Lapel Pin

Definition and Placement

A lapel pin is a decorative accessory worn on the lapel of a suit or jacket, that is, the lower collar continuing from the front body. It is generally used by passing it through the flower hole on the left lapel or fastening the pin into the fabric nearby.

The flower hole is originally a hole for inserting a flower. A lapel pin can also be worn in this position, but it may be distinguished in terminology from a boutonniere, which refers to the flower itself or a decoration modeled after a flower.

Shape and Fastening

Designs include flowers, plants, animals, heraldic styles, ribbon shapes, and geometric forms. Shapes vary widely, from small raised motifs to slender rod-shaped pins, and the balance with the width of the lapel and the texture of the fabric affects how they look.

Fastening methods often involve passing a needle-like shaft through the fabric or flower hole and securing it with a clasp on the back. Fasteners include catch types and screw types, and the pin length, tip sharpness, and stability affect how easy it is to attach to a jacket.

• The type that passes through the flower hole uses the position of the hole for attachment.
• The type that is pinned directly into the fabric can also be attached to lapels without a hole.
• Some chain-attached types are fastened decoratively using a buttonhole or similar point.

Materials and Finish

The main body may be made of metal such as brass, as well as glass, rhinestones, imitation pearls, resin, and other materials. Depending on the material, color, surface sheen, and whether stones or parts are included, the look can range from understated to glamorous.

The metal parts may be finished with a subdued sheen, a mirror-like finish, plating, and similar treatments. When worn, there is no need to match them exactly with the metal color of the jacket buttons or a wristwatch, but organizing the number of colors and the level of sheen can create a more cohesive look.

How to Coordinate with an Outfit

They are used as a chest accent with business suits, jacket styles, and party or celebratory outfits. For daytime wear, pieces with restrained material texture and color tend to blend in easily, while for evening dinners or festive occasions, pieces with sheen and decorative appeal are also options.

For formal wear and semi-formal wear, priority is given to local custom, the dress code on the invitation, and instructions from the host. In solemn ceremonies and mourning occasions in particular, it is common to avoid decorative lapel pins. For black tie and white tie, the prescribed way of arranging the chest area according to the dress rules takes priority over a lapel pin.

How to Choose and Precautions for Use

When choosing one, check the size and weight of the motif, the thickness of the pin, and how securely the fastener stays in place. Heavy pieces or those with thick pins may pull the lapel down or leave pin marks on delicate wool fabrics or thin materials, so caution is needed.

Attach and remove it on a flat surface so the tip does not catch on the outer fabric or lining. After use, gently wipe away sweat and sebum with a soft cloth, and store it so it does not come into contact with other accessories. For plated, adhesive-decorated, or stone-set products, also be careful about changes caused by moisture and friction.

Frequently Asked Questions