Sunday, January 02, 2011

Buttonholes - where do they originate from?

Buttonholes are one of those traditions that nearly every bridal party follows but none probably know why and where the idea originally came from!

So where did it come from? Well, I am reliably informed that it originates from ancient Greek times when the groomsmen wore little bouquets of flowers and herbs close to their hearts in a bid to ward off any evil spirits.

Then in medieval times, Knights of the realm romantically attached the colours of their beloved to their chest as a public display of their love - aaahhh!

And so to modern times; the men attach a single bud or a miniature bouquet of flowers which typically co-ordinates with the wedding colour scheme, to their lapel. The traditional choice is a single rose or carnation but these days couples are more adventurous in their choice of buttonhole and will often opt for something more exotic such as an Orchid or a Lily. The Groom typically wears something different to the rest of the groomsmen and the Father of the Groom.

Whilst the menfolk tend to keep it simple, the ladies' corsages will often be embelished and so more elaborate and ornate. The trick is to keep them light as attaching a heavy corsage or buttonhole is a nightmare particularly to sheer and delicate fabrics.

You are never going to be able to co-ordinate a corsage with every female member of the bridal party's outfit so try not to go overboard and take advice from your florist who should be well-versed in this.

And remember - a gentleman wears his buttonhole on the left, a lady wears her corsage on the right!

Added 07/01/11 - Click HERE for some inspiration for your buttonholes:

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