Creating the Best Corsage for Your Special Event
A corsage is a small bouquet, usually one or two blooms, worn on a woman's dress, blouse, or wrist as an accessory during special events. While most people opt to purchase a ready-made corsage from their local florist, if you're more of the creative type, then you may want to take a jab at creating a DIY corsage.
There are two main types of corsages: pin-on and wrist corsages. Wrist corsages are worn on the wrist and are usually made of a single flower or a small group of flowers. A pin-on corsage is worn on a dress, blouse, or jacket lapel (much like a boutonniere).
If you think you're up to creating a DIY corsage for yourself or someone else for an upcoming prom, wedding, or another special event, then we've got some tips to help you get started.
Amazing corsage’s for proms
What Supplies Do You Need to Make a Corsage?
When looking for inspiration, you'll want to search for photos of corsages that pique your interest.
When it comes time to collect your materials, you'll want to start with the basics:
Flowers/greenery
Ribbons
Floral wire/tape
Hot glue gun
Elastic wristlet/corsage pin
Other decorative elements (jewels, dried/fake berries, etc.)
This is a simple Corsage
Creating a DIY Corsage: A Simple Step-By-Step Guide
Here's our simple step-by-step guide for creating a DIY corsage:
1. Choose your focal point:
This will be the primary floral element of your corsage.
2. Pick out your decorative elements:
You'll also want to add other greenery or decorations to your corsage. You can choose from jewels, dried flowers/foliage, fake berries, etc.
3. Clean and cut your stems:
Remove any leaves or stems that are too long for your corsage. When you cut the stems, use clean, sharp scissors to preserve the freshness of your flowers and minimize the risk of contamination. If you plan to keep your corsage in water, cut the stems at a 45-degree angle to allow for greater water consumption.
4. Wrap your stems with floral tape or ribbon
Some high-quality, decorative floral tapes could be just enough to keep the corsage together and look beautiful. Otherwise, you may want to add a layer of ribbon on top of the floral tape to dress it up a bit.
5. Use hot glue to attach your decorative elements and your corsage to your elastic wristlet:
Using your hot glue gun, secure any last-minute decorations or greenery to your corsage. Once it’s dry, add a bit of hot glue to your elastic wristlet and attach the corsage.
How Do You Make a Single Flower Wrist Corsage?
Making a single flower wrist corsage follows the same steps outlined above. The only difference is that you'll use a single rose or another flower instead of multiples. Here's a quick guide to help you stay on track:
Gather supplies and flowers
Choose your single flower for your focal point
Trim stems and add filler foliage
Tape together and then wrap in ribbon
Image depicting three styles of corsages
How Far in Advanced Can You Make a Fresh Flower Corsage?
We suggest making your corsage the day before or even on the morning of your event. Making your corsage too far in advance means risking the flowers wilting, discoloring, or even dying completely. If you have to create your corsage further in advance, it's best to spritz your flowers with water to keep them fresh and store them in a cool location, or even place them in a small cup of water.
Corsage Etiquette: Things You Should Know
Here are a few common questions we get asked:
What Wrist Does a Corsage Go On?
This is primarily up to personal preference, but traditionally, the corsage is placed on the left wrist, as most people are right-handed. If you’re left-handed, you may prefer to wear your corsage on your right wrist.
How Do You Pin a Corsage?
When pinning a corsage to a woman's shirt, dress, or lapel, you want to face the flower outward, with the stem vertical. You'll then take your floral pin and push the pin into the fabric a few inches from the flower stem. Finally, you'll push the pin over the stem. If the corsage is heavy, you may want to use a second pin going reverse to help secure it in place.
Should the Corsage Match the Boutonniere?
If you're attending an event with a date, then, traditionally, the corsage and boutonniere should match in either color or by using the same flowers and greenery.
Creating a DIY Corsage is a Great Creative Outlet
Creating a DIY corsage is a great way to save money and get creative. With a bit of time and effort, you can create a beautiful corsage that will be the talk of the event.
Want more great tips on creating a DIY corsage? Make sure to check out our blog for more!