Corsage and Boutonniere: The Complete Guide

When you picture a wedding, you likely imagine the bride's bouquet and the ceremony arch. But there is a smaller, equally important floral detail that often gets overlooked until the last minute: the corsage and boutonniere. These petite arrangements are worn by the people closest to you—your parents, grandparents, and wedding party—and they appear in nearly every formal photo.

Choosing the right corsage and boutonniere is not just about matching colors. It is about comfort, durability, and complementing the overall style of your wedding decor. Whether you are planning a formal ballroom event or a relaxed boho wedding, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Are Corsages and Boutonnieres?

Who Wears What at a Wedding

One of the most common questions from couples is: "Who exactly needs a corsage or boutonniere?" While there are no strict rules, here is the traditional breakdown that works for most weddings.

Choosing the Right Flowers

The flowers you choose for your corsage and boutonniere should complement your bridal bouquet and the overall color palette of your wedding. However, not all flowers work well for these small arrangements. You need blooms that are sturdy, hold their shape, and can survive being pinned or strapped to a wrist for hours.

Popular Styles and Designs

The style of your corsage and boutonniere should match the formality and theme of your wedding. Here are the most popular styles you will see this year.

For a Classic, Traditional Wedding

Stick with a single rose or a small cluster of roses in white, blush, or red. Wrap the stem in satin ribbon and add a pearl pin. For the boutonniere, a single rose with a sprig of baby's breath or ivy is timeless and elegant.

For a Rustic or Boho Wedding

Embrace texture and asymmetry. Use dried flowers, succulents, thistles, and trailing ribbons. A boutonniere made of a small succulent and a sprig of dried lavender is effortlessly stylish. For corsages, a wrist version with a cluster of wildflowers and a leather or twine band fits the aesthetic perfectly.

For a Modern or Minimalist Wedding

Less is more. A single, striking bloom—like a calla lily, an orchid, or a large ranunculus—is all you need. Skip the filler flowers and let the bloom speak for itself. A simple, thin ribbon in a neutral color keeps the look clean and sophisticated.

For a Glamorous or Black-Tie Wedding

Go for luxury. Orchids, peonies, and garden roses are perfect. Add sparkling accents like rhinestone pins or a delicate crystal bracelet for the corsage. The boutonniere can include a small, elegant berry or a metallic leaf for a touch of shimmer.

Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Making your own corsages and boutonnieres is one of the easiest ways to save money on your wedding flowers. It is also a fun activity to do with your bridal party. Here is a simple, foolproof method.

What You Will Need

How to Make a Boutonniere

1. Prepare Your Flowers

   Cut the stems of your main flower and any accent flowers to about 1-2 inches. Remove any leaves that will be below the binding point.

2. Arrange the Design

   Hold the main flower in one hand. Add a sprig of greenery behind it, and any accent flowers or berries. Arrange them so they look balanced but slightly asymmetrical for a natural feel.

3. Wire and Tape

   Starting just below the flower heads, wrap floral tape tightly around the stems, working downward. The tape will stick to itself and hold everything in place.

4. Wrap with Ribbon

   Starting at the top of the taped area, wrap your ribbon around the stems, overlapping slightly as you go down. Secure the end with a pin or a small dot of floral glue.

5. Finish and Store

   Trim the ends of the stems neatly. Store your boutonnieres in the refrigerator (not the freezer) until the morning of the wedding. If using silk flowers, store them in a cool, dry place.

How to Make a Wrist Corsage

1. Create the Floral Cluster

   Follow the same steps as the boutonniere to create a small, flat floral cluster. Aim for a design that is about 3-4 inches wide.

2. Attach to the Wrist Band

   Purchase a pre-made wrist band with a small plastic or metal platform. Use floral glue or wire to securely attach your floral cluster to the platform. Make sure it is very secure—you do not want it falling off during the reception!

3. Add Ribbon and Accents

   Tie a small bow or add ribbon streamers to the back of the corsage. You can also add pearl pins or rhinestones for a touch of glamour.

4. Check Comfort

   Try the corsage on your own wrist to ensure the band is not too tight or too loose. It should sit comfortably without sliding around.

Etiquette and Placement Tips

Where to Pin a Boutonniere

The boutonniere should be pinned to the left lapel of the jacket, just above the heart. If the jacket has a buttonhole, the flower should sit in or just above it. Never pin it to the pocket square or the collar. The stem should point downward, and the flower should face outward.

How to Wear a Corsage

Wrist corsages are worn on the left wrist. Pin-on corsages should be pinned to the left side of the bodice, near the shoulder or on the waistline, depending on the dress design. Always pin to a sturdy part of the fabric to avoid tearing delicate materials.

Who Pins the Boutonniere?

Traditionally, the groom's boutonniere is pinned by his mother or the best man. The father of the bride's boutonniere is often pinned by the bride or the mother of the bride. Do not stress about this—anyone can help pin a boutonniere, and it is a sweet moment to share.

Corsage & Boutonniere FAQs