

Fruit, especially apples, releases ethylene gas which causes flowers to wilt faster.Īside from boutonniere-worthy events, there are a few special occasions when you ought to wear ornaments on your lapel. No fruit allowed: this might seem strange, but you should store your flowers away from the fruit bowl. Keep in the fridge: if you have to cut your boutonniere before wearing it, leave it in a glass of water in the fridge. You can also get versions which sit on top of the lapel, adding a talking point to your outfit. This can slightly bulge on your chest, but you get extra points for vintage style. Use a small vase: yep, you heard that right! These were popular in Edwardian times and hide behind the lapel fold to keep flowers hydrated. Use flower sealant: florists often store special sealant, designed to keep the petals and stems hydrated for longer periods than water. Just don’t overdo it - you don’t want it to look wet, or to splash water on your shirt or jacket. Spray with water: this is a simple way to keep your boutonniere looking fresh throughout the day/night. Whatever the type, you can keep yours looking good with the following tips: If in doubt, remember that less is more: it’s better to slightly under-do it than to walk around like a clown. The goal isn’t that everyone is staring at your lapel, but that your pin integrates with everything else you’re wearing to bring attention to what matters most: your face. However, even lighter colours should always work with your necktie or pocket square.įinally, remember that the whole point of dressing is to highlight your own facial and physical attributes. For example, you could mix a light green with a midnight blue suit, especially if there is a touch of metal in the pin. They also tend to be more playful than bolder pieces.

Pastel / saturated pins or flowers pins: these are more discreet and work well with other accessories. A basic knowledge of colour theory and some common combinations will go far. Just make sure you don’t clash with other colours you might be wearing.

So either go all gold, or all silver.īright, colourful lapel pins: these usually work better with a neutral shirt so their contrast can work at its best. Metal pins: try and match the metal on your outfit, including your lapel pin, cufflinks, tie clip, belt, watch and any rings.
