Corsage Flowers Types

Corsages are a timeless and elegant accessory often worn at formal events like weddings, proms, and galas.

Choosing the right flowers for your corsage is key to creating a beautiful arrangement that complements your attire.

Overview of Corsage Flowers

A corsage is a small bouquet of flowers worn on the wrist or pinned to clothing. Corsages typically contain 3-5 blooms and feature one focal flower complemented by smaller accent flowers and greenery.

When selecting corsage flowers, the three main considerations are:

• Flower Type: Choose blooms that will last throughout the event without wilting. Hardy flowers like roses, ranunculus, and carnations are best.
• Color: Pick flower colors that coordinate with your attire and accessories. White and pastels work universally.
• Scent: Fragrant flowers enhance the corsage experience. Gardenias, freesia, roses, and jasmine offer lovely aromas.

Corsages often match boutonnieres in color, allowing couples to present a unified look. For proms, the guy traditionally provides the corsage and the girl supplies his boutonniere.

Key Takeaway: When selecting corsage flowers, prioritize hardy, color-coordinated blooms with nice fragrances.

Most Popular Corsage Flowers

Certain flowers stand out as go-to choices for corsages based on their durability, wide color range, and classic beauty. Here are the most popular corsage flowers:

Roses

Roses are the quintessential corsage flower. They come in every color and look elegant in arrangements. Spray roses feature smaller blooms on branching stems, perfect for corsages. Roses hold up well out of water, making them a top pick.

Carnations

A budget-friendly option, carnations offer incredible color variety. Their ruffled, full petals add texture and volume. Carnations are long-lasting and perfect for corsages. Plus, they can be dyed custom colors.

Orchids

Orchids lend modern sophistication with their exotic spotted petals. Phalaenopsis orchids offer durability and come in white, pink, purple, and yellow. Mini orchids work nicely in corsages.

Ranunculus

Ranunculus make eye-catching focal flowers with their dense, layered petals and brilliant colors. Though delicate looking, ranunculus withstand corsage wear. Their globe shape offers fullness.

Chrysanthemums

Known for abundance of petals, chrysanthemums (or “mums”) provide body and beauty. Button mums are small, compact varieties fitting for corsages. Mums hold up well and cost less than most flower options.

With hardy blooms in every hue, roses, carnations, orchids, ranunculus, and chrysanthemums make excellent corsage choices.

Corsage Color Pairing Tips

Color coordination is central to corsage selection. Here are tips for pairing corsage flowers with your outfit:

• Match colors exactly for unified perfection. Provide a fabric swatch to the florist.
• Choose hues from the same color family for a cohesive look. Try lighter and darker shades.
• Opt for contrasting colors to make the corsage pop against your attire. Complimentary colors like orange and blue look vibrant together.
• Mix coordinating neutrals like blush, ivory, cream for flexibility. Add a pop of color with ribbons or accessory blooms.
• Incorporate metallic elements like gold or silver flowers and accents to enhance glitzy eveningwear.
• Focus on one predominant color and add small accents of one or two other hues. The focal color should match your outfit.
• Select white flowers for a classic look on any color dress. White offers clean elegance.

Strategic color pairing creates a polished, put-together look. Match, complement, or choose white corsage flowers to coordinate beautifully with your attire.

Corsage Arrangement Styles

From focal flowers to decorative embellishments, corsage components combine to create different arrangement styles.

Single Flower Corsage

A single flower makes a simple, elegant statement. Roses, orchids, and lilies work nicely solo. Surround the flower with accent greenery and embellishments. Ferns, myrtle, and seeded eucalyptus add fullness. Ribbons, pearls, beads, and lace provide ornamentation.

Mixed Flower Bouquet Corsage

Incorporate 2-4 flower varieties for visual interest. Use one focal flower like a rose or orchid in a dominant color. Fill in with smaller accent flowers like spray roses, freesia, or waxflower. Pull colors from your outfit. Add ornamental details and greenery for texture.

Flower Petite Corsage

Feature 3-5 mini versions of a flower for a petite, coordinated look. Try mini calla lilies, roses, or gerbera daisies. Incorporate dainty ribbons and beads. Opt for a coordinating wristlet rather than a band. Scale down boutonnieres to match.

Wristlet Corsage

Wristlet corsages feature a corsage secured to a decorative wrist bracelet. Glitzy options include pearl, rhinestone, or glittery wristlets. For modern simplicity, try leather, metal, or satin materials. Attach a single focal bloom or tiny arrangement to the wristlet.

Whimsical Corsage

Get playful with unexpected whimsy. Incorporate unique embellishments like feathers, brooches, fabric flowers, or toy charms. Choose a focal flower with wow-factor like a vibrant gerbera daisy. Add wispy feathers or a fabric flower for a pop of fun.

From single stems to glam wristlets, corsage styles range from minimalist to ultra-creative. Craft a look that reflects your personality.

Corsage Wearing Options

Today, corsages offer more versatility than just pinning to a dress. Here are modern ways to wear your corsage:

• Wrist corsage: The most common option, with flowers secured around the wrist by an elastic band or ribbon. Often made smaller to fit comfortably.
• Wristlet corsage: Flowers attached to a bracelet or bangle. Provides a built-in wrist accessory.
• Pin-on corsage: Traditionally pinned to the shoulder or bodice of a dress. Requires a dress that can handle pin holes.
• Magnetic corsage: Attaches to dresses easily with magnets instead of pins. Prevents fabric holes.
• Handtied corsage: A mini nosegay bouquet held in the hand but not worn. Offers flexibility to carry or set down.
• Hair corsage: Small arrangement on a hair clip or comb. Accentuates an updo hairstyle.

Modern options like wristlets and magnets expand corsage wearing possibilities beyond pinning. Choose the method that best suits your style and dress.

Corsage Size Guide

Scale matters for a properly proportioned look. Follow these corsage size guidelines:

• Focal flower: 2-4 inches in diameter
• Accent flowers: Under 2 inches
• Flower count: 1 focal bloom plus up to 4 accents
• Overall size: Roughly 4 inches or less across
• Band/ribbon: Maximum 1 inch width

For a wrist corsage, keep the arrangement lightweight and sized to sit comfortably on the wrist without overwhelm or slipping.

Pin-on corsages should not be so large or heavy that they pull down delicate fabrics. Err on the petite side.

Boutonnieres are sized 1-2 inches to remain proportional on men’s lapels. Match corsage and boutonniere sizes.

Petite arrangements in scale with the body placement look best. Avoid oversized corsages that appear gaudy.

When to Give and Wear Corsages

Beyond prom and weddings, corsages brighten up formal events year-round.

Common corsage-worthy occasions:

• Proms & formals
• Homecoming dances
• Weddings
• Quinceañeras (15th birthday)
• Sweet 16s
• Anniversary celebrations
• Valentine’s Day
• Mother’s Day
• Graduations
• Military balls
• Charity galas
• Date nights
• Birthdays

For prom and formals, the guy traditionally gives his date a corsage and she supplies his boutonniere. However, any special person can gift a corsage to honor someone they care about.

For weddings, brides often choose corsages for mothers, grandmothers, and bridal party members. The groom traditionally gifts the bride’s corsage.

Corsages help mark life milestones and special occasions beyond just proms. Surprise someone by gifting them a corsage for their next formal or celebratory event.

Corsage Care Tips

Corsages are designed to look beautiful throughout an event without frequent watering. To extend the life of your corsage:

• Store in the refrigerator before the event.
• Avoid direct heat and sunlight that cause wilting.
• Mist occasionally with floral spray if needed.
• Carry extras pins, tape, or bands for quick fixes.
• Keep fabric taut when pinning to prevent sagging.
• Transport in a box or bag to and from the event.
• Remove from wrist band immediately after wearing to avoid bruising the blooms.
• Trim stems and place in water overnight to prolong vase life after the event.

Proper handling keeps corsages vibrant for photos and dancing all night long. Plan transportation and temporary storage with care.

How to Order Corsages

For custom corsage perfection, time your order right and communicate key details:

• Order 1-2 weeks in advance for best selection and personalized service.
• Provide your outfit/dress color for ideal matching. A fabric swatch helps.
• Mention flower preferences or meanings that appeal to you.
• Specify any important sensory factors like strong fragrances to avoid.
• Note if anyone has flower allergies to prevent reactions.
• Mention the event date, time, and location to confirm ideal delivery windows.
• Communicate if you need matching boutonnieres. Provide recipients’ flower/scent preferences.
• Provide contact information and schedule a time to finalize the designs.

Advance planning ensures you get the specialized corsage you envision. Provide ample lead time and key details for florists to deliver your dream accessories.

Budgeting for Corsages

In most cases, expect to spend $20-60 per corsage, depending on intricacy and flower types. Here are corsage costs:

• Simple single flower: $15-25
• Mixed flower bouquet: $25-40
• Fancy wristlet styles: $40-60
• Matching boutonniere: $5-15

Lavish prom or wedding corsages with exotic blooms or ornate accents fall on the higher end. Budget-friendly options include carnations, daisies, and mini gerbera daisies.

When ordering multiple corsages, florists usually offer discounts for bulk orders. Ask about deals for ordering bridesmaid bouquets along with corsages.

With so many variables, corsage costs vary. Provide your budget upfront to guide florists to blooms that fit your price range.

DIY Corsage Tips

Crafting your own corsage takes some skill but provides cost savings and personalization. Follow these DIY tips:

• Purchase quality flowers from a wholesaler, grocery, or florist. Get extra in case of breakage.
• Choose flowers that will last out of water for hours like roses, carnations, mums, and lilies.
• Gather supplies like floral tape/stems, ribbon, corsage backings, pins, scissors, and wire cutters.
• Cut stems evenly at an angle and remove excess leaves and thorns.
• Arrange flowers as desired and bind stems together with floral tape.
• Affix ribbon and decorations. Attach to corsage backing for wrist or pin style.
• Store in the refrigerator until the event. Mist flowers occasionally to stay fresh.

With proper planning and materials, creative types can DIY elegant corsages for a fraction of the cost.

Corsage Flower Recommendations

When selecting your corsage blooms, the possibilities are endless! Here are top flower suggestions for every style and season:

Focal Flowers

• Roses
• Ranunculus
• Calla lilies
• Orchids
• Anemones
• Peonies
• Gardenias
• Stephanotis
• Carnations
• Mums

Accent Flowers

• Spray roses
• Freesia
• Hydrangea
• Waxflower
• Lily of the valley
• Seeded eucalyptus
• Astilbe
• Hypericum berries
• Mini gerbera daisies

Seasonal Picks

Spring: tulips, sweet peas, lilacs, hyacinths

Summer: sunflowers, dahlias, poppies, lisianthus

Fall: mums, roses, asters, carnations

Winter: amaryllis, camellias, hellebores, poinsettias

Whatever your style, budget, and event – with this guide, you are ready to choose picture-perfect corsage flowers to complement your formalwear for a special day to remember.

Frequently Asked Questions About Corsages

What is the difference between a corsage and a boutonniere?

A corsage is a small floral arrangement worn by women. A boutonniere is a single flower or small arrangement worn by men. They complement each other at formal events.

When should you order corsages?

Order corsages 1-2 weeks in advance from a florist. This allows time for personalized design and any special shipping needs.

What are popular prom corsage flowers?

Roses, orchids, and carnations make great prom corsage choices. Their wide color range allows matching any dress. Carnations offer budget-friendly options.

Should a corsage match a dress or stand out?

It is generally recommended corsage colors complement or match the dress to present a coordinated formal look. But for something eye-catching, go for bold colors that contrast the dress.

How long do corsages last out of water?

Quality corsage flowers look fresh for 4-6 hours out of water. Store the corsage in the fridge and mist flowers occasionally to maximize durability. Avoid heat exposure.

Conclusion

Corsages deserve more celebration for the elegance they lend formal fashions. With so many beautiful bloom types and thoughtful design possibilities, corsages allow personalized self-expression. By strategizing flower options, colors, sizes, and styles, you are sure to find a corsage that suits your event, dress, and personality perfectly.

Follow the wisdom in this guide to craft a corsage as special as the occasion. Confidently order or DIY corsages that will make time stand still as you admire their artistry on your wrist throughout an unforgettable event.