Whether you call them buttonholes or boutonnieres, it might surprise you that these small but stylish accessories come with their own set of rules. So if you're wearing one yourself, or you've been given the task of applying a buttonhole for someone else, then we have you covered with this post, that will tell you everything you need to know! Surely, it can't be that difficult we hear you ask?  It's just a pin and a few florals, right? But to ensure you have a seamless attempt, with the least amount of damage to these delicate micro floral arrangements (and the person wearing it!), we're sharing some expert tips on how to apply buttonholes or boutonnieres, plus the intriguing etiquette surrounding them.

What is a Buttonhole or Boutonniere

When attending weddings or other formal events, men and women often wear boutonnières, which are floral accessories placed on the lapel of their tuxedo, suit jacket or dress. When a woman wears one, it tends to be called a corsage.

Who Wears a Buttonhole?

The delicate floral pins are mostly worn by the gents of the wedding party such as the groom, groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers and page boys. However, they can also be worn by the women in the family also, such as the bride, mothers, grandmothers, honoury guests, etc.

Buttonhole Style Rules

Generally the colours and flowers in a buttonhole arrangement is selceted to complement the bride's bouquet and the other floral arrangements, but it should also pop against the groomswear. The groomsmen's buttonholes don't have to match the groom's, as you can have one special one for the man of the hour, and complementary buttonholes for the groomsmen. And of course they don't have to be made from flowers at all. There are some great options made from fabric, feathers, buttons and charms, which look great, and will last a lifetime as a keepsake. We have a whole post with bold buttonhole ideas here!

On Which Side Should a Buttonhole be Worn?

Here's where the etiquette surrounding buttonholes and boutonnieres really kicks in;

• For the gents, traditionally, the buttonhole should be worn on the left-hand side, above the heart, and pointing towards the left shoulder.
• For the ladies, the buttonholes should be worn on the right-hand side. Alternatively, with the help of some ribbon you can create a beautiful wrist corsage too.

How to apply a buttonhole?

1. Firstly, wash your hands! The buttonhole is one of the final prep steps, the last thing you want is smudgy fingerprints on your outfit or crisp shirt.
2. Ensure the direction is correct. The flower's stem and head should be positioned upright so that they are towards the shoulder.
3. Once positioned, from beneath the lapel punch the pin through the fabric and through the top of the stem either diagonally or straight down.
4. Now re-weave the pin through the lapel's front as if you were making a stitch and give it an extra wiggle to ensure security. If in doubt add another pin!

Who can help apply a buttonhole?

Depending on who is with you on the day, ensure they are familiar with the technique. A few trial runs will only result in extra punch holes in your lapel along with a few damaged florals if it's a fresh flower buttonhole. Ideally, for picture purposes, it's a beautiful shot when a family or wedding party member applies the buttonhole. Once the picture is taken, you can also ask your florist or wedding planner to secure it.

Expert Buttonhole Tips

1. Depending on the type of buttonholes, some may be heavier than others and cause your buttonhole to flop if not attached correctly, or if it's too heavy for the material. Ensure you consult with your florist before choosing a particular type.
2. If your florist is delivering the flowers on the morning of the wedding, you may ask them to assist in attaching the buttonhole as they know best. Ultimately, make sure the best man carries some extra pins, after a few hugs or dance moves, we promise they will come in handy!
3. Make sure you or your bridal party do not have any specific allergies to the types of flowers that are used.

Looking for the perfect suit? You'll be in great hands with these amazing groomswear brands, or we have a great post featuring 10 Cool Accessories Brands For Grooms and Groomsmen.