Men's Dress Etiquette for Lapel Pins

Presidents displaying lapel pins appropriately on the left lapel.

Lapel pins are a subtle means of expression in men's fashion. Worn on the lapels of suits, lapel pins are appropriate in a professional environment. When wearing an organization's lapel pin, a man indicates that he identifies himself with the represented organization and its symbol.

Function

A lapel pin is a business-appropriate way for a man to display an affiliation with a group such as a fraternal organization, professional association or nationality.

Location

Lapel pins are usually worn on the left lapel. When worn as a lapel pin, the American flag should always be worn near the left lapel.

Significance

Particularly in business, a man should always know the meaning or significance of his lapel pin. It serves as a neutral discussion piece---it should have more meaning than a decorative piece of jewelry.

Size

Lapel pins should be subtle and small, no larger than 1/2 inch in any dimension.

Warning

Proper etiquette ensures a pin is worn in its intended direction. A man should ensure that his lapel pin is secure. An upside-down flag or religious symbol could send the opposite message intended.

References

• EmilyPost.com: Flag Etiquette
• SearchWarp.com: Top Ten Business Etiquette Faux Pas

Resources

• Lapel Pin American Flag Etiquette