How to Wear Lapel Flowers

  Accessorising the lapel of a blazer, jacket, or coat with lapel flower pins adds a touch of style to any outfit. The hint of colour and texture takes the overall outfit to a different level. If you wear a lapel flower pin correctly, it captures people's attention. Find out how to wear lapel flowers with pride.

How to Wear Lapel Flowers 

Lapel flowers are a great way to add personality and style to your outfit. Whether you're gearing up for a wedding or a formal event or want to elevate your everyday look by dressing like an Italian gentleman, correctly wearing a lapel flower can make a significant impact. But it's not just about sticking it on; you must know how to wear it right to stand out. Let's look at the details so you can confidently wear your lapel flower.

Choose the Correct Lapel Flower 

When you select a lapel flower, it's essential to pick one that complements your overall look and the occasion. Typically, lapel flowers are worn on the left lapel of your jacket. Lapel pin placement is also essential. Most lapel flowers have a closure with a small thumbtack-style pin hidden behind the lapel for a clean and discreet look. However, modern designs sometimes feature the pin bar visible on the front, adding a bold detail to your outfit. Bold styles, like polka dot lapel flowers, can create a playful yet sophisticated touch, making your look stand out even more. Experiment with both styles to see which best suits your aesthetic and the impression you want to make.

Consider the Event 

For outdoor events that require a more casual look, you will find that small lapel pins or flowers are ideal. Its nature is more relaxed, so that you can combine them with denim shirts and cotton handkerchiefs. Choose a tie with an original pattern, such as a floral tie or paisley, or a unique bow tie to make your lapel flower stand to complement the entire casual look. Take advantage of these events to play with your accessories and show off a unique flair – don't take it too seriously.

For a formal event, skip the traditional pin and opt for a lapel flower to add a touch of sartorial elegance. A black lapel flower pairs beautifully with a classic black tuxedo and white shirt, creating a sleek, timeless look. A red lapel flower stands out against a navy or charcoal grey suit, bringing a pop of colour. 

For a softer touch, a pastel colour, like light pink or a baby blue lapel flower, complements a light grey or beige jacket, especially when paired with a subtle, matching tie. A green velvet lapel flower works well with deep green or burgundy suits, adding richness to your ensemble.

For a professional work or networking event, you can achieve a formal, stylish office look by combining a silk scarf with a tie and a handkerchief in the same material, offset with a silk lapel flower. This combination will look very classy and professional and exude elegance and confidence.

Pick the Correct Colour 

The lapel flower and pin are tiny accessories that bring colour to a toned-down outfit. The bright lapel flower is a leading trend in the winter, mainly because the weather is a bit damp, and gentlemen want to add a touch of colour to their day. If you wear a dark suit, be it navy blue, black or anthracite, any coloured lapel flower will be suitable. 

Suppose your outfit has more colours in the tie or the shirt. In that case, the rule is that there is a reminder of the predominant colour in the lapel flower or pin to complement the entire outfit without taking away from the main accessories. Opt for sober colours such as beige, navy blue or brown lapel flowers when in doubt.

Create Contrast

If you do not like wearing ties or bow ties, you should opt for a fun lapel pin or flower to add attention to your outfit for work and formal events. We recommend combining the colour of your handkerchief with your lapel pin or flower whilst contrasting it with the colour of your shirt or sweater. This will make your outfit have pops of colour and look very stylish at the same time. Another suggestion is adding a textured pocket square, such as cotton or linen, to create more depth and a slightly casual look.

Mix Patterns

Mixing patterns can be tricky, but it adds dimension to your outfit. Avoid matching the same pattern throughout your outfit—this can overwhelm the look. Instead, combine prints with solid colours or complementary textures. 

For example, if you wear a bold striped necktie, opt for a simple grey lapel flower or a subtle metallic pin. When wearing multiple patterned accessories, like paisley or floral, stick to muted colours for the lapel flower to avoid clashing. Grey, navy, or deep green lapel flowers work well with most patterns, balancing the overall look without competing.

Place the Lapel Flower on Your Jacket Correctly 

To wear a lapel flower correctly, position it on the left side of your jacket's lapel, above the breast pocket. Most lapel flowers have a small pin that attaches behind the lapel, making the flower sit flat and discreetly. If your flower has a visible pin bar, ensure it's placed neatly so it doesn't detract from the overall look. Depending on your style, you can show or hide the stem—both options work, but the stem should generally not be visible. If unsure, a smaller lapel flower adds a subtle yet elegant touch without overwhelming your outfit.

Different Types of Lapel Flowers

Lapel flowers come in various styles, from simple designs like a single rosebud to more intricate patterns. Some feature additional elements, such as leaves, adding a natural touch that complements the main flower. You can find lapel flowers made from unique materials like feathers, beads, or fabric, creating a textured look. The variety of designs allows you to express your style while adding a distinctive flair to your outfit. Whether you prefer a classic, minimalist flower or a bold design with extra embellishments, a lapel flower fits every occasion.

When Can You Wear a Lapel Flower Pin?

Lapel pins and flowers are long reserved for grand occasions and work. Wearing accessories in the buttonhole of a blazer or suit jacket comes from a long tradition that served to show a social rank or a sign of wealth. Gentlemen who want to add a subtle addition to their outfits now wear lapel flowers to show off their taste. If you're hesitating to wear a lapel flower, book this accessory for a date or an event that is not too formal. It can easily be worn daily, and you will slowly feel more comfortable wearing it for other events, such as weddings and work.

Lapel Flowers for Weddings

The groom's lapel flower should complement the bride's bouquet, usually by reflecting the primary colours or flowers in a smaller form. Please attach it to the buttonhole of your jacket, ensuring it matches the wedding's theme and colour palette. Ensuring your lapel flower pairs well with your entire outfit, especially your shirt and tie, is essential. This small detail not only connects you with your bride but also helps to complete your wedding look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do lapel flowers go?

Lapel flowers are traditionally worn on the left lapel of a jacket above the breast pocket.

What is the correct way to wear a lapel pin?

To wear a lapel pin correctly, place it in the buttonhole of the left lapel and secure it so the pin stays in place without overpowering the overall look.

Does the flower go on the left or right lapel?

The flower is traditionally worn on the left lapel.

What does a lapel flower symbolise?

A lapel flower symbolises elegance and attention to detail. It is often worn to signify a gentleman's fashion sense or to commemorate a momentous occasion.