Whether you’re going to a wedding, prom, homecoming, or graduation, a corsage will add that extra bit of spice to your formal attire. You’ve certainly come across scenes of the lead of a coming-of-age film standing at the entrance to his date’s house with a corsage on prom night. And, now it can be your turn.
When choosing a corsage for yourself or your date, it’s important that you pick one that combines the theme and colors of the event. So, how much do corsages cost and how can that vary based on the type of flower and the design of your choice? You’ll find everything you need to know before buying one here.
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How Much a Corsage is Going to Cost?
A typical fresh flower corsage can cost you somewhere between $10 to $65. However, the cost can vary based on a number of factors. The main cost determining element is your choice of flower. The design and the amount of the florist’s labor also affect the price.
Depending on where you purchase it from, the location and reputation of the vendor can play a role in deciding its price too. Here’s a list of factors that you need to pay attention to when setting aside a budget for your corsage:
The Type of Corsage
Corsages can come in various shapes and forms. You typically want to pick one that goes well with your outfit. The cost can be different depending on the type with your preferred method of wearing. The most common types of corsages are:
- Pin-on Corsage
A pin-on corsage is typically worn on the bodice or the strap of the dress. The stem comes wrapped securely in floral tape and with a pin for attaching it to your dress. Pin-on is considered to be the more traditional style of the two.
- Wrist Corsage
As the name suggests, you wear a wrist corsage on your wrist like a bracelet. It typically has flowers fastened to either a bracelet or a decorative elastic strap that you wear on your non-dominant hand. Pin-on corsages are suited for more formal attire, while wrist corsages tend to go with practically anything. For sleeveless and strapless dresses, a wrist corsage is your best option.
They tend to cost $5-$15 more than their pin-on counterparts since they’re usually larger. It’s recommended that you pick this type in case you’re unsure about what your partner will be wearing.
- A Boutonniere
A boutonniere in plain words is a pin-on corsage for men. Derived from the French word for “Buttonhole Flower”, it’s usually worn on the lapel of a man’s jacket and a loop holds the stem in place behind the lapel. If you’re going to an event as a pair, you typically want to coordinate the corsage and boutonniere with your partner as a display of your connection.
Boutonnieres tend to be cheaper than their female counterparts and range somewhere between $10 to $40.
The Flower
The flower is unarguably the most important element of your corsage and contributes the most to its cost. Generally, you want to get a flower that matches your outfit for the event. The flower’s color will set the tone for your corsage. If you’re not sure about which color to pick, white flowers tend to be the safest option since they go with everything.
Additionally, most flowers used for occasions have their own meaning. You should look into the floral meaning of the flowers to understand what they convey before you choose one for maximum significance. In general,
- Carnations tend to be the cheapest ranging from anywhere between $5 to $20.
- Alstroemeria is also a fairly inexpensive option and can be found for a similar price.
- Roses and Orchids are quite popular choices as well. You can find a decent rose or orchid corsage starting from $20 with some costing over $45.
- Corsage including Calla Lilies and Stephanotis are usually on the more expensive side and can range from $30 to $65.
- If you want silk flowers, it’ll cost you around $10 to $20.
Number of Flowers
A corsage typically comes with at least one focal flower that’s usually displayed on a bed of green plants or a baby’s breath. Depending on the size of the, it can contain up to five flowers grouped together. The price of your corsage is going to be determined by the number of flowers.
The Design
The design is the second-most cost deciding element of your corsage. Complex designs with multiple flowers require more effort. For example, a wrist corsage requires more work compared to a pin-on corsage and can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. That’s why the price of your corsage is going to differ vastly based on its design and how long it takes to create.
Designs that take more time and effort will be more expensive. If your design requires a lot of embellishments, the overall price will be higher. Depending on whether you buy a pre-made corsage or a custom-made one, the cost will also be different as pre-made corsages are comparatively cheaper.
The Season
Depending on the season when you’ll be purchasing your corsage, the price of some flowers will be different. You’ll find flowers that are in season for much cheaper than off-season flowers.
The Location
Your location is also an important factor when determining the cost. Since flowers have to be shipped carefully from all over the country, local flowers are always going to be cheaper than other options since shipping adds to the price of the flowers.
You should also take into account the florist’s reputation since more popular flower shops can charge extra for quality.
Additional Expenses
If you’re shopping remotely, you’ll be charged for shipping. When ordering a corsage, you generally want to order it a couple of days in advance since last-moment orders sometimes can have additional fees tacked on. You’ll also have to pay extra if you want same-day delivery.
How Can I Cut Costs?
If you’re looking to save a bit of your budget on corsages, your best bet is to look for discounts. Flower shops often tend to offer discounts during big events and wedding season. Buying in bulk is another method of saving a bit of money. You can also order in advance and have it delivered on the day of your event, to avoid additional charges.
If you’re not particular about certain flowers, you should prioritize local in-season flowers since they are going to cost less. Check your local supermarket to see if they sell corsages. You might not be able to find quality corsages but it’ll be less expensive than a dedicated flower shop.
Final Words
A corsage is an extension of a person’s fashion and therefore should match the overall look of the rest of the outfit as well as the atmosphere of the event. You want to get the right corsage for yourself and your partner when attending a formal event. So, it’s best to have an idea of what to look for when purchasing a corsage and how much does corsages cost.
As a general rule, it’s recommended that you expend around 5-15% of the price of your dress on a corsage. The corsage’s price typically includes the cost of the flower you picked for the event, the florist’s labor in styling, arranging, and decorating the flowers along with the ribbon and wrap that come with the final product and can be anywhere between $10 and $65.
Alana Young
Hi, I am Alana Young. As a lifestyle expert, I have studied and researched the ways of life of people far and wide. I can say that I have extensive knowledge in the field to teach and educate people on the proper lifestyles to lead, as well as how to effectively manage costs and maximize output in all aspects of their lives.
FAQs
How much is the average wrist corsage? ›
The basic corsage for prom starts under $40 with the most popular price range being from $55-65. All of our prices include the roses or orchids of your choice. Adding other flowers could incur an additional cost (like calla lilies or stephanotis.)
How much is a standard corsage? ›Corsages using roses and orchids are moderately expensive, typically ranging from $20 to $45. Expensive corsages including Calla lilies typically range from $30 to $35. Stephanotis corsages tend to be the most expensive, typically ranging from $45 to $55. Silk flower corsages typically range from $5 to $15.
How many days in advance should you buy a corsage? ›It's best to order your corsage at least a week before your prom night. Especially if you have a customized corsage, you'll want to give the florist plenty of time to make it. As for picking up the corsage, this will occur the day of prom since it a live flower arrangement and you want it to be fresh.
How many flowers should a corsage average? ›Corsages and boutonnieres can have 1 or up to 5 flowers. They can be of any color and a combination of colors.
Who is supposed to buy the corsage? ›Traditionally, the male brings his date a corsage when he picks her up for prom or a homecoming dance, and the female brings the boutonniere. Of course, females can buy their own corsages, too. Or friends can purchase corsages or boutonnieres for each other if they're going in a group.
Are wrist corsages still a thing? ›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.
Do people buy corsages for prom? ›If you have a prom date, they'll usually gift you the corsage. Prom dates typically wear matching corsage and boutonniere flower arrangements, and a boutonniere is often the male equivalent of a corsage. Wearing a corsage is a long-standing tradition for prom accessories.
Do you buy corsages for homecoming? ›According to tradition, the boy is to buy a corsage for his homecoming date. The couple can go to the floral shop together to select a corsage to match her dress color and style.
What is the most popular type of corsage used for prom? ›What is the hottest corsage for proms? Two popular styles are wrist corsages and small hand-held nosegays.
Which wrist do you wear a corsage on? ›The wrist corsage, also known as the bracelet corsage, is the most popular prom style. A wrist corsage is a small arrangement, usually three or four flowers or perhaps even a single flower and is typically worn on the left wrist.
How do I keep my corsage fresh for 2 days? ›
We recommend using a spray bottle and misting the flowers (especially the stems) while in clear corsage boxes. Also, consider placing the corsage in the refrigerator. The clear corsage box will help prevent the flowers from getting crushed by other items in your fridge.
What color should a corsage be? ›A corsage (and a boutonniere) should match and complement your date's attire. So even if you're going with a pre-made design, be sure the flower and ribbon colors match or complement your date's outfit. The last thing you want is to present your date with a corsage that clashes terribly with his or her outfit.
What are five common flowers used in a corsage? ›Popular flower options are roses, carnations, orchids, chrysanthemums and lilies. Roses and carnations are great because they come in a variety of colours and are sturdy flowers that will last the entire evening.
How long should a corsage last? ›How long does a corsage stay fresh? According to Neubauer's Flowers, freshly cut flowers last only 10 to 12 days, and that's if they are handled and cared for correctly. That means you don't want to have your corsage or boutonniere delivered too early, as it will likely wilt before you get to your special event.
What does 12 roses mean? ›A Twelve Rose bouquet is one of the most popular number of roses meaning, telling your special someone “Be Mine.” Offering a dozen roses is like shouting out “I just won the lottery with you,” while at the same time being one of the simplest and most honest ways to ask the love of your life to be yours.
What does a wrist corsage mean? ›A corsage, as we know it today, is a little flower bouquet worn on the lapel, wrist, or other part of the body. A corsage is always appropriate, whether worn to show respect, to ward off evil spirits, or simply to add a bit of flair to an outfit. Corsages have evolved in design over the years.
What is the purpose of a corsage? ›Function. Corsages are worn to honor people, such as recipients of awards, or for other special occasions. At a baby shower, the mother- to-be is honored with a corsage that is usually pink or blue for the baby's gender or both if the gender is not known.
What is the difference between corsage and wristlet? ›The simple answer is that a corsage is typically worn by the woman on her left chest(pin-on) or wrist(wristlet) while the boutonniere is worn by the man on his left lapel. There are several different styles of corsages and boutonnieres which can be customized to match the dress color.
Are corsages old fashioned? ›A wrist corsage is only as old-fashioned as its design. To give it a modern look, try a flower that is big and elegant, like a gardenia or a flat garden rose, and opt for a ribbon base over an elastic band. Or, try something entirely different, like a flower tucked in the back of upswept hair.
Which is better a wrist corsage or pin? ›“The wrist corsage is the more popular option since it's more easily worn," she explains. "Due to the nature of dress fabric, a pin-on corsage can snag the threading of the dress, which is why most women shy away from them.”
Why do you give a girl a corsage? ›
A corsage is a small bouquet of flowers, or even a single flower, worn by a woman. The tradition of wearing a corsage goes back to ancient Greece when women wore flowers for protection from spirits and for good luck.
Are corsages still in style for prom? ›Though the traditional corsages and boutonnieres are still extremely popular, we're seeing the addition of more bouquets and softer colors. In this Flower School How-To Video Leanne shares an on-trend prom bouquet with gorgeous garden roses from GardenRosesDirect.com. Enjoy! Prom 2022 promises to be unique.
What can I use instead of prom corsages? ›Bangles, beads, multiple strands of rhinestones, fancy cuff bracelets in silver, gold or any wire creation imaginable have replaced the cheapy wristlets of corsages past. Slap bracelets are also used as a base, easily painted or sprayed with glitter to match an overall look.
What flowers to give a girl for prom? ›It's hard to go wrong with roses, and red is always an excellent choice. The Perfect Pair is a red wrist corsage paired with a red boutonniere that can be delivered to your date's door. If you want something more exotic, consider lilies or orchids.
Should I get my hoco date a corsage? ›Corsages are appropriate accents for your homecoming attire. Giving flowers to your homecoming date is a traditional and thoughtful gift. Roses and orchids are popular choices, but unique dance flowers can also be crafted with a skillful florist.
Do people bring corsages to Hoco? ›Giving flowers to one's date has long been an important part of this tradition. Traditionally a male student buys a fresh floral corsage for his homecoming date and she chooses a boutonniere for him.
What should you not wear to homecoming? ›Don't wear long prom dresses, but don't wear dresses that are too short. Homecoming is not prom, so you'll look silly if you show up in a floor length ball gown. Be attentive to the length of your dress. A dress that is too short can be inappropriate (and this is a school dance after-all).
Which is a common corsage ribbon size? ›One of the most common corsage types is created on a piece of 1.5-2" wide ribbon.
Do you buy wrist corsage for homecoming? ›The boy should present the corsage to his date when he picks her up for the dance. Corsages are to be worn on the left shoulder or wrist. Wrist corsages are most commonly worn for homecoming dances.
What is the most common corsage worn at a high school prom? ›Prom Floral Styles
Classic wrist corsage: This corsage is one of the most popular options for prom. It's comfortable to wear on your wrist, and you can choose different colors to match your dress.
Who gets a wrist corsage? ›
The bride's mother, groom's mother, all the grandmothers, and any female readers during your ceremony traditionally wear a corsage on their wrist, or a pinned corsage to their clothing. If you have a female officiant that you really connect with, you could even consider giving them a corsage as well.
What is a wrist corsage called? ›Wrist Corsages
The wrist corsage, also known as the bracelet corsage, is the most popular prom style. A wrist corsage is a small arrangement, usually three or four flowers or perhaps even a single flower and is typically worn on the left wrist.
High school and college homecoming dances take place in the fall during football season a day or two after the football homecoming game. They are formal affairs where students gather to show school spirit, enjoy each others' company and dance. Corsages and boutonnieres are traditionally worn to homecoming dances.
Do you get a corsage for Hoco? ›Giving flowers to one's date has long been an important part of this tradition. Traditionally a male student buys a fresh floral corsage for his homecoming date and she chooses a boutonniere for him.
What are the two types of corsages? ›Traditionally, given by her date there are two main choices. They are wrist or pinned corsages. If your dress has sleeves, you can pin to it. For strapless or sleeveless dresses, a wrist corsage will work best.
What color should your corsage be? ›A corsage (and a boutonniere) should match and complement your date's attire. So even if you're going with a pre-made design, be sure the flower and ribbon colors match or complement your date's outfit. The last thing you want is to present your date with a corsage that clashes terribly with his or her outfit.
How long will a wrist corsage last? ›How long does a corsage stay fresh? According to Neubauer's Flowers, freshly cut flowers last only 10 to 12 days, and that's if they are handled and cared for correctly. That means you don't want to have your corsage or boutonniere delivered too early, as it will likely wilt before you get to your special event.
Are prom corsages still a thing? ›Prom Season 2022 is shaping up to be quite a busy one! Though the traditional corsages and boutonnieres are still extremely popular, we're seeing the addition of more bouquets and softer colors.
Why wear a corsage upside down? ›Ladies wear a button hole / corsage on their right
So the stem should be pointing towards her shoulder. The reason for this? Gravity and busts! The flower is top heavy and so are most women.
Function. Corsages are worn to honor people, such as recipients of awards, or for other special occasions. At a baby shower, the mother- to-be is honored with a corsage that is usually pink or blue for the baby's gender or both if the gender is not known.