Lapel pins are a small but important fashion element for both men and women. While a lapel pin may be small in size, it can make a significant statement. They can be used to show support for a cause, express a sense of belonging to a group, or just add a little personality to your look. However, since there are so many different styles of lapel pins, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Here’s a guide to help you choose a lapel pin that suits your style. Read on to learn more.
1. What is a lapel pin?
A lapel pin is a small pin usually worn on the lapel of a coat, jacket, or dress. It’s like a piece of jewelry, but it’s the jewelry that brings a different message. These beautiful creative lapel pins are worn proudly by people and collected by others. Lapel pins can come in different designs. Some have company logos or other emblems with flag designs of different countries or just an informative slogan.
So what is a lapel? Look at any blazer or blazer. Lapels are folded flaps of fabric that sit above the buttons and below the collar. Most lapels have a buttonhole on the upper left side that can be left open or sewn shut. This is where your lapel pin goes. These buttonholes were originally meant to fasten jackets and keep the chest and neck warm. Over time, they have evolved to be used specifically for different types of lapel pins.
(Another related post: 10 Creative Ways to Wear Lapel Pins)
2. Different types of lapel pins
There are many different types of lapel pins, varying in size, how they are fastened, and what they depict. We’ve detailed some of the most common scenarios below:
1) Boutonniere
The boutonniere is an original accessory, a real flower set in a buttonhole that adds an unmissable touch to your jacket. Usually used at weddings.
The most common boutonnieres are white carnations, lilies, or roses, but other flowers such as orchids can also be worn.
#1. How to keep boutonnieres fresh?
You want your boutonniere to be as fresh as possible. Your best bet is to cut it off at the last minute, but know that different flowers last for different amounts of time. For example, carnations have a relatively long shelf life, while roses have a shorter shelf life.
Regardless of the type, you can keep your clothes looking great with these tips:
Spray with water: This is an easy way to keep your boutonniere fresh all day/night. Just don’t go overboard – you don’t want it to look wet or splash water on your shirt or jacket.
Use floral sealant: Florists often stock special sealants designed to keep petals and stems hydrated longer than water.
Use a small vase: Yes, you heard that right! These were popular in the Edwardian era and were hidden behind lapel pleats to keep the flowers moist. This may make your breasts pop out a little, but the retro style will give you bonus points. You can also choose the style of your lapels to add conversation to your outfit.
Store in the refrigerator: If you must cut the boutonniere before wearing it, place it in a glass of water in the refrigerator.
No fruit allowed: This may seem strange, but you should store flowers away from the fruit bowl. Fruit, especially apples, release ethylene gas, which causes flowers to wilt faster.
#2. How to wear a boutonniere?
While it’s not complicated, there are a few principles to follow to make your boutonniere look as beautiful as possible:
- As with other lapel pins, the flower should be placed close to the buttonhole or where it is located.
- On many formal jackets, you’ll find a thread behind the lapel that holds the collar in place and hides it.
- The flower should be facing away from your chest.
- All leaves should be tucked behind the petals to minimize visibility.
Please note that some jackets do not have buttonholes, in which case you have two options:
- Take your jacket to a tailor and sew a buttonhole.
- Pin the whole flower to your lapel. Make sure to follow the rules of placement and stem position (parallel to the lapel), but be aware that this is necessarily less elegant than option 1.
(Another related post: Top 8 Sites To Buy Lapel Pins in 2023)
2) Flower or floral lapel pin
These pins look like flowers but are made from soft materials like silk, linen, satin, or cotton. They hold in place like boutonnieres but are usually slightly smaller in size and have the advantage of being reusable.
3) Stick a needle
Stick needles are made of various metals (gold, silver, copper, etc.). These pins are shaped like long, thin needles and fit neatly into metal fasteners. Depending on the model, the fasteners are located on the ends or can slide up and down, giving you precise control over placement.
4) Mini pins and badges
They have no stem and are secured with a clasp (butterfly, rubber, or magnetic) located directly under the badge or pin. They are usually made of soft (ridged) or hard (smooth) enamel. Remember, pins represent fashion, while badges are symbolic and often appear on politicians.
5) Brooch
Unlike any of the above, men’s suit brooches are secured with hinged pins. They are usually larger than pins and feature precious metals or vintage elements.
(Another related post: A Quick Guide for Metal Badge)
3. How to choose the best lapel pin for you?
Above we mentioned that there are several basic types of lapel pins. There are boutonnieres, floral lapel pins, mini pins or badges, stick pins, and brooches. So how do you choose the right lapel pin for you among these types? They come in various sizes and colors. Check out colors, occasions, personal style, and preferences. In most cases, don’t wear a lapel pin to a job interview or a funeral.
Here are some suggestions for selection:
1) Dressing style
If you’re wearing a suit or shirt with bright or bold colors and patterns, choose a conservative style. This will allow you to keep the look clean without clashing. Use strong metal, such as molded pins, and keep it small.
On the other hand, if your jackets and shirts are neutral and simple, add something bigger, bolder, and more colorful. Cloisonné colored enamel lapel pins or even a fun floral fabric pin.
2) Color
If you want colored pins, choose an option that coordinates with the color of the rest of the clothing you’re wearing. If you wear a pocket square or tie, choose a pin that matches that color.
Choose a pin that matches the color of your jacket or even the color of your shirt. As with all lapel pins, less is more. Choose clothes that balance with what you’re wearing.
3) Match metal
Be sure to bring the same medal. If your belt buckle and watch are silver, choose a silver lapel pin. Make sure it matches any other metals you wear!
4) Symbols and Design
The possibilities are endless with lapel pin designs. Choose a pin to say what you want to say, from a symbolic sports team. For basketball fans, buy a small basketball pin.
Do you like the Bulls? Get an enamel pin with the Bulls logo. Want to add more style? Choose a poppy pattern made from silk or lightweight cotton. The options are endless.
For example, I have a friend. He is a walk in stability chamber manufacturer. He likes to wear a suit with a lapel pin when meeting clients. And he’s a Bulls fan, so most of his lapel pins are Bulls-related.
5) Occasion
If you’re going to a wedding or prom, wear a boutonniere on your lapel. If the event isn’t top-notch formal, you can also opt for lapel flowers or dainty small silver or gold pins.
6) Location
The most common places to wear a lapel pin are on the lapel of a suit jacket or on the left side of a dress shirt. However, lapel pins can also be worn on other garments, such as hats, scarves, and even shoes. When choosing where to place your pins, be sure to consider the overall look you want. If you’re looking for a more formal look, you’ll want to opt for blazer lapels. If you want a more casual look, you can try different placements.
The lapel pin should be in the correct position on the left side of the chest. Absolutely, don’t stray from your heart. Rod pins should sometimes be visible or hidden, depending on the situation. You have to decide whether you are traditional or rebellious.
Finally, remember that the point of dressing up is to accentuate your own facial and body features. The goal isn’t to have everyone staring at your lapels but to make your pins blend in with everything else you’re wearing, drawing attention to the most important thing: your face. When in doubt, remember less is more: it’s better to underdo a little than to walk around like a clown.
(Another related post: A Wearing Guide to A Collar Pin on A Suit)
4. FAQ
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about lapel pins.
1) What does it mean to wear a lapel pin?
Reasons vary depending on the occasion and the individual.
Sometimes it’s for symbolism, such as a flag or a poppy. Sometimes it’s for tradition and uniformity, such as at a wedding. Sometimes just to add an extra touch of style to their outfit.
2) What should lapel pins be paired with?
There is no clear answer to this question, as it depends on personal preference and the occasion in which you wear your lapel pin. For example, some people may prefer to match their lapel pin to the color of their suit or shirt, while others may choose to contrast it with a different color. In the end, it’s up to the individual to decide what looks best to them.
3) Are lapel pins fashionable?
Traditionally, they were only used on the most formal occasions, but today they are worn more frequently by well-dressed gentlemen. This pin can be worn on a dress shirt in a variety of ways.
4) Flat lapel or split lapel: which one is right for you?
Its practicality and versatility make it ideal for a variety of sets. Because it’s notched, it will add a bit of style to your outfit. If you want something more classic, opt for a notched lapel collar. This is one of the most traditional lapel pins and will go with almost any suit. Lapel pins have been around for a long time, but now they’re making a comeback.
5) Can I wear a lapel pin on a tuxedo jacket, coat, or sweater?
Absolutely. The same rules apply to standard jackets and blazers. Note that when wearing a tuxedo, you need to stick to white flowers for an elegant look. On a sweater, you’ll need to pin through the fabric, so make sure you don’t poke too many holes.
6) Do I show or hide the lapel pin fastener?
There are no hard and fast rules. The fastener at the end can go through the front of the lapel or not – it depends on what you think looks better.
7) Can I wear a lapel pin or boutonniere and a tie clip at the same time?
Yes, but be careful. Too much metal can easily make an entire outfit overweight, taking your look from sophisticated to experimental.
(Another related post: Lapel Pin 101: Everything You Need to Know)
5. Conclusion
A variety of shapes and sizes make it easy to find one that suits your style. A badge can be a symbol of a specific cause or an expression of support for that particular organization. Choosing the right lapel pin is crucial when attending an event. A badge should not be worn for the sake of wearing a badge. Make sure the pin is appropriate for the event and the clothing you will be wearing. If you’re not sure what to wear, ask friends and family.
There are some fun pin ideas for this occasion. Today, pin lapels are a great way to add personality to any outfit. If you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just for fun, a lapel pin is a great way to stand out. If you’re not wearing a jacket or tie, wear a lapel pin on your dress shirt.