School Ball Corsages & Buttonholes: The Complete Guide
Our school ball wrist corsages are $75, handmade in Cambridge to match your dress. Order yours online or call us on 07 823 0119, then collect it from our shop on ball day or have it delivered in Cambridge ($15) or Hamilton ($20).
Wrist corsage or pin-on?
- Wrist corsage: worn on a band around the wrist. It’s the most popular choice for school balls because it doesn’t damage the dress and stays put while dancing.
- Pin-on corsage: pinned to the dress or jacket. It suits sturdier fabrics, but can pull on delicate or strapless dresses.
Buttonholes for partners
A buttonhole (boutonnière) is the matching flower worn on a jacket lapel. It’s traditional for a partner to wear one that matches the corsage. Ask us when you order and we’ll make a matching pair.
Matching your corsage to your dress
- Bring a photo or fabric swatch of your dress, or send us a picture when you order.
- White, cream and blush flowers suit almost any colour.
- For bold dresses, we can pick up an accent colour in the ribbon or a single bloom.
- Tell us about your jewellery, as silver or gold ribbon ties it together.
When to order
School ball season in the Waikato runs mainly through winter. We recommend ordering at least a week before your ball, and earlier if several schools hold their balls on the same weekend.
Ball day: collection and delivery
- Pick up from 57 Victoria Street, Cambridge, during our shop hours on the day, free of charge.
- Delivery is $15 in Cambridge and $20 to Hamilton. Order by 12pm, Monday to Friday, for same-day delivery.
Keeping your corsage fresh
- Keep it in its box in the fridge until you’re ready to leave. Don’t put it near fruit.
- Put it on just before photos, and keep it out of direct sun.
- A light mist of water keeps the petals fresh, but avoid soaking the ribbon.
- After the ball, hang it upside down in a dry, dark place to keep it as a dried memento.
Corsage questions
How much is a school ball corsage?
Our wrist corsage is $75.
Do guys wear corsages?
Partners usually wear a buttonhole on the jacket lapel rather than a corsage. We can make one to match.
Can I order a corsage for a wedding or formal?
Yes. We also make corsages for mothers of the bride, formals and other events. See our wedding flowers page.