wedding morning?
With these answers, the boutonniere order takes minutes and arrives coordinated with the rest of the wedding flowers.
Boutonnieres for different budgets of time
If the wedding is months away, choose the boutonniere when you choose the bridal bouquet so they match perfectly. If it is soon, a white rose boutonniere is the safe choice: it suits every suit and every bouquet. Bridal flowers need at least 48 hours of notice, so order the whole set together as early as you can.
Boutonniere ideas at a glance
- Classic and fuller: Ivory Duo Boutonniere.
- Classic single: Ivory Rose Boutonniere.
- Bold and romantic: Red Romance Boutonniere.
- Modern: Ivory Calla Boutonniere.
- Something blue: Blue & Ivory Duo Boutonniere.
- Light and airy: Baby’s Breath Boutonniere.
The boutonniere moment
On the wedding morning, pinning the groom’s boutonniere is often a quiet, emotional moment, usually done by a parent, a sibling or the best man. Give it a few minutes in the schedule and ask the photographer to be there. It often becomes one of the most heartfelt photos of the day.
Keeping the boutonniere straight
A boutonniere that tilts or droops looks untidy in photos. Pin it with the stem straight down, add a second pin if it is a fuller design, and check it in a mirror before photos. If it shifts during the day, re-pin it; groomsmen can carry a spare pin in a pocket.
More from the collection
Flower Empire has seven collections. These guides cover the rest of the shop.
- Wedding bouquet ideas: all twelve bridal styles, dress matching and the planning timeline.
- Rose bridal bouquets: every bridal design with prices, finishes and party pairings.
- Bridesmaid bouquet ideas: bouquets that complement the bride, with quantities.
- Corsage and boutonniere guide: the full set with prices and worked budgets.
- Red rose bouquets: 20 to 200 roses, boxes and occasions.
- Pink and white bouquets: soft gifts from a single rose to 60.
- Flower box gift ideas: roses ready to display, no vase needed.
Groom boutonniere FAQ
Should the groom’s boutonniere be different from the groomsmen’s?
Usually slightly different, such as two roses instead of one, so the groom stands out.
Which side does the groom’s boutonniere go on?
The left lapel, over the heart, with the stem pointing down.
Should the boutonniere match the bride’s bouquet?
It should echo it, usually by repeating one flower or colour.
What boutonniere suits a navy suit?
White or red roses stand out well against navy.
How do I pin a boutonniere?
Pin from behind the lapel, through the fabric, across the stem and back through, so the pin is hidden.
Who wears boutonnieres at a wedding?
The groom, groomsmen and fathers, and often grandfathers, ushers and the ring bearer.
How do I keep a boutonniere fresh?
Keep it cool, such as in a refrigerator away from fruit, and pin it on shortly before photos.
When should I order boutonnieres?
With the bridal bouquet; bridal flowers need at least 48 hours of notice.
Can both partners wear matching boutonnieres?
Yes. Identical boutonnieres or the same flower in two colours both look great.
Who pins the groom’s boutonniere?
Often a parent or the best man; it makes a lovely photo moment.
$1
Choose the groom’s boutonniere
Rose, calla lily and baby’s breath boutonnieres.
