Metro Creative Connection

This is a time of year when wearable florals become popular. Flowers are something factored into graduation or prom budgets if the goal is to follow floral tradition for these momentous occasions.

But what’s the tradition behind corsages and boutonnieres?

Flowers and special occasions often are intertwined. Floral bouquets or arrangements are gifted for holidays, birthdays and other milestones, like graduation and prom.

Boutonnieres and corsages are traditional, wearable floral pieces. Some may wonder how these blooms became associated with certain celebrations and the proper ways to wear them.

Corsages are frequently worn pinned to a dress or on the wrist. The term “corsage” originates from the French term “bouquet de corsage.” The word “corsage” originally referred to the bodice of a dress. Since the flower was attached to the bodice, eventually the flowers themselves became known as a corsage. Men also wore flowers for special occasions. A single flower called a boutonniere, which translates to “little buttonhole,” was customary on suit jackets.

In the Victorian era, when these traditions originated, flowers and herbs often were worn as a method of warding off evil spirits during special occasions. People of honor donned corsages and boutonnieres to keep themselves safe and healthy from illnesses. Some also surmise that flowers helped ward off the aromas of body odor, as people of past eras did not bathe as frequently as they do today. It once was customary during the 16th and 17 centuries for boutonnieres and corsages to be worn daily. Eventually the practice became something only done for formal events.

As with many traditions from Europe, these customs came with settlers when they populated North America.

Boutonnieres traditionally consist of two or more flowers with greenery and filler, such as baby’s breath. The boutonniere is worn on the left lapel of the suit or tuxedo because it is above the heart. The ideal position is four inches in from the tip of the shoulder, angling outward.

The corsage can be pinned to sleeves or straps, but a wrist corsage is often a safe option because it is most versatile. Most corsages are color-coordinated to the woman’s attire. The floral arrangement business FTD says that couples’ corsages and the boutonnieres do not have to match, but flowers that are color coordinated will provide a harmonious look that pops in photos.

Boutonnieres typically cost around $25 while corsages may cost up to $45 depending on the flowers used.