Photo by Mikey Neff

Fashion

Wild Thing: 7 Boutonnieres, 0 Carnations

Flower power!

by Molly Guy

In the early 19th century, boutonnieres—a cluster of flowers worn on the left lapel of a groom's suit jacket—were created to ward off disease, odor, and evil spirits. These days, they've become another gag-worthy trope of the modern-day marriage ritual, usually comprising starchy carnations and stiff baby's breath, meant to complement the floral arrangement that the glorious wife-to-be is holding in her arms. So what to do when you want to subvert stupid traditions but still walk down the aisle with your soul and style intact? Enter The Black Tux, a cool suit rental service, which has collaborated with Stone Fox Bride to create seven outrageously cool and bizarre boutonnieres that give real meaning to the phrase "Flower Power."

Model: Kossivi AlokpoviTuxedos: The Black TuxPhotography: Mikey NeffBoutonnieres: Aurora Botanica

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Not To Worry”

Made with eucalyptus, ranunculus, baby lilies, and a Mexican worry doll—created by indigenous people from the Guatemala Highlands, and meant to be placed underneath the pillow before bed to remove sorrows—this vibrant boutonniere is fragrant, delicate, and good for the anxious groom struck with insomnia.

Model is wearing The Light Grey Suit by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Crystal Vision”

Made with selenite, spirea, ranunculus, and rose quartz—otherwise known as the “love stone” for its strong vibration of warmth and healing—this dusky sunset beauty will spread the message of everlasting union post-"I do"s.

Model is wearing The Blue Suit by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Good As Gold”

Made with poppy, ranunculus, gold flakes, and a Ganesha figurine—the Hindu deity representing generosity and acceptance—this bundle of auspiciousness will pack a psychedelic punch to your pink suit.

Model is wearing the Rose Shawl Collar Tuxedo by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Iron + Wine”

Made with a silver skull pendant, black ranunculus, and a vial of dragon's blood—known to cleanse and exorcise a new space of the energies of the former occupant—this vibrant goth truss is great for a groom who's moving out of his bachelor pad and into a two-bedroom with his blushing bride.

Model is wearing The White Dinner Jacket by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Southern Comfort”

Make no bones about it: Made with white tweedia, a raccoon penis bone (otherwise known as the “mountain man toothpick”), and an alligator tooth—which, along with the penis bone, represents luck and protection—this nugget of ephemera is perfect for the nervous groom craving a deep dose of serendipity.

Model is wearing The Black Watch Tartan Tuxedo by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Heart Of Stone”

Made with chocolate oncidium, palo santo, and a river lingam stone—a smooth sacred pebble known for nurturing the third eye chakra, the center of pleasure and creativity—this earthy delight will do wonders for the intrepid artist who doesn’t want to give up his late nights in the painting studio.

Model is wearing the Tan Suit by The Black Tux.

Photo by Mikey Neff

The “Nest Egg”

Made with delphinium and a blue robin's egg—which represents spring and new beginnings—this pale indigo nosegay is great for the groom who's ready to start a brood.

Model is wearing The Blue Vest by The Black Tux.