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The flower loop (flower-loop in traditional English tailoring) is the loop at the back of the left reverie of the collar. Handmade, and formerly used to put the stem of the flower behind. The flower that was put through the buttonhole. Usually a carnation and for special occasions a rose of course! The boutonniere, or 'buttonhole' to which many people refer, is not really used to fold up the lapel and close it when it's raining or windy, but is purely a floral decoration element. One inserts a single flower or 'stud'. 

By the way, if it is not a real passage, i.e. not functional, most people nowadays unfortunately pin the flower, or the 'corsage', with a safety pin or something similar. Especially with a dinner jacket or dinner jacket. Let's not think about the damage this causes to your collar. Especially if it is a silk one with a dinner jacket.

It also symbolises a certain tradition. And tradition, don't we love that as real gentlemen? Let's appreciate and cherish this little detail. And use it for its purpose, of course! 
Unfortunately, we are talking about a tradition that is becoming less and less common. Let's keep it simple and just wear a flower, a carnation, or maybe even a rose, on the lapel of your blazer when you go out to dinner for example. As an ode to your partner, or just for fun. People are guaranteed to look at you and even label you. Yes, as a dandy or playboy, when in fact you are just a gentleman. And also shows that you know your world. Because let's face it, can we only wear a flower to events?
At galas or weddings? It seems to me that a little elegance is always a bonus! 

Raphaël van den Poel, former fashion consultant of ScapaReinhard Frans and Atelier NA tailored suits, writes our weekly blog on gentleman matters. He writes for MYX Magazine, a Flemish luxury lifestyle platform. He also has his own blog which you can read here: http://belgiandandy.blogspot.com

Raphaël van den Poel
The Belgian Dandy