Worn to promote fertility and as protection against malevolent spirits, men throughout the world are draped in flowers during the wedding ceremony, from the Hawaiian maile lei to the Thai puang malai garland to the classic boutonniere.
Throughout the Middle Ages, a knight going into battle or entering a jousting tournament often donned a token ribbon, scarf, flower or pennant of his lady’s family crest over the left arm of his armor, where it was close to his heart. This is where we get the popular expression, “wearing your heart on your sleeve.” Wearing a lady’s colors was considered the epitome of chivalry since it signified that he was fighting for her specifically. Modern men have adapted this centuries-old tradition by choosing a flower from the bride’s bouquet to pin upon the left lapel of the wedding suit.
