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‘Tis the season…for prom, that is.

Prom has featured in many famous movies and TV shows, so when it’s time to handle the details, it can feel like the pressure is on.

One thing you shouldn’t stress about? Choosing a corsage. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide to choosing a beautiful corsage that your date will love.

Know the Difference: Corsage vs. Boutonniere

First, though, you should know the difference between a corsage and a boutonniere.

A corsage is what probably comes to mind when you think of prom. It’s a single flower or several small flowers either pinned onto clothing or worn on an elastic band around the wrist. Typically, a corsage is given to women.

Then, there’s the boutonniere, which is essentially the male equivalent of a corsage. It’s a single flower or collection of small flowers, sometimes with a bit of fern or baby’s breath as an accent. It’s always pinned on the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket.

Corsages and boutonnieres are most often seen on two occasions: American proms and weddings. They’re an extra little touch to show your date that you care about all the little details that make this day memorable.

Choose a Corsage

With that in mind, let’s talk about how to choose a corsage.

For the sake of simplicity, we focused on choosing a corsage to go with a dress. But if your date is wearing a suit and tie, don’t fret–you can apply the same basic principles when choosing flowers for them. Just substitute a dress shirt, tie, and suit for a dress.

After all, everybody deserves a prom experience that’s memorable for all the right reasons.

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With that in mind, let’s dive in.

Choose a Dress First

Before choosing a corsage, you should zoom out and focus on the bigger picture first: choosing a dress (or suit and tie).

If you’re the person choosing the corsage, talk to your date about what they have in mind for prom attire.

Your main focus should be on color. If they want to surprise you, they don’t have to show you everything, but you should have a sense of what kind of thing you’re dealing with.

Let’s say, for example, that your date is wearing a jewel green dress. In that case, you wouldn’t want something like a yellow rose–they would look like they stepped out of a Mardi Gras ball.

You should also ask what kind of dress (or suit) your date has in mind. If they’re wearing a dress, does it have a glittery bodice? Is there lace? Geometric cutouts? Is it a more modern dress, or more of a classic prom dress?

The same basic idea applies to suits. Is it more of a classic suit? Did they go all in for funky patterns or bold color contrasts?

What you’re driving at here is the style. An old school red rose and baby’s breath corsage will look somewhat out of place if your date went for a trendy look.

Determine a Color Scheme

While you’re at it, you should determine an overall color scheme for the evening.

You don’t want to be that awkward couple that completely clashes in photos. Take the time to figure out what colors your date likes and what colors you can agree on. If you can, figure out a color scheme before your date chooses their attire so that you can coordinate.

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If your date already chose their attire, ask them what color scheme you’re dealing with so you can plan accordingly. Even a photo of the fabric and an idea of the style will help point you in the right direction.

When all else fails, if your date went all-in to look like a showstopper, you can’t go wrong with a subdued look and corsage that complements them without competing.

Brainstorm

The best thing you can do to simplify this process is to talk to your date.

For example, ask them what kind of flower they might like.

Ask what their favorite flower is, and their favorite color of that flower. If they don’t have one, ask whether they want a flower with textures and colors that make a statement (like a purple orchid) or whether they want something with clean, classic lines (like a gardenia or a calla lily).

Once you have these details, it’s much easier to go to a florist and ask for help. A good florist can help point you in the direction of the flower you’re looking for. Bring a photo along–a florist can help you figure out what colors will work best.

Choose Your Attire Based on the Dress and Corsage

Remember, when choosing your corsage and attire, you should try to coordinate with your date as much as possible.

If you’re choosing a suit and tie to coordinate with a dress, go for a suit that shows your personality while also showcasing colors that complement your date.

If you’re both wearing dresses, showing each other pictures or shopping together is a good idea. Dresses have far more variation than suits, so you want dresses that won’t compete with each other.

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If you’re both wearing suits, you’re dealing more in subtleties, since suits are cut similarly. Look at the texture and pattern of your date’s suit, shirt, and tie, and choose a combination (and flower) that complements.

Whatever the case, choose a flower and ribbon that matches colors featured in both of your outfits. This way, it will look like a natural addition to your ensemble.

Need More Style Tips?

A corsage is just one small detail in one amazing night. But if you choose the right one, it’s a detail that makes a statement.

If you need more style tips for your big night, check out our blog for more ideas, like this post on natural prom makeup ideas.