Have you ever been at a wedding or formal event and noticed someone constantly adjusting a wilted boutonniere?
Or maybe you've been the one fidgeting with a lapel flower that didn’t quite survive the heat, the hugs, or the long ceremony.
These small blooms may seem like a detail—but for us florists, they’re a symbol. A boutonniere tells a story, represents a relationship, and finishes off an outfit with elegance.
But how do you choose the right one? With fresh, dried, and faux options on the table, what really lasts?
Here is everything you need to know about choosing the perfect boutonniere that looks great and holds up throughout the entire day—whether it's for a wedding, prom, graduation, or any moment worth remembering.
What Exactly Is a Boutonniere?
A boutonniere, traditionally worn on the left lapel of a suit or blazer, is more than just a stylish detail.
It’s a floral accent that traces its roots back to centuries-old traditions where knights wore their lady’s colours into battle—an emblem of loyalty and love.
Today, it’s a must-have for grooms, groomsmen, prom dates, graduates, and even guests at formal events.
But for all its elegance, it’s easy to underestimate just how much impact a boutonniere can have, especially when it starts to droop halfway through the occasion.
As florists, we’ve had countless conversations with customers choosing their boutonniere to match the season, their suit, or their partner’s bouquet.
And let’s not forget the coordination with the ever-popular wedding corsage—often worn by mums, grandmothers, or significant female figures. Each pairing tells a story.
Material Matters: Fresh, Dried, or Faux?
This is the part where most customers pause. Do they want that soft, fragrant rose that smells just as good as it looks?
Or perhaps a rustic sprig of lavender that carries personal meaning and lasts longer?
Or maybe something completely worry-free—like a faux boutonniere made from silk or preserved blooms.
Fresh boutonnieres are always in demand for weddings and black-tie events. The look is unmatched—lush, soft, alive. But they’re delicate.
As much as we love working with fresh roses, orchids, or ranunculus, they do have their limitations. Heat and constant movement can easily wear them down.
That’s why we always advise storing them in a cool place and only pinning them on just before the event starts.
Dried flowers, on the other hand, have become a favourite for those seeking a natural, boho charm.
We love crafting dried boutonnieres for outdoor weddings, vintage-themed ceremonies, or couples who appreciate the muted tones and textures of nature.
They also photograph beautifully and can be kept as keepsakes. You can read more on the pros and cons in our journal entry Fresh vs. Dried Flowers: Which One Should You Gift?.
Then, there’s the faux boutonniere—a practical, modern-day solution. Faux florals can look surprisingly realistic, and when made with care, they offer a stylish, no-stress option.
Plus, for destination weddings or events where transport is involved, they travel well and stay intact.
Choosing Based on the Occasion
Every boutonniere has a purpose and occasion, and selecting the right one really depends on the context.
For weddings, the groom's boutonniere is often crafted to echo the bridal bouquet or overall floral palette.
We’ve had grooms come in requesting specific flowers to honour a loved one, match their partner’s bouquet, or simply because it reminds them of their childhood garden.
It’s personal. For groomsmen, boutonnieres are usually a simpler version of the groom’s—a subtle way to differentiate while still keeping things coordinated.
Prom boutonnieres often get paired with wrist corsages. Teens love to customise them with school colours or coordinate them with their date’s dress.
Durability is key here—think long car rides, lots of dancing, and an endless stream of selfies.
For graduations and formal dinners, boutonnieres bring that touch of charm without going overboard.
We usually recommend something lightweight and subtle—maybe even a dried mini thistle or preserved baby’s breath for a touch of flair without fuss.
Style Meets Function – What’s Trending Now?
We’ve seen trends come and go, but the best boutonnieres are the ones that balance aesthetics with practicality.
Minimalist boutonniere styles are on the rise—single blooms, clean lines, and unfussy textures.
Think one sprig of rosemary with a crisp white lisianthus or a single preserved rose in neutral tones.
For outdoor weddings or tropical settings, these hold up better in humidity and heat.
Boho-inspired designs with dried flowers, bleached ruscus, bunny tails, and earthy tones are perfect for rustic barn weddings or beachside vows.
Not only do they last, they look effortlessly stylish. You can explore more ideas in our favourite roundup: Say ‘I Do’ to These Stunning Wedding Flower Trends of 2025.
Meanwhile, some couples still want the traditional pocket flower look but with a fresh twist—like incorporating herbs (thyme, lavender, mint) for fragrance and meaning.
Keeping It Fresh: Florist Tips for a Boutonniere That Lasts
Whether you’ve chosen fresh, dried, or faux, we always recommend a few golden rules to make sure your boutonniere stays intact:
First, store fresh boutonnieres in a cool, dry space until you’re ready to use them. Heat and humidity are the biggest culprits for wilting.
If your event is outdoors, we’ll often recommend hardier flowers or pairing the fresh boutonniere with subtle dried accents to increase durability.
Second, secure it properly. We use quality pins or magnets depending on the lapel fabric.
A common mishap we’ve seen? A boutonniere that’s too heavy or placed too low—it ends up flopping about or falling off entirely.
Lastly, don’t pin it on too early. For weddings, we time this right before photos or ceremony start.
For proms or graduations, a bit of floral glue can work wonders if you’re worried about movement.
Where to Get Your Boutonniere in Singapore
If you're looking for a Singapore florist who understands not just the art, but also the meaning behind each boutonniere, we’d love to help.
At Hello Flowers!, we've helped create boutonniere designs for every kind of event—from elegant church weddings to dreamy garden affairs and bustling proms.
We also offer custom boutonniere designs tailored to your outfit, floral theme, and preference.
Whether you're leaning towards fresh, dried, or faux flowers, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure what you wear feels personal, fits perfectly, and lasts through every photo, toast, and moment of celebration.
And if you're pairing it with a corsage, don't forget to check out Wedding Corsage Ideas That Will Steal the Spotlight (Not Just for Mums!) for fresh inspiration.
Conclusion: Your Boutonniere, Your Story
Every boutonniere tells a story—whether it’s crafted with a favourite flower, designed to honour someone special, or simply made to complete a dashing look.
At the end of the day, choosing between fresh, dried, or faux isn't just about appearance. It's about what fits the moment, the memory, and the person wearing it.
And while we've worn many hats as florists—from fixing fallen boutonnieres during wedding photos to re-styling a dried sprig for a last-minute grad—one thing remains clear.
These little blooms carry big meaning.
So next time you're picking out your boutonniere, ask yourself: who’s it for, and what do you want it to say?
When chosen right, a boutonniere isn’t just a flower—it’s a statement that stays with you, long after the day is done.