June. It’s known for hot weather, hot dogs, ice cream, Gemini’s, mowing the grass and weddings. Yes, there was a comma between Gemini’s and mowing the grass. For those born in the sign of Gemini mowing would be a bit out of character, but not if you ask nicely.
June weddings means better weather for gatherings traditionally and it is still so. Better weather also for all the pretty clothes and sandals. Men may always have pockets but their clothes are more substantial generally and in the hotter weather have my sympathies. Especially at more formal gatherings such as the June wedding where jackets can be “required” if only for the ceremony and the photos. Which brings us to the boutonniere.
The flower with frills or flower more plainly offered the French word, “boutonniere” and the British “buttonhole” and sometimes in American English “corsage” but for the gentleman, all work. It goes back a long way for everyday wear but theses days usually for special occasions. Fresh and full of fragrance, often used as a color accent. When for a prom or wedding will coordinate with the bouquet or corsage for the occasions partner.
The name, “buttonhole” refers to the literal button hole that mens jackets used to always have on the left lapel. The flower was simply and easily pushed through the hole and that was buttonhole that. And yes, a button on the right. Sometimes there’s a buttonhole stitched on a lapel but no hole is actually made. Let’s agree that it is a vestigial nod, of that previous style. Stitching present or not, that is the proper place for the flower. Now, to apply it takes courage and coordination. Never mind all the “I did it at prom, no problem”, “oh it’s easy peasy”, “three easy steps”. NO! And especially not when you’re left handed.
Instructions for applying the boutonniere for right handed people: Every flower for the gents will land on that left lapel. It’s hoyle. Ok. Get the bout, and hold it firmly in your left hand. Place it on the lapel where you want ultimately want it. While it’s held there, flip the gentleman’s lapel forward towards his midline and with the right hand, pin from behind at the top and the bottom of the flower, pushing the pins through the fabric into the stem and hopefully back outside the fabric. Like weaving. Be quick, remember there’s a fellow in that jacket.
Now, instructions for applying the boutonniere for left handed people: Same as above. If that fails, and it absolutely will follow the “Alternate” instructions for applying the bout below.
Alternate instructions for applying the boutonniere for left handed people: Take your Pilates / Yoga shoulder stand props with you as you set up shop. Go into full yet assisted sirsasana (headstand) and while upside down and have the groomsmen line up and have them visit one at a time. I suggest you wear trousers.
No matter how you do it can it really go wrong? Of course not. How can it be bad when it’s June. There may be ice cream.