What Wrist Do You Wear a Corsage?

Women have always enjoyed receiving flowers, so it's no surprise that corsages are a popular fashion accessory today. Whether for high school prom, wedding or golden anniversary, women love the touch of beauty that a corsage adds. But there are certain questions of etiquette that must be answered. Namely, upon which wrist should a corsage be worn?

History

As far as back 1756, the Boston Evening Post ran an advertisement for Boston bottles. These small ribbon-tied bottles, filled with a bit of water and a few seasonal flowers, were pinned to the bodice of a dress and worn as decoration. It's not difficult to see, then, where the idea of the corsage originated. Corsages gained popularity in the 1900's, and when high school proms became the elegant affairs of the 50's, the corsage became the traditional flower gift to a date. It was not until the 1980's that corsages were attached to a wrist band, thus saving countless boys from the embarrassment of sticking a date with a florist pin.

Significance

Wearing a wrist corsage seems to have gained popularity not just for high school girls but in wedding parties also. The bridesmaids have the advantage of having their hands free while still wearing flowers that complement the bridal look. For the high school date, a wrist corsage is much better suited for strapless gowns and saves the awkwardness of "pinning the corsage." Traditionally, for any occasion, the wrist corsage is worn on the left, since the left arm is closest to the heart.

Features

A wrist corsage consists of several small flowers, tied together with floral wire, and affixed to a wrist band. These corsages can be simple or elaborate, depending on the occasion or the budget. It's common to bring a swatch of a dress to the florist so that the flowers and ribbons will match the dress. Some of the flowers used for a wrist corsage include tea roses or sweetheart roses, dendrobium orchids, alstroemeria lilies, and even carnations.

Considerations

Budget is always a consideration when purchasing a corsage. A wrist corsage may start at $10.00 and go as high as $35.00, depending on the region and flowers chosen. Mini-carnations, for example, can be a lovely and inexpensive corsage for a high school prom. Orchids, and some laces and ribbons, can be costly, but may be more appropriate for a wedding party.

Misconceptions

Though it is generally recognized as proper etiquette to wear the wrist corsage on the left, a left-handed date may prefer to wear her wrist corsage on her right arm. This is perfectly acceptable, since the corsage is a gift and the wearer should be comfortable. However, it may be necessary to direct all members of a wedding party to wear the wrist corsage on the left arm for consistency's sake.