Opting out of boutonnieres because you think they look outdated could mean missing out on an opportunity to add personality and charm to your wedding day look. Whenever couples approach me for wedding flower advice, among the questions they ask is if boutonnieres are out of style for weddings.
Since becoming a wedding flower specialist in 2005, I’ve helped couples incorporate boutonnieres into their weddings. For this guide, I’m going to help you see whether boutonnieres can suit your wedding style or not.
Are Boutonnieres Out of Style for Weddings?
The popularity fluctuates over time, yet boutonnieres remain in style for weddings. Although some people believe that boutonnieres are out of style, they are still seen at many weddings and can add a touch of elegance to the groom’s attire. While boutonnieres remain a staple for traditional weddings, there are alternatives nowadays.
Opinions vary on the current style status of boutonnieres. However, they remain a prevalent fixture at many weddings, providing a classic and elegant touch. The choice of whether or not to incorporate a boutonniere often depends on personal preferences and the overall style of the wedding.
Reasons Why Boutonnieres Are Still in Style for a Wedding
After designing and preparing wedding boutonnieres for more than two decades, I believe boutonnieres continue to hold their place in wedding fashion for several reasons.
| Reason | Benefits |
| Tradition | Boutonnieres have been part of formal wedding attire for generations, which is seen as a timeless tradition for the groom’s look. |
| Sophistication | A boutonniere elevates the formality of a tuxedo or suit, adding polish and elegance to the groom’s style. |
| Coordination | Matching the flowers to the bridal bouquet is a way to complement and coordinate the bride and groom’s wedding day looks. |
| Personalization | Boutonnieres allow grooms to express individual style through unique flowers, greenery, and other creative materials. |
Follow Timeless Tradition
First, boutonnieres are a timeless tradition, representing a groom’s connection to his bride through matching or coordinating flowers. This symbolic aspect adds elegance and a touch of romance to the wedding day.
Personalize and Coordinate Outfits
I’ve observed that boutonnieres continue to be a part of formal menswear for events. For instance, I create boutonnieres to polish and personalize a gentleman’s attire. As a result, they provide visual balance when worn with the wedding party’s outfits, supporting cohesion in photos and throughout the event.
Unleash Your Creativity
Lastly, using boutonnieres encourages creativity. During meetings, I let couples express their personalities with unique flower choices and arrangements. Creativity can help express your emotions and bond over unexpected activities, leaving a positive impact on your marriage.
Benefits of Using a Wedding Boutonniere
Boutonnieres remain a stylish and essential component of wedding fashion, bringing elegance and coordination to the event. You’ll need many flowers at a wedding, and incorporating boutonnieres in your ensemble has several advantages.
- Follows timeless tradition and symbolism
- Enhances the overall look and feel of the wedding party
- Allows for creativity and personalization
- Supports visual cohesion in wedding photos
Reasons Why Boutonnieres Are Not Trendy for a Wedding
I’ve witnessed how wedding trends have shifted in recent years. For example, many couples incorporate non-traditional elements into their big day. This has made some people consider boutonnieres as being out of style.
There are a few reasons for this trend, which can be better understood by considering the following points:
- Non-traditional weddings: Some couples who opt for more whimsical or unconventional weddings might choose alternatives like lapel pins, pocket squares, or no boutonniere.
- Changing preferences: Couples break from convention and showcase their personalities by incorporating unique and fun elements into their weddings. This has led to a decline in the use of traditional boutonnieres.
- Boutonniere alternatives: I’ve seen a rise in alternative options for groomsmen, such as pocket squares with a small floral design or non-floral accessories like pins or buttons that complement the wedding theme.
Ways to Keep Boutonnieres in Style for Your Wedding
While boutonnieres are considered optional today, their use at a wedding is ultimately up to your preferences and the overall theme.
Consider the Theme
When choosing boutonnieres for your wedding, it’s essential to consider the overall theme. The right boutonniere can help tie together the look and feel of your wedding, whether it’s a classic, modern, or rustic theme. I consider the following aspects when designing boutonnieres:
- The colors of the wedding
- The style of the decor and venue
- The types of flowers in the arrangements
Match Your Wedding Attire
Another crucial factor in keeping boutonnieres in style is matching them with your wedding attire. The boutonniere should complement, not clash with, the outfits of those who will wear flowers at the wedding. These are the things I do as an event designer and stylist to ensure harmonious coordination.
- Match the boutonniere color to the ties or pocket squares
- Consider the scale of the boutonniere in relation to the lapel width
- Choose flowers that create a visually appealing contrast with the suit or tuxedo fabric
Select a Boutonniere Based on Personal Style
Don’t forget your style when selecting a boutonniere for your wedding. While trends and themes are valuable, the boutonniere should reflect your taste and personality. Here are a few ways to infuse your personal touch into your boutonniere:
- Use your favorite flowers or incorporate meaningful blooms
- Customize the design with unique elements, such as feathers or herbs
- Experiment with non-traditional materials, like succulents or berries
Related Questions
Do Guys Still Wear Boutonnieres at Weddings?
While boutonnieres are considered optional by some grooms today, the majority still wear them as a classic wedding accessory that dresses up their look and connects them to the bridal style. Most grooms opt to wear a boutonniere, whether they embrace a modern minimalist aesthetic or want a more traditional wedding day look.
Are Wedding Boutonnieres Necessary?
Though not absolutely required, boutonnieres are necessary when you want to follow a time-honored tradition. It offers a sophisticated finishing touch to the groom’s attire and visually ties him to the floral designs chosen by the bride.
Who Typically Wears Boutonnieres at Weddings?
The groom and groomsmen will generally wear matching boutonnieres at most weddings as part of formal attire. The fathers of the bride and groom also commonly wear boutonnieres to coordinate with the bridal party.
Conclusion
While some modern grooms may forego them, boutonnieres remain a timeless way for couples to express personal style and complement the bridal look. By working with skilled florists like Jennifer Cole Florals, you can create custom designs that add elegance and refinement without being overly traditional.
