Historically worn to ward off evil spirits and bad luck and thought to protect against diseases boutonnieres became a fashion statement in the 18th century. Today, boutonnieres are worn for special occasions such as weddings where the flower used is from the bouquet. Boutonnieres can be worn by grooms, groomsmen, fathers, grandfathers, ushers, and even women who don't want to wear the traditional wrist corsage.