Boutonnieres vs. Corsages: Making the Right Choice for Your Event

When planning a special occasion, details matter. Whether it’s a wedding celebration in The Beaches, a prom in East York, or a meaningful milestone in Leslieville, the right floral accents help guests stand out and bring a touch of elegance to your event. Two of the most classic floral accessories, boutonnieres and corsages, play a central role in tying together your theme and personal style. But what exactly is the difference between a boutonniere and a corsage, and how do you pick the best fit for your celebration? At Kingston Road Flower Market, we’re here to guide you through your options with expert advice and locally crafted floral artistry.

Understanding Boutonnieres and Corsages

Boutonnieres and corsages are petite floral arrangements designed to be worn, but their purpose and placement differ. 

A boutonniere is traditionally a small arrangement of one or two blooms accented with greenery, worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo, typically by grooms, groomsmen, fathers of the couple, or prom attendees. 

A corsage, on the other hand, is slightly larger and may be worn on the wrist, pinned to a dress, or even carried. Corsages are a staple for mothers of the couple, grandmothers, female prom guests, and distinguished guests at formal events. 

Boutonnieres: Classic Style for Every Occasion

A well-crafted boutonniere is more than a simple flower pinned to a jacket—it’s a meaningful accessory that complements your theme and enhances your attire. Kingston Road Flower Market specializes in crafting boutonnieres that suit every kind of event:

- Weddings: Coordinate the groom’s and groomsmen’s boutonnieres with the bridal bouquet for a harmonious look. For Toronto’s diverse weddings, we offer both classic and contemporary floral choices, all featuring the freshest local blooms.

- Proms & Formals: Add a stylish, youthful touch with trendy flowers or match colors to your date’s dress or tie.

- Milestone Events: From graduations to retirement parties, a bespoke boutonniere helps mark the moment with flair.

Boutonniere flowers often include roses, orchids, or even seasonal accents like berries or succulents, all beautifully finished with lush greenery and tailored ribbon.

Corsages: Timeless Elegance for Women and Honored Guests

Corsages are a beautiful way to honor mothers, grandmothers, and special female guests at your celebration. With a wider range of styling options, corsages may be:

- Worn on the wrist with a decorative band for comfort and style

- Pinned to a dress or jacket to coordinate with formalwear

- Carried as a petite clutch arrangement for a contemporary, modern look

At Kingston Road Flower Market, our experienced designers create corsages to match your color palette, bouquet style, or event décor. We use locally grown blooms, including miniature roses, freesia, carnations, and lush foliage for a sophisticated finish.

Answering a Common Question: Should I Choose a Corsage or Boutonniere?

A trending question for our clients is, “Should I get a corsage or a boutonniere for my event?” The answer depends on both tradition and personal style:

- For men and boys in the wedding party or for formal dances, boutonnieres are customary.

- For women and girls, corsages add elegance and are especially appropriate for mothers, grandmothers, and dates at proms.

- For inclusive and modern celebrations, don’t feel restricted by tradition—mix and match according to your guests’ preferences or attire.

Seasonal and Local Considerations

Choosing local, seasonal flowers for your corsages and boutonnieres has many advantages. They’re fresher, longer-lasting, and reduce environmental impact—all values embraced by Toronto communities. At Kingston Road Flower Market, we regularly update our designs to reflect seasonal availability, offering fresh spring flowers in April or vibrant autumnal hues come fall.

Key Benefits of Custom Boutonnieres and Corsages

Why choose personalized floral accessories from a local shop? Kingston Road Flower Market offers:

- Expert design services for one-of-a-kind arrangements

- Fresh, Ontario-grown flowers tailored to your color theme and preferences

- Flexible pickup and delivery to areas like The Danforth, Upper Beaches, Oakridge, and Woodbine-Lumsden

- Matching packages for bridal bouquets, bridesmaid flowers, and boutonnieres or corsages, ensuring a unified event look

Tips for a Successful Floral Order

To get the best results for your event:

- Consult with your florist early to share your color scheme, preferred blooms, and any special touches

- Match the size and style of floral accessories to event attire for visual harmony

- Don’t forget to ask about bulk packages for groups, such as bridal parties or school formals

Celebrate Your Special Occasion with Kingston Road Flower Market

Whether you’re planning a traditional wedding, a lively school prom, or any event that deserves an extra touch of beauty, the right boutonnieres and corsages offer timeless elegance. Kingston Road Flower Market’s skilled florists are delighted to help you make the right choice, providing expert guidance, local quality, and a personal approach. 

Contact us or stop by our Kingston Road shop to explore our portfolio and order your perfect floral accessories. Let us help you craft memorable moments with flowers designed just for you.