Dinner jacket boutonniere

[ArsNova]

What type of flower do you prefer for a dinner jacket? Perhaps red or white? I'm wondering if there is any type of flower that is considered traditional with formalwear, whether black or white tie. Are boutonnieres always appropriate? I must say that they've been quite the rarity at formal events I've frequented, and I'd like to wear one with the next opportunity i have.

 

[Lucky Strike]

I've always been told carnations, but I'm able to count on one hand the times I've worn them. I like wearing pocket squares, and I think a buttonhole and a carnation can be too much.

 

[Film Noir Buff]

I doubt if one man in ten million will be able to tell you the proper flowers to use. White gardenia is beautiful, if fragile. Ive used tea roses in red or white. I think of a carnation or a cornflower as a day wear flower, and Im one of the last people to even wear one with any type of regularity that I know of. People used to ask me if I was going to or coming from a wedding which they havent done for a few years now. Im not quite sure what that says.

That boutonniere book by brioni is very good, im too lazy to look it up for you.

 

[whoopee]

I'd wear a red carnation because I think the splash of red looks great against the black/midnight blue and white.

Incidentally, green carnations traditionally signify homosexuality.

 

[LabelKing]

In the high society homosexual circles of Paris, a dyed green carnation did signify homosexuality.

I like an orchid.

 

[Tomasso]

Originally Posted by whoopee

Incidentally, green carnations traditionally signify homosexuality.

Except on St. Patrick's Day.