How To Put On A Boutonniere –How to Put on a Boutonniere: A Step-by-Step Guide If you’ve been invited to a wedding or formal event, you may have been asked to wear a boutonniere. A boutonniere is a small flower or floral arrangement that is traditionally worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big impact on your overall appearance. However, if you’ve never worn a boutonniere before, you may be a little unsure of how to put it on. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to put on a boutonniere, so you can look your best at your next formal event. Step 1: Choose the Right Boutonniere Before you can put on a boutonniere, you need to choose the right one. Boutonnieres come in many different styles and colors, so you’ll want to choose one that complements your outfit. If you’re wearing a classic black tuxedo, you can’t go wrong with a white or red rose boutonniere. However, if you’re wearing a navy suit or a more colorful outfit, you may want to choose a boutonniere with more color or texture. Make sure to choose a boutonniere that is fresh and in good condition, as wilted or damaged flowers will detract from your overall appearance. Step 2: Prepare the Boutonniere Once you’ve chosen the right boutonniere, you’ll need to prepare it for wearing. If the florist has provided you with a pin, remove it from the packaging and attach it to the back of the boutonniere. If the florist has provided you with a ribbon, tie it around the stem of the flower. Make sure the pin or ribbon is securely attached to the boutonniere, so it doesn’t fall off or move around while you’re wearing it. Step 3: Find the Right Placement The next step is to find the right placement for your boutonniere. Traditionally, the boutonniere is worn on the left lapel, just above the heart. However, if you prefer to wear it on the right lapel, that’s perfectly acceptable as well. The most important thing is to find the right placement for your body type and outfit. If you’re wearing a jacket with a narrow lapel, you may need to adjust the placement of the boutonniere slightly higher or lower to ensure it doesn’t look cramped or crowded. Step 4: Attach the Boutonniere Now that you’ve found the right placement, it’s time to attach the boutonniere. Hold the boutonniere in place with one hand, and use the other hand to insert the pin through the lapel and through the stem of the flower. Make sure the pin goes through the stem at a slight angle, so it doesn’t damage the flower. If you’re using a ribbon, you can tie it around the lapel and the stem of the flower instead of using a pin. Make sure the ribbon is tied securely, so it doesn’t come undone while you’re wearing the boutonniere. Step 5: Adjust and Check Once you’ve attached the boutonniere, take a step back and check your appearance in a mirror. Make sure the boutonniere is centered and straight, and that it’s not too high or too low on your lapel. If the boutonniere is too loose or if it’s moving around, you can use a second pin to secure it in place. Make any necessary adjustments, and then you’re ready to go! Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is it necessary to wear a boutonniere to a formal event? While it’s not strictly necessary to wear a boutonniere to a formal event, it’s a nice touch that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outfit. 2. Can I wear a boutonniere with a casual outfit? Yes, you can wear a boutonniere with a casual outfit, but you’ll want to choose a more relaxed and informal style of boutonniere to match your outfit. 3. Can I wear a boutonniere if I’m not wearing a jacket? While traditionally, boutonnieres are worn on the lapel of a jacket or suit, you can still wear a boutonniere if you’re not wearing a jacket. Simply attach the boutonniere to your shirt or vest instead. 4. How long will a boutonniere last? The lifespan of a boutonniere will depend on the type of flower used and how well it’s been cared for. Generally, a boutonniere will last for several hours, but it may start to wilt or droop after a few hours. 5. Can I make my own boutonniere? Yes, you can make your own boutonniere if you have the right materials and a little bit of creativity. There are many tutorials and guides available online that can help you create your own unique boutonniere.