How to Choose the Perfect Boutonniere for Prom?

What’s one of the last things people think about before prom, but somehow ends up being one of the hardest decisions to make?

The Boutonniere 

By the time prom season rolls around, you've probably already chosen your outfit, figured out transportation, and maybe even coordinated plans with friends. Then comes the boutonniere, a small detail that suddenly raises a lot of questions. Should it match your date's corsage? What flower works best? Does it need to match your suit exactly? 

What if we told you that choosing a boutonniere isn't that complicated? Yes, with a few simple decisions, you can find something that complements your look, coordinates your date’s flowers, and feels right for the style of prom you're attending. 

Before you place an order, let's walk through the key things worth considering.

What’s a Prom Boutonniere?

A prom boutonniere is a small floral arrangement worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket. Traditionally worn by male students attending prom, it serves as a stylish accessory that complements the overall outfit. The boutonniere is typically pinned to the left lapel, near the heart, and is often designed to coordinate with a date's corsage.

It may seem like a minor detail, but a boutonniere helps complete a formal prom look and adds a personal touch. It can reflect your style, tie together colour choices, and create a coordinated appearance in prom photos.

Important Things to Go Through 

Consider the Outfit You Gonna Wear 

What are you planning to wear to prom? A classic black tuxedo, a navy suit, or something a little more unique? Before choosing a boutonniere, take a look at your outfit. Even florists often recommend starting with your suit since its colour and style can help narrow down your options and make it easier to find flowers that complement your overall look. And remember, the goal isn't to match your suit exactly; it’s to choose flowers that complement it and complete the overall look.

Here's a quick guide to pairing boutonniere colours with common prom suit colours:

Black Suits

White, red, or burgundy flowers work well with black suits because they stand out without looking out of place.

Navy Suits

Soft colours like white, blush, and light blue complement navy suits without making the overall look feel too dark.

Grey Suits

Grey pairs nicely with lighter flowers since they add a bit of colour while keeping the look clean and modern.

White Suits

A white suit creates the perfect backdrop for bolder flower colours that you want people to notice.

Burgundy Suits

Cream and white flowers help balance the richness of a burgundy suit and keep it from feeling too heavy.

Still finding it hard to choose? Go with a white rose with a little greenery - it's one of those combinations that works with almost everything.

Coordinate With Your Date's Corsage

Are you attending prom with a date? If so, their corsage can make choosing a boutonniere much easier. However, that doesn't mean both floral pieces need to look exactly the same. In fact, they usually look better when they're coordinated rather than identical. The goal is to make them feel connected without looking like they were copied and pasted from one another.

One simple approach is to use the same flower variety in both arrangements. For example, if your date's corsage features roses, choosing a rose boutonniere can help create a cohesive look.

Another thing is the colour that’s also worth considering. Look for complementary shades as they feel more natural. Let’s say your date’s corsage includes red flowers, then your boutonniere could feature blush accents or a similar soft tone rather than an exact match.

Pick the Right Flower 

As a florist, one of the most common questions we hear before prom is, "Which flower should I choose for my boutonniere?" The truth is, there isn't one right answer. Some students want something classic and timeless, while others prefer a flower that feels a little more unique. The best choice usually depends on your personal style, outfit, and how you want your boutonniere to look in photos.

Here are some of the most popular options:

Roses

A prom favourite for a reason, roses offer a classic look that's easy to coordinate with almost any outfit or corsage.

Spray Roses

Smaller than traditional roses, spray roses are a good choice if you want something a little more modern and understated.

Carnations

Carnations are often chosen for their affordability and durability, making them a practical option for prom night.

Orchids

If you're looking for something a bit more elegant or distinctive, orchids can help your boutonniere stand out.

Ranunculus

With their soft, layered petals, ranunculus flowers have become popular for students who want a stylish, contemporary look.

Greenery Boutonnieres

For a simple and minimalist appearance, some students skip flowers altogether and opt for a boutonniere made primarily of greenery.

Flower Durability and Style Comparison

Match Your Prom Style 

Here's something people don't always notice: the "best" boutonniere isn't necessarily the most expensive or the most eye-catching one. It's the one that feels like it belongs with the rest of your look.

For example:

• If you're wearing a formal tuxedo, a large orchid boutonniere can look stunning, but it might feel a little out of place with a minimalist outfit.  
• Going with a traditional style? Classic flowers like roses are usually the right choice. 
• For more modern or trendy styles, prefer spray roses, orchids, or a greenery-focused design.
• And if your goal is to stand out, unique flowers and bolder colour combinations can help add a bit of personality.

At the end, the point is to make your boutonniere feel like a finishing touch, not a separate piece that was chosen without considering the rest of your outfit. 

What Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Boutonniere?

The mistakes we've mentioned below are ones florists regularly encounter during prom season. So they're worth keeping in mind before placing your order. 

Choosing a Too Large Flower

A boutonniere should complement your outfit, not become the centre of attention. Oversized flowers can look bulky, especially in photos and can end up overpowering the rest of your look. 

Ignoring Your Outfit

Sometimes people choose a flower they like without considering what they're wearing. Keep in mind that your boutonniere doesn't need to match your suit exactly, but yes, it should work well with its colour and style.

Forgetting About the Corsage

If you're attending prom with a date, it's worth coordinating your boutonniere with their corsage. They don't need to be identical, but they should look like they belong together.

Prioritizing Looks Over Durability

Some flowers look beautiful when they're first arranged, but may be more delicate during a long evening of photos, dinner, and dancing. Consider how well your flower choice will hold up throughout the event.

Ordering at the Last Minute

Many people assume they can order their boutonniere a day or two before prom and still get exactly what they want. While same-day and next-day delivery are often available in Milton and across the GTA, prom season keeps florists extremely busy. Placing your order ahead of time helps ensure you get your preferred flowers and avoids any unnecessary last-minute stress. 

A Final Note on Choosing Your Prom Boutonniere 

At first, choosing a boutonniere can feel like one more thing to figure out before prom. But once you consider your outfit, your date's corsage, your personal style, and the type of flower you'd like to wear, the decision becomes much easier.

There isn't a single "perfect" boutonniere for everyone. The right choice is the one that feels natural with your outfit and helps complete your overall look.

If you're still unsure which style or flower is right for you, speak with a florist at Eloquent Flora. We handcraft a variety of thoughtful prom arrangements, including corsages and boutonnieres. Our years of experience and expertise have helped us guide countless students in choosing designs that match their outfit, coordinate with their date, and stay fresh throughout the night. Contact us today!