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Corsage
Corsage
from Wikipedia
Yellow corsage
Wrist corsage
Examples of a corsage. Colors for a corsage are commonly chosen to coordinate with attire.

A corsage /kɔːrˈsɑːʒ/ is a small bouquet of flowers worn on a woman's dress or around her wrist for a formal occasion. They are typically given to her by her date. Today, corsages are most commonly seen at homecomings, proms, and similar formal events.[1]

In some countries, similar ornaments are worn by the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom at a wedding ceremony.[2]

Flowers worn by men are generally called buttonholes or boutonnières. At school events such as homecoming or prom, male-female couples generally coordinate the corsage and boutonnière, signifying their connection, and distinguishing them from others.[3] In some cases, young girls may wear a corsage to a father-daughter dance, and the father may also wear a boutonnière.[4]

History

[edit]
A traditional pin-on corsage

Wearing flowers pinned to clothing dates as far back as Ancient Greece, when small bunches of fragrant flowers and herbs were worn at weddings to ward off evil spirits.[5] During the 16th and 17th centuries, corsages and boutonnières may have been a part of daily life to prevent disease and to ward off evil spirits, but over time, they became special-occasion pieces.[6]

The word corsage comes from the French term bouquet de corsage, meaning a bouquet of flowers worn on upper part of the body ("corsage" meaning girdle, bodice in French), which was traditionally worn by women to weddings and funerals.[7] Eventually, the term shortened to corsage in American English.[6] In the early 19th century, corsages were regarded as a courting gift and were often given at formal dances.[5] Traditionally, the gentleman would bring a gift of flowers for his date's parents and would select one of the flowers to give to his date, which would then be carried or attached to her clothing, usually on the front of the shoulder.[5] During the 1950s, some corsages were made with fruit and would be seen on hats for decoration.[3] As dress styles changed, pinning the corsage to the dress became impractical, and wrist corsages became the norm.[5]

Today's corsages are similar to those made in previous decades, though generally smaller.[3] It is still customary for someone to give their female date a corsage when attending a formal dance, but they are also sometimes given to a daughter attending a formal event by her parents or worn by the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom at a wedding.[5] Wives and any surviving mothers typically wear corsages at Anniversary celebrations; generally, the flowers are the same as what was used at the wedding, with ribbons indicating the milestone, (i.e. silver for 25th, red for 40th). Florists recommend that the flowers be complementary in color to the attire, and corsages and boutonnières should be coordinated to indicate that a couple is attending the event together.[3] Corsages are often dried and pressed to be preserved as mementos.[6]

A modern wrist corsage made with black satin ribbon, pink spray roses, and wax flower

Prom

[edit]
Modern wrist corsages
Homecoming mum

When attending a school formal or prom in the US, providing a corsage for a prom date signifies consideration and generosity, as the corsage is meant to symbolize and honor the person wearing it.[8] Corsages are usually worn around a prom date's wrist; alternatively, they may be pinned on her dress or a modified nosegay can be carried in her hand. The colors of the flowers are usually chosen to complement the dress or to add color to the couple, creating a unifying look. Prom couples may wish to go together to choose the flowers for a custom-made corsage or boutonnière.[9] Traditionally, the male presents a corsage or nosegay to the female as a gift, while the female would provide the boutonnière and pin it on the male's shirt or jacket.

Homecoming

[edit]

Given to a student by a date or parent to wear on homecoming day, homecoming chrysanthemums ("mums") are an over-100-year-old tradition in the U.S. associated with the emergence of homecoming football games at universities and colleges, especially in the South and Midwest.[10][11][12] After World War II, it became popular for homecoming mum corsages to be adorned with ribbons in school colors to signify school spirit.[10] Some sources identify the University of Missouri, Southwestern University,[13] and Baylor University as the first universities to host homecoming festivities.[14][10][11] Soon after, homecoming games and traditions spread to high schools.[15] In these early years, the chrysanthemum was typically used as the homecoming corsage flower because of its heartiness, popularity, and seasonal availability.[11][16]

Homecoming mums are primarily a high school tradition seen in Texas and adjacent states such as Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Louisiana.[17] In Texas, they are described as rite of passage and are gifted by family, a date, or a friend.[18] Starting in the late 1950s-early 1960s, Texas homecoming mums started evolving into more elaborate designs than those seen in the rest of the country.[19] Ribbons got longer, trinkets (small plastic decorations) were added, and differentiation by class year slowly became the norm.[20] Silk flowers eventually replaced live chrysanthemums once demand overcame florists' ability to supply real flowers; also, artificial flowers are able to hold up better as more decorative accoutrements are added.[10][21] Meanwhile, in the rest of the country, homecoming mum design remained essentially the same but popularity slowly diminished.[22]

Texas-style homecoming mums are considerably larger today than in past generations and typically feature numerous ribbons and additional adornments, including loops, braids, whips (basket-style woven ribbons), feather boas, personalized teddy bears, die-cuts, and various trinkets and baubles.[10] Male students sometimes wear a more compact version known as a homecoming garter, which is fixed to the upper arm with an elastic band.[10] Because of the availability of supplies and the large number of small businesses dedicated to mum-making, students can choose whether to purchase a ready-to-wear mum, a custom mum, or make one themselves.[11][23] Some creations weigh up to ten pounds, take days to fabricate, and cost from $45-$700, depending on how elaborate they are.[10][14] Seniors' mums are usually larger than those of other grade levels; at many schools, the tradition is for the senior mum to be white (rather than school colors) with accents such as gold, white, or trending colors.[11][24] In many high school districts, students wear their homecoming mums and garters up to 12 hours to classes, pep rallies, and to the homecoming football game.[10][11]

Arlington ISD in Texas achieved the first Guinness World Record for the largest homecoming mum, a 22-foot design for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.[11] Now, Lewisville High School holds the Guinness World Record.[25]

Types

[edit]

Corsages can be made from a single flower or a small bunch of flowers, and a variety of flowers can be used. The following table shows some of the main flowers and accents used to create a custom-made corsage and that can be included in a nosegay and boutonnière.

Main flowers Fillers and accents Extras
Spray roses (sweetheart roses) Gypsophilia (baby's breath) Artificial leaves
Standard roses Solidago Gems
Orchids Wax flower Beads
Carnations Seeded eucalyptus Ribbon
Mini calla lilies Asters Pearl wristband
Succulents Hypericum Bracelet
Freesia Chamomile Glitter
Daisies
Homecoming Mums Ribbons and boas Trinkets, bells, and die cuts

Tools

[edit]

The style and design of a corsage may vary depending on the event. Younger generations tend to use wrist corsages, which may vary in style and size depending on the wearer.[3] The more traditional option is a corsage pinned on the shoulder of a woman's dress. This style often gets confused with a boutonnière. The main difference is the size and the number of flowers used.

If a wrist corsage is chosen for an event, it can be made using wire and floral tape or floral glue. The wire method is recommended for pin-on corsages because the wire will support the stems or flower bulbs. Glue can be added to hold the flowers together if the wire and tape are not sufficient.[26][27]

Wrist corsage Pin-on corsage
Flowers Flowers
Floral glue Floral wire
Floral tape Floral tape
Floral wire

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
A corsage is a small bouquet or arrangement of flowers, often accented with ribbons, greenery, or other decorative elements, worn as a primarily by women during formal events such as weddings, proms, and dances. It is typically secured by pinning to the or of or, in modern variations, attached to the wrist via an elastic band or . The word "corsage" derives from the French term for the bodice or upper body of a woman's dress, reflecting its historical origins where floral adornments were pinned directly to this area of attire. This practice traces back to ancient civilizations, including the and Romans, who wore fragrant flowers not only for aesthetic appeal but also to ward off evil spirits and disease, a that evolved into the decorative accessories seen today. In contemporary usage, corsages serve as complementary pieces to boutonnieres—similar floral arrangements worn by men on the lapel—and are customized to match event themes or personal styles. Common types include the traditional pin-on corsage, ideal for secure attachment to gowns with larger blooms like roses or orchids, and the wrist corsage, which offers versatility for strapless dresses and incorporates elements such as hypericum berries, eucalyptus, or even non-floral accents like rhinestones. Modern designs emphasize sustainability and creativity, featuring dried or preserved flowers, monochromatic palettes, or organic foliage to create lasting, eco-friendly pieces. These accessories not only enhance formal attire but also carry symbolic meaning, representing appreciation, elegance, and celebration in various cultural contexts.

Definition and Origins

Definition

A corsage is a small bouquet of flowers or foliage arranged as a decorative accessory, typically worn by women on formal occasions. It can be pinned to the , , or of , or secured to the via a band or . The corsage serves a symbolic purpose, representing , , honor, or commemoration, and is often presented as a by a romantic partner, family member, or escort to signify appreciation or emotional connection. In distinction from similar items, the functions as the male counterpart to the corsage, consisting of a single flower or small cluster pinned to a . Corsages remain prevalent in modern contexts, commonly worn at events such as school dances, weddings, and graduations , where they continue as a traditional element of formal attire despite evolving styles.

Etymology and Historical Terminology

The word corsage originates from Old French corsage, denoting the "bust," "trunk," or "body," derived from cors ("body"), which traces back to Latin corpus ("body"). It entered English in the late 15th century, initially referring to the physical size or shape of the body, as evidenced in a 1481 translation by William Caxton. The bodice sense was adopted in the early 19th century, first appearing in English fashion contexts in 1818 via translations from French and solidified by 1843. The tradition of adorning clothing with flowers grew in popularity during the 19th-century amid the rise of floriography—the symbolic that assigned specific meanings to blooms for discreet communication. The term corsage evolved to its modern sense of a small floral ornament in the early . This semantic extension, denoting a bouquet worn on the , appeared in by 1911, drawn from the French phrase bouquet de corsage ("bouquet of the "). Related English terminology includes , an older synonym for a small bouquet, originating in the 15th century from "nose" + "gay" (meaning "ornament" or "bright"), used to describe fragrant handheld or worn posies intended to please the sense of smell. In French, corsage retains its primary meaning as "" today, though the floral persists through compounds like bouquet de corsage, highlighting linguistic parallels across languages for body-adjacent adornments.

Historical Development

Ancient and Early Uses

In ancient Greece, circa 500 BCE, garlands crafted from herbs and flowers were commonly worn around the head or neck during ceremonies and daily life to ward off evil spirits and promote health, as these natural elements were believed to carry protective and purifying properties. Such practices are referenced in Homeric epics, including the Iliad, where rose-scented oils anointed bodies for sacred protection, and hymns describing garlands of violets, hyacinths, and roses symbolizing fertility and divine favor. These garlands, often made from aromatic plants like laurel and ivy, served both ritualistic and medicinal roles, reflecting the integration of botany with mythology and wellness. During , flowers and garlands held deep symbolic associations with love and fertility, particularly in the , a six-day celebration honoring , the goddess of flowers and spring, held from April 28 to May 3. Participants adorned themselves and public spaces with garlands of roses, lilies, and myrtle—sacred to —to invoke renewal, passion, and bountiful harvests, blending festive joy with agricultural rites. In medieval and , from the 14th to 16th centuries, small posies of strongly scented flowers and herbs were carried in hands, pinned to clothing, or tucked into pockets as protective measures against disease, especially during plague outbreaks, under the prevailing that foul airs spread illness. Common combinations included , lavender, and carnations to mask odors and purportedly purify the air, with these items evolving from simple bundles to more refined accessories among the nobility, where elaborate posies signified wealth and refinement in courtly settings. Non-Western traditions paralleled these uses, as in where lotus flowers were fashioned into garlands worn at banquets and rituals to symbolize rebirth and protection, often sewn into hair or draped over shoulders.

19th and 20th Century Evolution

In the 19th century, during the , corsages gained popularity in Europe and the as integral elements of courting rituals and social etiquette, often consisting of small bouquets of fresh flowers pinned to the or décolletage of women's dresses. This practice was deeply influenced by floriography, the symbolic popularized through books like The Language of Flowers by Charlotte de Latour (1819), where specific blooms conveyed romantic messages—such as red roses symbolizing love or forget-me-nots representing true affection—allowing discreet expression in a repressed social context. By the early , evolving trends prompted a shift from pinned corsages to shoulder versions. Wrist corsages became popular in the mid- amid the rise of prom dresses that offered less fabric for pinning. by U.S. florists in the transformed them into standardized products for events like dances and weddings, driven by growing demand and improved supply chains. Post-World War II, in the 1950s, a boom occurred with the introduction of synthetic materials like and for artificial flowers and ribbons, enabling more durable and affordable designs amid economic prosperity and heightened social gatherings. A notable regional innovation emerged in the 1950s with homecoming mums, large chrysanthemum-based corsages embellished with ribbons and trinkets, evolving from simpler college traditions in and —such as Baylor University's early adoption—to elaborate high school symbols of and customs. The tradition spread globally through British colonial influences, where Victorian floriography and corsage-wearing customs were adapted in places like and during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blending with local . In the United States, usage peaked during the prom season, with corsages becoming ubiquitous accessories for nearly all formal high school dances, reflecting the era's and floral industry's expansion.

Cultural and Event-Specific Traditions

In School Events (Prom and Homecoming)

In the context of U.S. high school events, corsages hold a prominent place in traditions, which emerged as formal s in the as a way for students to experience upper-class social rituals. By the mid-20th century, presenting a corsage to one's date became a standard symbolizing commitment and affection during these events, with the male typically purchasing and pinning the arrangement on the female's attire shortly before the begins. dictates that the corsage should complement the wearer's , often incorporating flowers in matching or harmonious colors to enhance the overall ensemble. Traditionally, pinned corsages are attached to the left shoulder or near the heart, though variations exist based on style and regional preferences. Homecoming events, particularly in , feature a distinct evolution of corsages known as mums, which trace their origins to the early 20th century when students at the began wearing to football games as symbols of school pride. Adopted widely in by , these arrangements started as simple single flowers adorned with short ribbons in , but by the , they transformed into larger, more elaborate designs incorporating multiple layers of mums, streaming ribbons, , and personalized trinkets to reflect and individual flair. In recent years, the average cost for a custom homecoming mum has ranged from $75 to $500 or more, as of 2024, depending on size and embellishments, making them a notable in seasonal festivities. Regional differences highlight the diversity of these traditions, with northern U.S. schools favoring simpler pinned or wrist corsages akin to styles, often limited to a few flowers without extensive decorations, while southern states like emphasize oversized mums as vibrant displays of regional identity. Since the , gender-neutral trends have gained traction nationwide, with couples opting for matching sets of corsages or boutonnieres that avoid traditional gender assignments, promoting inclusivity in peer pairings at both and . These accessories carry deep cultural significance in fostering and peer bonding, serving as tangible emblems of shared excitement and social connections during high school milestones. In , where the mum thrives, seniors often participate in customizing their arrangements, often collaboratively with dates or family to incorporate personal motifs like names or achievements, underscoring their role in community rituals.

In Weddings and Other Ceremonies

In weddings, corsages are traditionally worn by mothers and stepmothers of the and groom, grandmothers, , flower girls, and other female guests or attendants to signify their supportive roles and familial bonds. These floral arrangements often symbolize , , and strength, particularly when featuring s, which have been favored for their elegant appearance since the mid-20th century in U.S. and European ceremonies. The practice gained prominence in the 1940s, when wore orchid corsages as a gesture of honor and solidarity during , evolving into a staple of formal wedding attire by the postwar era. Beyond weddings, corsages appear in various ceremonies to denote and commemoration. At graduations and balls, they are commonly presented to female participants or dates, mirroring formal event traditions with blooms like roses or orchids for celebration. In funerals, corsages incorporating lilies symbolize purity and restored innocence, offering a subtle to the deceased while providing comfort to family members. Internationally, corsage-like floral elements adapt to cultural contexts in ceremonial wear. In Indian shaadi () events, marigold garlands and posies are worn by participants, representing divine blessings, positivity, and marital happiness, often draped over shoulders in a manner akin to pinned corsages. Similarly, during Japanese ohanami ( viewing) gatherings, modern accessories such as sakura-inspired corsages evoke the transient beauty of the season, though traditional focuses more on communal appreciation under blooming trees. Contemporary global variations emphasize simplicity and . In Australian debutante balls, pinned posies of white orchids or roses are favored for their understated elegance, complementing formal gowns in coming-of-age presentations. Post-2020 trends have promoted eco-friendly corsages using or preserved flowers to minimize waste, alongside locally sourced, seasonal blooms that reduce environmental impact in weddings and ceremonies. Etiquette for corsages in these settings prioritizes symbolic alignment and harmony. They are typically placed on the left shoulder or lapel, positioned near the heart to evoke emotional connection, and coordinated in color and style with the wearer's attire or a partner's boutonniere for cohesive presentation.

Design and Variations

Common Flowers and Materials

Corsages typically incorporate primary flowers selected for their aesthetic appeal, durability, and symbolic significance. Roses are a staple, symbolizing romance and , with varieties in colors like for passion or white for purity. Orchids offer an exotic touch, representing , strength, and , while carnations provide an affordable option evoking affection and distinction. Seasonal choices, such as peonies in spring, add vibrancy and convey prosperity, romance, and good luck. Accent materials enhance the design and provide balance. Filler greens like baby's breath symbolize purity and , offering delicate texture, while ferns contribute feathery foliage for volume and natural contrast. Ribbons, often in or wired varieties, coordinate colors with attire and add elegance through bows or loops. For personalization, especially in mums, beads, charms, and trinkets—such as school-themed pendants or metallic garlands—are incorporated to reflect individual style. Floriography influences material choices, with symbolic meanings guiding selections for events. For instance, white lilies denote purity and are favored in weddings to represent innocence and devotion. Sustainability considerations also play a role; locally sourced flowers minimize carbon footprints and chemical use compared to imported ones, which often involve higher residues and transportation emissions, promoting fresher, eco-friendly options. As of 2025, corsage designs have evolved to include trends like handheld bouquets for a fresh, portable alternative; minimalist arrangements with neutral palettes; vibrant, monochromatic color schemes; and integrations with jewelry such as beaded or metallic holders, emphasizing personalization and versatility across events. Historical and modern variations reflect practical adaptations. In the 1940s, amid shortages of fresh flowers and fabrics like silk—diverted for military use—corsages frequently used or felt flowers as durable substitutes. Post-2000s, options have emerged, including pollen-free flowers and preserved dried elements like , catering to sufferers while maintaining realism and longevity.

Wrist Corsages vs. Pinned Corsages

Wrist corsages, typically secured with an elastic band or bracelet-style holder, emerged as a practical alternative in the early alongside evolving trends like and spaghetti-strap dresses that made traditional pinning challenging. This format allows for hands-free wear, making it particularly suitable for dynamic events involving movement, such as dancing at proms, where it avoids restricting arm motion or interfering with activities. Unlike pinned versions, wrist corsages minimize the risk of damaging delicate fabrics by eliminating the need for sharp attachments, a key advantage for lightweight or sheer gowns common in . In contrast, pinned corsages represent the classic attachment method, traditionally affixed to the or using pearl-headed straight pins, which provide a secure hold on structured fabrics like suits or heavier dress materials. This style supports more elaborate multi-flower clusters and larger designs, as the pinning allows for greater stability without the weight constraints of a wrist band, making it ideal for stationary or ceremonial occasions where visual impact is prioritized over mobility. However, the use of pins carries the potential drawback of tearing or snagging fabrics, particularly on finer materials, which has led to their declining favor in scenarios with delicate attire. Design differences between the two formats influence their construction: wrist corsages often incorporate lighter wiring and more streamlined arrangements to ensure comfort and prevent slippage during wear, while pinned corsages can utilize heavier wiring for robust, layered compositions that maintain shape under pin pressure. Modern innovations, such as magnet-backed attachments, bridge these styles by offering a hybrid approach that secures corsages without pins, reducing fabric damage and easing application for users with limited dexterity or mobility concerns. Usage trends highlight wrist corsages as the dominant choice for youth-oriented events like proms and homecomings, where their convenience and non-invasive nature align with active participation, whereas pinned corsages remain prevalent in weddings and formal ceremonies for mothers or attendants, emphasizing and on structured ensembles. This preference reflects broader shifts toward practicality in contemporary floral accessories, with wrist styles comprising the majority of options in event floristry due to their versatility across dress types.

Creation and Accessories

Required Tools

Creating a corsage requires a set of basic tools to handle and secure floral elements effectively, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional florists. These tools ensure precision in trimming, wiring, and attaching components without damaging delicate materials. Essential among them are floral wire in gauges 22 to 26, which provides flexible support for stems and petals; green stem wrap tape for concealing wires and maintaining a natural appearance; sharp cutters or shears for clean cuts that minimize flower trauma; and corsage pins, typically 2-inch steel varieties, for pinning the arrangement to . For more advanced customization, specialized items enhance functionality and aesthetics. Elastic bands, often adjustable and fabric-covered, are crucial for wrist corsages to ensure comfortable fit. Hot glue guns with low-temperature settings allow for quick attachment of accents like ribbons or beads, though they must be used sparingly on live flowers to avoid burns. Additionally, corsage cards—small, customizable tags for names or messages—add a personal touch during assembly. These supplies are widely available at craft stores such as or , as well as online retailers like Amazon and Save on Crafts, where starter kits including wire, tape, and pins typically cost $10 to $20. Bulk purchasing from floral wholesalers like FiftyFlowers can reduce expenses for professionals, often bringing per-unit costs under $5. To maintain flower freshness and safety, tools should be sterilized with a mild solution before use, as on cutters can accelerate by introducing pathogens to stems. For environmentally conscious creators, eco-alternatives include reusable pearl-headed pins made from recycled metals and biodegradable wire coated in natural raffia instead of tape. While material types like or preserved flowers can influence tool selection, the core toolkit remains consistent across fresh and artificial designs.

Assembly Methods

Assembling a basic pinned corsage begins with preparing the floral elements by trimming stems to approximately 1.5 inches and stripping leaves from the lower half to create a clean base. Next, wire each stem using 26-gauge floral wire inserted about one inch into the flower base, bending the wire downward to form a supportive structure, particularly for heavier blooms; leaves can be secured with a wiring technique where the wire is bent into a U-shape and hooked over the midrib. Arrange the wired elements in a flat, layered design—starting with greenery behind a focal flower, followed by fillers—then bundle and secure the stems tightly with light green corsage tape, staggering wire lengths to distribute weight evenly and avoiding excess bulk from over-taping. Add accents such as a bow at the base for elegance, wrap the taped bundle in satin , and attach a sturdy pin to the back for fastening; this process can be completed quickly by an experienced assembler. For a wrist corsage, start by preparing and wiring the flowers similarly to the pinned version, cutting stems to 2-3 cm and wrapping each with floral tape to cover sharp edges and ensure stability. Form a compact mini-bouquet by layering a flat green leaf as the base, followed by greenery, a statement flower, and fillers, then secure the arrangement with additional tape around all stems. Attach the bundled stems to an elastic or ribbon wristlet base using long ribbon ties at the middle and bottom, positioning the design to face outward while balancing the weight distribution for wearer comfort to prevent shifting during use. In advanced designs, such as those featuring mums, incorporate ribbon loops woven through the petals for added structure and visual interest, ensuring the loops are taped securely without compromising the flower's natural form. Professional florists emphasize techniques that enhance durability and presentation, such as pre-wiring all components for efficient assembly and refrigerating the finished corsage in a cool, dark environment to maintain freshness. In contrast, DIY approaches rely on basic tools like those outlined in prior sections but risk common pitfalls, including uneven stem trimming that leads to an unbalanced design or excessive taping that creates unnecessary bulk and hinders pinning. Florists mitigate these by clipping excess wire early and testing the flat profile against fabric to ensure proper adherence. Post-2020 innovations in corsage assembly include accessible DIY kits with for creating designs without advanced wiring skills. These kits, often including floral adhesive, have democratized the process for events like weddings and proms. Complementing this, video tutorials on platforms like have surged in popularity since 2020, providing visual step-by-step guidance from certified instructors to refine techniques and avoid errors in real-time.

References

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