Pin a boutonniere on the left lapel, over the heart, with the stem pointing down and the flower facing forward. Push the pin through from behind the lapel so it stays hidden, and put it on shortly before photos. The steps below work for a wedding, a prom or any formal event.
How to pin a boutonniere in four steps
- Hold the boutonniere against the left lapel, at about the height of the buttonhole, with the stem pointing down.
- From behind the lapel, push the pin through the fabric, across the stem and back through the fabric so the pin is hidden.
- Check that the flower sits upright and faces forward. Add a second pin for larger pieces such as the two-rose Ivory Duo Boutonniere.
- Ask the wearer to stand naturally and move their arms to make sure it stays put.
Where does a boutonniere go?
On the left lapel, over the heart. Place it on the lapel itself, not on the breast pocket. If the jacket has a buttonhole on the left lapel, the boutonniere sits just over it. A pocket square goes in the breast pocket, so the two do not overlap.
Handle it by the stem
Hold the wrapped stem rather than the petals. Avoid pressing the rose head to move it, and leave a little space around the flower so it is not squashed against the jacket. If the jacket is rented or made of delicate fabric, check what it allows before you use a pin.
Keep it fresh until photos
Keep boutonnieres in a cool place, such as a refrigerator away from fruit, until the wedding party gets dressed. Keep them out of direct sun and avoid hugging or pressing against the flowers. In warm weather, a light mist of water on the petals before wearing can help. Pin them on shortly before photos.
Who wears one, and which to choose
The groom, groomsmen and fathers of the couple usually wear them, and grandfathers, ushers, the ring bearer and officiants often do too. Count everyone before ordering. Our boutonnieres run from $19 to $29: the Baby’s Breath Boutonniere is $19, and the Ivory Rose and Red Romance boutonnieres are $24. For prom, match it to the corsage, for example the Classic White Rose Corsage with the Ivory Rose Boutonniere.
Boutonniere pinning FAQ
Which side does a boutonniere go on?
The left lapel, over the heart, with the stem pointing down and the flower facing forward.
How do you keep the pin hidden?
Push the pin through from behind the lapel, across the stem and back through the fabric.
When should I put on a boutonniere?
Shortly before photos. Until then, keep it in a cool place away from fruit and direct sun.
How much is a boutonniere?
Our boutonnieres cost $19 to $29.
How far ahead should I order for a wedding?
Bridal flowers need at least 48 hours of notice, so order the boutonnieres with the rest of the wedding flowers.
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