How to Pick the Perfect Boutonniere

How to Pick the Perfect Boutonniere

A boutonniere, or “buttonhole” in French, is a small but important part of a groom’s wedding attire, and may also be worn by his groomsmen and other important family members. Pinned to the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo it makes a handsome fashion statement that is meant to complement the bouquet and wedding color palette. While usually made of flowers, berries, greenery, other non-floral items, heirlooms, and feathers can also play a part. Here are five things you need to know in order to choose the right boutonniere/s for your wedding.

Pink rose boutonniere with paisley tie - Photo by La Vie Photo - San Juan Island WA
Pink rose boutonniere with paisley tie - Photo by La Vie Photo - San Juan Island WA

1) Color coordinate using the bride’s bouquet and wedding colors for inspiration. Boutonnieres should have at least one blossom or accent from the bouquet, and a color that is used in other flowers, linens, or decor. And of course, you’ll want the color to look great against the lapel and go well with the rest of your look.
 

2) Keep the size small enough to enhance the groom’s outfit without competing against it. Big blossoms are best for bouquets and are hard to manage as boutonnieres.

White Bachelor Button and Peach Rose Boutonniere, photographed by The Reeses, Knoxville wedding photographers
White bachelor button and peach rose boutonniere - photographed by The Reeses -  Knoxville 
White floral boutonnieres with rannuculus and lillies - photo by Greg Finck - France
White floral boutonnieres with rannuculus and lillies - photo by Greg Finck - France

3) Ensure flowers stay hydrated and cool, and pin the boutonnieres on just before the ceremony, especially if you are choosing something delicate like baby's breath that may only look fresh for a few hours.

Groom with baby's breath boutonniere, photograph by Christin Eide, Norway elopment photographer
Groom with baby's breath boutonniere, photograph by Christin Eide, Norway elopment photographer

4) For warm weddings, choose a boutonniere with blossoms that won’t wilt or fall apart. While delicate flowers may look lovely, they won’t stay that way in hot sun and heat. If you’re having an outdoor summer wedding when the temperatures will soar consider blooms like roses, dahlias, and zinnias, or non-floral options, and leave tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths that wilt quickly for cooler spring days.
 

Golden yellow boutonniere - photographed by Bridgwood Wedding Photography - UK
Golden yellow boutonniere - photographed by Bridgwood Wedding Photography - UK
White callalily boutonniere - photographed by Petronella Photography - New Jersey
White callalily boutonniere - photographed by Petronella Photography - New Jersey
Ring bearer wearing green chrysanthemum boutonniere - photographed by Cindy Desau Photography - Pennsylvania
Ring bearer wearing green chrysanthemum boutonniere - photographed by Cindy Desau Photography - Pennsylvania
Peacock feather boutonniere - photo by Jerry Ghionis - Las Vegas wedding photographer
Peacock feather boutonniere - photo by Jerry Ghionis - Las Vegas wedding photographer

5) Pin it like a pro. Position the boutonniere just under the buttonhole of the left lapel. Turn the lapel over and push the pin from underneath to over the boutonniere and back under, as you would in making a large stitch. Use two pins about 3/4 inch apart so it doesn’t pivot and point the wrong direction. Take a look at everyone who will be part of the ceremony and be sure that all the boutonnieres are similar in placement. 

Groom getting his boutonniere fastened - photo by Procopio Photography - D.C. photographer
Groom getting his boutonniere fastened - photo by Procopio Photography - D.C. wedding photographer

Check out our Fashion Gallery for more inspiration, and best wishes for your wedding day!

X