You’ve probably seen someone wearing a small flower arrangement on their wrist at prom and thought, “What’s that prom flower thing?” It’s part of a classic prom tradition that’s been around for decades.
We call it a corsage if it’s worn on the wrist, and a boutonniere if it’s pinned to a suit jacket.
Even though it looks like a small detail (something you wouldn’t really miss), it carries meaning. These flowers are exchanged between prom dates as a gesture of appreciation and connection, and they’re often chosen to match the colors and style of each person’s outfit.
They’re one of those details that make prom night feel thoughtful, coordinated, and a little more special.
Now, let’s explore what this tradition really means and how it became such a big part of prom.
What Exactly Is the Prom Flower Thing?
The flower thing for prom is simply a small floral accessory traditionally worn at the event, usually a corsage (worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress) or a boutonniere (pinned to a suit lapel). These pieces are designed to coordinate with prom outfits and are exchanged as a gesture of appreciation between dates.
While it’s a familiar part of modern prom night, the tradition actually goes back much further. What we now call a corsage or boutonniere grew out of old customs where people wore small flowers to dances, ceremonies, and meaningful gatherings.
In ancient times, these little floral pieces, often called posies, were believed to bring good luck and offer protection. By the 17th and 18th centuries, wearing flowers at formal events became a sign of respect, admiration, and care.
This simple gesture carried through generations and eventually made its way into school dances, where it became a defining part of prom culture in the United States.
What began as a small act of courtesy has now become a memorable moment between prom dates. Today, many teens still choose the classic look, while others opt for modern versions like mini bouquets, floral cuffs, succulent accessories, or dried flower designs that feel more personal and artistic.
No matter the style, the meaning behind the tradition stays the same.
Corsage vs. Boutonniere: What’s the Difference?
A corsage and a boutonniere serve the same purpose! They add a personal, elegant touch to a prom outfit, but they’re worn differently and designed with slightly different styles in mind.
Corsages are typically worn on the wrist, though some can be pinned to prom dresses.
It usually features small blooms like spray roses, orchids, daisies, or ranunculus, arranged with ribbons, greenery, or sparkly accents that match the wearer’s dress.
Corsages are a bit fuller and more decorative because they’re meant to stand out as part of the overall look.
A boutonniere, on the other hand, is a single flower or a tiny cluster of blooms pinned to the left lapel of a suit or tuxedo. It’s more subtle and streamlined, designed to complement the suit without overwhelming it. Common choices include roses, carnations, calla lilies, and simple greenery.
So if you’ve ever wondered what is the flower thing guys wear to prom, the boutonniere is the one you’re thinking of.
What to Know About the Prom Flower Thing
Traditionally, the guy buys the corsage, and the girl buys the boutonniere. But modern etiquette is completely flexible. Many couples choose their flowers together, split the cost, or purchase their own to make sure everything matches their style and color theme. What matters most is finding something that feels personal and fits the overall prom aesthetic.
Timing plays a big role, too. Florists recommend ordering 1–2 weeks before prom, so there’s enough time for customization and color matching. Pickup is usually best the day before the event to keep the flowers fresh.
If you need to store them overnight, place them in a cool spot, or even in the fridge, as long as they stay away from fruits, which can shorten a flower’s lifespan. It’s important to note that some flowers last longer than others, so it will differ from flower to flower.
But roses, orchids, and carnations hold up well even with lots of movement, photos, and dancing.
At the end of the day, the prom flower thing is about choosing something that looks great, feels meaningful, and enhances the moment. There’s no strict rulebook, just a tradition that you can personalize in a way that fits your night.
And if you don’t have a date, you can absolutely wear a corsage or boutonniere on your own. It’s a fun way to elevate your look and still take part in the tradition.
Small Flowers, Big Memories
Prom flowers may be small, but they carry memories long after the night is over. A corsage on the wrist or a boutonniere on a lapel becomes part of the photos, the excitement, and the story of getting ready.
These little floral details capture a moment in time, the care someone put into choosing them, the colors you coordinated together, and the feeling of celebrating something special.
What makes the tradition meaningful is how personal it can be. Whether you choose a classic corsage, a modern floral cuff, or something completely unique, the right design reflects your style and your connection to the person you’re going with.
It’s less about following the “expected” choice and more about expressing who you are.
The prom flower thing might last only a day, but the memories tied to it last far longer.
FAQs
What is the flower thing for prom called?
The prom flower thing is either a corsage or a boutonniere. A corsage is typically worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress, while a boutonniere is pinned to the lapel of a suit or tuxedo.
Who gives the corsage for prom?
Traditionally, a prom date gives their partner a corsage. But modern couples often pick them out together or buy their own to match their outfits (there’s no strict rule around it anymore).
What is corsage and boutonniere?
A corsage is a small floral arrangement worn on the wrist or dress. A boutonniere is a single flower or tiny arrangement worn on a suit lapel. Both are chosen to coordinate with prom outfits and symbolize appreciation between dates.
How does the flower thing work for prom?
Prom dates usually exchange their flowers before the event. The corsage is placed on the wrist or pinned to the dress, and the boutonniere is pinned to the lapel. They’re typically chosen to match each other’s colors and styles.
What’s the difference between a corsage and a boutonniere?
A corsage is fuller and worn on the wrist or dress, while a boutonniere is smaller and pinned to a suit lapel. Both add an elegant, coordinated touch to the prom look.
Can I wear a corsage without a date?
Yes! Many teens buy their own corsage or receive one from a friend or family member. It’s a fun accessory and doesn’t require having a date.
What flowers last longest for prom?
Roses, orchids, and carnations tend to last the longest. They stay fresh through photos, dancing, and the entire evening, which is why florists use them often for prom flowers.
