Contemporary Boutonniere is a new Forever stamp issued by the Post Service. Similar in design to the two-ounce Garden Corsage stamp, it can be used on RSVP envelopes often enclosed with wedding invitations. It is also perfect for party invitations, thank-you notes, and announcements, in addition to regular correspondence.
The Contemporary Boutonniere stamp art features a photograph of a burgundy mini-cymbidium orchid bloom, a succulent, and a touch of green hydrangea, accented with loops of variegated lily grass. Each of these materials is right on trend for today’s modern designs. This boutonniere, although suitable for a gentleman, can also be a choice for a lady especially if she prefers something tailored in design. The touch of hydrangea softens the look to make that transition an easy one.
For centuries, boutonnieres—or buttonhole flowers, as they were called in Britain—were a staple of a well-dressed man’s outfit. For most of the 20th century, a single flower pinned to a lapel or inserted into a jacket buttonhole was part of a sophisticated, debonair man’s wardrobe. Today, boutonnieres, still very fashionable, are worn at weddings by the groom, groomsmen, father of the groom, and best man, and at other special occasions, including proms, anniversaries, retirement parties, or military memorial services.
The boutonniere was arranged by floral designer Carol Caggiano and photographed by Renée Comet. Art director Ethel Kessler designed the stamp.
The Contemporary Boutonniere stamp is being issued as Forever stamps. These Forever stamps will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail one-ounce price.
