Staff Writer
Prom
season is coming up and corsages/boutonnieres are a tradition no one wants to
miss out on. Flowers have been a popular accessory for formal occasions since
the ancient Greeks, who believed floral accessories to not only be decorative,
but also powerful tools in warding off evil spirits. Throughout history they have also been
utilized as a natural deodorizer and can provide for an aroma to go with the
night.
Corsages/boutonnieres
are traditionally made with carnations, but roses, alstoemerias, freesias, and
orchids are also frequently used. Depending on the color the flower is said to
have a different meaning. Deep red represents love and affection, white
represents purity, and yellow represents disappointment (a meaning you may want
to keep to yourself.)
Typically
the girl will purchase the boutonniere for the boy, and the boy will buy the
girl’s corsage. However, to avoid a mismatched floral disaster, plan the color
scheme coordination beforehand.
Corsages
can be worn either on the wrist or pinned to the left side of the chest;
however, it is important to take into consideration the type of dress. Pinned
corsages often drag down lightweight or strapless dresses. Boutonnieres are
worn on the left side of the jacket.
Don’t
hesitate to give the local florist your corsage order a week in advance; there
will be many teenagers placing orders and the more prior notice the better.
