2017 First-Class Forever Stamp - Wedding Series: Celebration Boutonniere

2017 49c Celebration Boutonniere

Buttonhole flowers, or boutonni¨¨res, are traditionally donned for special celebrations.They add elegance to an everyday business suit and the finishing touch to a formal tuxedo.

Boutonni¨¨res first became popular in 19th century England. When Prince Albert and Queen Victoria married, she presented him with a small bouquet of flowers. As a gesture of appreciation and love, Prince Albert cut a hole in the lapel of his suit and placed a flower through it. After that, the prince ordered his tailor to cut similar holes in the rest of his jackets. Prince Albert¡¯s popularity meant this fashion trend quickly caught on.

Now most modern suit jackets come with a buttonhole in the lapel and a small loop (about an inch down) sewn on the reverse side. The proper way to attach a boutonni¨¨re flower is by sliding the stem through the buttonhole and securing it with this loop.? Traditionally, boutonni¨¨res should not be pinned to the lapel or consist of more than one flower.? The most formal boutonni¨¨res feature a white or red carnation, blue cornflower or a gardenia.? The flower should be freshly cut and not too big or small.

Whether worn for a wedding, holiday, or other celebration, boutonni¨¨res make sophisticated additions to any outfit and are the mark of a true gentleman.