Bouquet Styles: What They're Called, and What They Mean

Heading to the florist to discuss your wedding day bouquet? Don't know a cascade from a clutch? Have no fear! With our glossary of bouquet styles you'll handle the meeting like a pro.

Biedermeier A small, compact bouquet of flowers organized in alternating rings (like a bull's eye). The alternating rings might be of different types of flowers, or of the same variety in two colors.

Boutonniere A single bloom or bud wrapped in floral tape and ribbon, and attached to the lapel of the gentlemen in the wedding party. It often coordinates with the bride's or bridesmaid’s bouquets.

Cascade No, it's not a waterfall, but it does resemble one. The cascade style bouquet is loose and flowing. It's composed of blooms and greenery which, when wired correctly, cascade over the bride's hands.

Classic/Round Bouquet - The most timeless bouquet style - it's a cluster of densely gathered blooms. It can be wired together, held by a bouquet holder or hand tied. You can't go wrong with a classic bouquet.

Corsage - Either a single bloom or a small cluster of blooms, corsages are worn by mothers, grandmothers and other special female attendants. They can be accented with ribbon, fabric or greenery and can be pinned on, hand held, or worn on the wrist. Our favorite way to wear a corsage - pinned on your evening bag. You have beautiful blooms close at hand, without crushing them during hugs.

Nosegay - Prettier than it sounds - the nosegay is smaller and more densely packed than a classic bouquet. Like the classic bouquet, it can be held together by a bouquet holder, a wire or a hand tied.

Pomander - A great alternative to the flower girl's basket, the pomander is a ball of flowers suspended by a looped ribbon. When choosing a pomander, make sure it's in proportion to the size of the child carrying it.

Tussy Mussy - Not as fussy as the name implies, the tussy mussy dates from the Victorian era and - like many nostalgic touches - is making a comeback. It is a small posie carried in a cone shaped vase. Tussy mussy holders are often made of fine silver. You can find them at jewelry stores, estate sales and antique shops.

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