As a cultural expert and someone who has a keen interest in the nuances of social events, I can provide a detailed answer to your question about corsages and boutonnieres.

Traditionally, corsages and boutonnieres have been a part of formal events such as proms and weddings. They are a beautiful and elegant way to express a personal touch and to add a decorative element to the attire of the individuals involved.

Corsage: A corsage is a small bouquet or arrangement of flowers that is worn by the female date. It is typically pinned to the dress or wrist, and it serves as a sweet and romantic gesture from the male date. The corsage is often designed to complement the colors and style of the girl's dress, creating a cohesive and visually appealing look.

Boutonniere: A boutonniere, on the other hand, is a floral design that is worn by the male date. It is pinned to the lapel of his suit jacket and is meant to match or accent the corsage of his date. The boutonniere is a subtle yet significant detail that adds to the overall presentation and style of the outfit.

Now, regarding the purchase of these floral accessories, it is a matter of tradition and personal preference. In many cases, the male date will buy the boutonniere for himself, while the female date will purchase the corsage. This is often done as a way to show thoughtfulness and to ensure that the colors and styles of the accessories match or complement each other.

However, it is not uncommon for the male to also buy the corsage for his date. This can be a sweet gesture and a way to surprise and delight his date with a beautiful and well-matched corsage. The decision to purchase the corsage and boutonniere can depend on several factors, including the couple's budget, the level of formality of the event, and the personal preferences of the individuals involved.

When choosing a corsage and boutonniere, it is important to consider the following:


1. Matching Colors: The colors of the flowers should match or complement the colors of the dress and the suit. This creates a harmonious and visually pleasing effect.


2. Style: The style of the corsage and boutonniere should be in line with the formality of the event and the personal style of the individuals wearing them.


3. Quality: High-quality flowers that are fresh and well-arranged will make a better impression and last longer throughout the event.


4. Size: The size of the corsage and boutonniere should be appropriate for the event and the attire. They should not be too large or too small, but rather should be proportionate and balanced.


5. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice of corsage and boutonniere should reflect the personal preferences of the individuals involved. It is important to choose flowers and designs that both the male and female dates will be happy with and that will enhance their overall appearance.

In conclusion, while it is traditional for the female date to buy the corsage and the male date to buy the boutonniere, there is no hard and fast rule. The decision to purchase these floral accessories can be based on a variety of factors, and it is ultimately up to the couple to decide what works best for them. The key is to choose corsages and boutonnieres that are well-matched, high-quality, and that reflect the personal style and preferences of the individuals involved.

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Flowers and accessories usually match or accent the girl's prom dress. What is a boutonniere? A boutonniere is the floral design worn by guys on their lapels. The boutonniere is bought for the guy by his date and often matches the colors and style of his date's corsage.Mar 25, 2011read more >>