Many associate corsages and boutonnieres with weddings, but there are plenty of occasions outside of saying “I do” that warrant wearing flowers. At WildFlower Florist, serving Arnold and Linthicum Heights, our expert florists have put together a comprehensive list of occasions for wearing flowers and the different kinds of floral accents available.

Traditional Choices for Wearable Flowers

Boutonniere

Fresh in Fuchsia Boutonniere

A boutonniere is the traditional wearable floral piece for men, but it can also be worn by women. Boutonnieres usually feature one or two flowers and a few embellishments. They are worn pinned to a jacket lapel or the front of a dress.

Corsage

Roses and Ribbons Corsage

Corsages are the traditional floral piece for women. They are small floral arrangements that are usually attached to a wristlet and worn around the wrist, like a bracelet.

Alternatives to Corsages and Non-Traditional Boutonnieres

When it comes to wearable flowers, there are plenty of choices — especially for women. Women can have flower crowns or other accents that can be worn in their hair. There are also floral anklets, sashes, and flowers designed to adorn different parts of a formal gown. If you prefer to stick with a traditional wrist corsage, but would like something more modern, we recommend a wreath corsage which wraps all the way around the wrist.

Other than the boutonniere, there aren’t really many choices for men, but you can get creative when it comes to what the boutonniere’s made from. Some modern designs feature succulents, instead of flowers. You can also incorporate interesting elements like berries, herbs, wheat, leaves, or feathers. For a little sparkle, ask for pearls or brooches.

When Is It Appropriate to Wear a Corsage, Boutonniere, or Other Wearable Flower?

Wearable flowers aren’t just appropriate for weddings, they’re perfect for a variety of special occasions or formal events honoring a special person.

Prom or Homecoming

The tradition of giving your date to prom or homecoming a corsage or boutonniere still stands. Boutonnieres are standard for the boys, but girls have several options in addition to corsages. They can wear flowers that attach to the straps or sashes of their dresses or flowers in their hair.

Graduation

To make the day extra-special, gift your graduate a boutonniere or corsage to wear with his or her graduation gown and cap.

Party 

If you’ll be attending a particularly festive or fancy party, you can wear a flower or bring one for your date.

Special Event

Wearable flowers are appropriate for any special event. If you’re hosting a gala, fundraiser, art show, or something else. If it’s a formal occasion or you are a guest honor, feel free to wear flowers.

Birthday

You can make a birthday celebrant feel extra-special with the gift of a corsage or boutonniere to wear to dinner, his or her party, or for a fancy night out.

Mother’s Day

Flowers are always loved on Mother’s Day. Your mother will feel very loved and honored with a corsage or boutonniere to wear out to brunch.

Boutonnieres, Corsages, and More!

A corsage or boutonniere is the perfect way to honor someone, distinguish them, or show them how much you care. For expert assistance and advice ordering a boutonniere, corsage, or other wearable floral accents for your special someone, we welcome you to contact WildFlower Florist or stop by one of our shops.