Getting Down to the Basics
Here at Signature Pins, we talk a lot about what goes into making a set of custom lapel pins, but we don’t often get down to the basics of how to wear them. With that being said, we thought now was as good a time as ever to bring you up to speed on a few things related to lapel pin etiquette. The main things we want to go over are how to wear different styles of lapel pins, the placement of pins and a few basic things you should know about your pin before heading out on the town.
Styles of Custom Lapel Pins
There are different styles of lapel pins, and they all come in different sizes. The most popular sizes for our custom pins fall in the .75” to 1” range, but lapel pins can be as large as 3”. Size is usually accompanied by a specific attachment option for a set of pins. Smaller pins usually have a traditional post (or needle) on the back that comes with a butterfly or rubber clutch to attach the pin firmly in place.
Larger pins sometimes require an additional post and clutch to keep them steady on a lapel. For customers looking for a more classic style pin, or boutonniere (a floral decoration worn on the lapel of a suit or tuxedo jacket), the standard post and clutch can be replaced with a long stem. This style of lapel pin is known as a stick pin.
In either case, the colors and design of your lapel pin should match your tie and pocket square when in full formal attire. Gold and silver designs go well with most different suit colors, but when a pin design incorporates vibrant colors, it can be distracting. Lapel pins are meant to accentuate the look of your formal wear, so make sure to pair them with ties, pocket squares and shirts that compliment the design.
Lapel Pin Placement
Lapel pins always go on the left. Most suits and blazers already have a buttonhole ready for a lapel pin or boutonniere to be inserted. If your jacket does not have a spot for a lapel pin, just make sure to place your pin on the widest part of the left lapel and center it as best you can. The metal post attached to the back of your pin will be sharp enough and small enough to pierce through the fabric of your jacket without damaging the material.
Attaching your pin is easier if done before putting on your jacket, but standing in front of a mirror makes it pretty straightforward. For traditional lapel pins, pierce the fabric with the post, flip the lapel over and attach the clutch to secure the pin in place. For stick pins, there are two ways to wear the pin. You can either pierce the fabric with the stick pin and attach the cap on the back side of the lapel, or you can have the stick pin come back out to the front side of the lapel and cap the tip so that it’s visible on the outside of your lapel. In either case, the look is a matter of personal preference.
Make sure to only wear one lapel pin at a time. Having two or more pins takes away from their effect and creates an overly busy appearance.
Preparation
Lapel pins are an old tradition in political circles, fraternities and sororities, charities and clubs. They are perfect for showing affiliation to an organization or cause when designs incorporate emblems, a coat of arms or even an awareness ribbon design. When it comes to custom designs, lapel pins are a perfect place to show off a little personality. No matter what the case may be, be prepared to talk about the pin.
People will ask about the design and about what it represents. They are a great conversation starter and open up networking opportunities as more people share their own experiences that may have a connection to their own lapel pins. It’s not a matter of life and death, but having a thoughtful answer is a great way to get people talking; share ideas and start networking.
Custom Designs Tell Unique Stories
We believe that a custom lapel pin should be an extension of personality. They come in all kinds of custom shapes, sizes and colors, but the basic etiquette for using them is always the same. Just remember:
- Make sure your tie and/or pocket square matches your lapel pin.
- Always put your lapel pin on the left lapel.
- Only use one lapel pin at a time.
- Know the story behind your pin.
Our Signature Pins team helps people from all walks of life create special designs that tell a unique story. Our goal is for every design to capture a sense of personality and heritage in a quality pin that can be worn with pride. Our careful die striking process makes it easy to recreate emblems and company logos in the design, and we have options for different metal plating and colors that help make a set of pins stand out from the crowd.
If you’re interested in adding a custom look to your formal wear, give us a call today. Tell us your story and our team will set to work on a unique design for you and your team.
