Who buys the corsage for the formal?
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Traditionally, the person inviting their date to the formal buys the corsage.
This tradition comes from older prom and formal customs where:
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The guy buys the girl a corsage
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The girl buys the guy a boutonniere (buttonhole)
The corsage is usually worn on the wrist, while the buttonhole is pinned to the suit jacket.
The idea behind this tradition is that the flowers match the couple’s outfits and add a special detail for photos.
The Modern Approach
Today, formal traditions are much more relaxed.
Many students now choose to:
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Order their own corsage
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Coordinate colours together
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Split the cost
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Order matching corsage and buttonhole sets online
Some couples simply decide together what they want so everything matches perfectly.
In many cases, the person wearing the corsage chooses the style and colour, since it usually needs to match their dress.
Who Orders the Buttonhole?
The buttonhole (also called a boutonniere) is traditionally worn by the person in the suit.
Typically:
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The girl orders the buttonhole for her date
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The guy orders the corsage
However, many couples today simply order both together as a matching set, which is often the easiest option.
Matching flowers and colours help create a polished look for formal photos.
A Simple Tip for School Formals
The most important thing is to order early and coordinate colours.
Most school formals happen around the same time each year, so florists can book out quickly.
Ordering your corsage and buttonhole together ensures:
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Matching colours
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A cohesive look for photos
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Less stress before the big night
✨ A corsage might be a small detail, but it’s one of the finishing touches that makes formal photos feel extra special.
If you’re attending a Year 12 formal in Melbourne, it’s a good idea to organise your corsage and buttonhole a few weeks before the event to make sure everything is ready for the big night.