A seemingly small and insignificant detail when in the throws of wedding planning, the simple boutonniere can elevate the Groom and Groomsmen's attire to another level.
So how did this tradition start? When did Grooms first don these floral adornments and how have they evolved over the years?...
HISTORY
Boutonnieres didn't begin life on the lapel of suit. Men have worn floral adornments throughout history and in many different cultures including the Ancient Egyptians, Aztecs and Medieval knights. It is this latter category of men who were awarded flowers and ribbons as 'favours' from noble ladies. Knights believed that such favours imbued
them with strength and skill and they acted a form of good luck charm. The common people also wore the colours of their Lord's house into battle, making it easier to determine who was on which side in the fight.
PLACEMENT
In the Victorian era, boutonnieres became recognisable as we know them today, with gentlemen placing a cut flower through their lapel button hole when attending formal events or wooing the ladies. It was telling that only the best quality suits have buttonholes on the lapel, so the flower acted as a rank of social class as well as an attractive adornment. It is still possible to wear your boutonniere like this today, but many men opt for a pin instead, making placement and attachment easier.
Regardless of how you attach it, it is imperative that the boutonniere goes on the left side of the jacket (so when looking at it from afar, it appears on the right side).
CONVENTION:
As with most things wedding related, there are conventions surrounding the wearing of boutonnieres that have built up over the years. It is traditional for a Groom to have a different flower in his boutonniere to anyone else to distinguish him from his Groomsmen. Most boutonnieres are matched to the bridal bouquet giving an over all harmonious look between the Bride and Groom's parties. Also, the boutonniere is an accessory that needs to be worn with confidence. You are not required to wear it at anything else besides a formal event, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t. Boutonnieres are a symbol of style and status that can be worn at any time, but just be sure to wear it with pride and confidence wherever you choose to do so.
FLOWER CHOICES:
Traditional choices include roses and carnations, but these days anything goes, with Grooms using thistles, lavender and even feathers to create a unique look. Ultimately, the boutonniere is about male adornment and status, so have fun choosing something that uniquely represents you.
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