Lapel Pins – Your Ultimate Guide

When you think about suit accessories, ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks probably come to mind first. But one subtle yet powerful detail often gets overlooked — the lapel pin.

So, what exactly is a lapel pin? Simply put, it’s a small decorative pin designed to be worn on the lapel of a suit, blazer, or coat. The name comes from its placement — “lapel” — the folded flap of fabric on the front of your jacket. But there’s more to it than that.

Lapel pins are usually about 1 to 2 centimeters in size — small enough to stay classy but bold enough to make a statement. They’re typically backed with one or two fasteners, like a butterfly clutch or magnetic pin, to keep them securely in place. This makes them easy to wear and take off without damaging your clothing.

If you’re wondering which type of lapel pin to choose, where to place it, and how to style it correctly, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about lapel pins, from the types available to their perfect placement and how to wear them like a pro.

1. Why Wear a Lapel Pin?

Lapel pins are more than just decoration — they’re a way to express who you are and what you stand for. Here’s why people wear them:

• Show Affiliation: Represent a club, fraternity, military unit, or professional organization.
• Symbol of Achievement: Celebrate milestones, awards, or corporate recognition.
• Personal Statement: Add a touch of your personality to a formal outfit.
• Fashion Accessory: Elevate your style and make your suit stand out.

👉 Pro Tip: For corporate events, a sleek, metallic die-struck pin gives a polished, professional look. For weddings or special occasions, a floral pin (boutonnière) adds charm and elegance.

Whether you’re heading to a wedding, an awards ceremony, or just want to elevate your everyday look, a lapel pin is a small detail that leaves a lasting impression. Let’s dive into the types of lapel pins and how to style them like a pro.

2. Types of Lapel Pins for Suits

When it comes to lapel pins, not all styles are created equal. Each type serves a unique purpose, and knowing which one to wear can take your outfit from good to great. Here are the five main types of lapel pins:

1. Stick Pins

• Best for: Weddings, award ceremonies, upscale dinners.
• Style: Vintage, classic, and sophisticated.
• Look: A thin pin with a small head (jewel, emblem, or design) at the top.
• When to Wear: Best worn with tuxedos or formal suits.

Pro Tip: Pair a gold stick pin with a black tuxedo for a sophisticated, classic look.

2. Floral Lapel Pins (Boutonnières)

• Best for: Weddings, proms, romantic events.
• Style: Romantic, celebratory, and sentimental.
• Look: A real or faux flower inserted into the lapel buttonhole.
• When to Wear: Ideal for wedding ceremonies, especially for the groom, groomsmen, and fathers of the bride and groom.

Pro Tip: While fresh flowers are traditional, fabric boutonnières are long-lasting and make great keepsakes.

3. Enamel Pins

• Best for: Corporate events, trade shows, creative industries.
• Style: Colorful, smooth, and modern.
• Look: Polished, colorful designs often featuring logos or artistic illustrations.
• When to Wear: Enamel pins are popular at creative events, conferences, and casual gatherings.

Pro Tip: Want to stand out at networking events? Wear a pin with a fun, quirky design — it’s a great conversation starter.

4. Die-Struck Pins

• Best for: Formal occasions, corporate awards, or brand events.
• Style: Sleek, minimal, and timeless.
• Look: Embossed all-metal pins with no color (think gold, silver, or bronze finish).
• When to Wear: Perfect for corporate recognition, awards, or moments when you want understated elegance.

Pro Tip: Die-struck pins offer a classic, prestigious vibe — ideal for CEOs, company founders, or event hosts.

5. Custom-Shaped Pins

• Best for: Personal branding, unique events, product launches.
• Style: Creative, playful, and one-of-a-kind.
• Look: Custom designs shaped into unique forms (like logos, characters, or abstract shapes).
• When to Wear: Use them to showcase your brand, logo, or favorite hobby in a fun, wearable form.

Pro Tip: Custom-shaped pins are a great way to represent brands at corporate events or promote a product launch.

3. Where to Place Your Lapel Pin? (Hint: It’s Not Just “Anywhere”)

There’s a bit of tradition and etiquette involved in lapel pin placement. Here’s how to get it right:

• Placement: The lapel pin should always go on the left side of the suit, close to your heart.
• Use the Buttonhole: Some suits have a pre-cut hole on the left lapel — that’s where it goes.
• Height: Avoid pinning it too low (chest-level) or too high (near your neck). Stick to the upper-middle section of the lapel.

Mistakes to Avoid: Wearing it on the right side (only state leaders do this) or stacking multiple large pins.

4. When Should You Wear a Lapel Pin?

Not every event calls for a lapel pin. Here’s when it works best and when to leave it at home:

When to Wear a Lapel Pin

• Formal Events: Weddings, award shows, and charity galas.
• Corporate Events: Product launches, conferences, and awards ceremonies.
• Creative Events: Trade shows, exhibitions, and creative industry meetups.

When NOT to Wear a Lapel Pin

• Job Interviews: You don’t want to seem “too flashy” — opt for minimalism.
• Super-Casual Outfits: Avoid wearing pins with hoodies or ultra-casual attire.
• Military Funerals: Wear symbols of respect, such as a national flag, if applicable.

5. How to Style a Lapel Pin with Your Suit

Here’s how to match lapel pins to suit colors for a polished look:

Suit Color	Recommended Pin Colors	Style Tip
Black Suit	Gold, white, or silver	Perfect for classic, elegant events.
Navy Blue	Burgundy, gold, or white	Rich tones contrast beautifully.
Gray Suit	Black, silver, or navy	Keep it clean and sophisticated.
Tan Suit	Maroon, green, or navy	Earth tones create a natural aesthetic.

Pro Tip: Match the color of your lapel pin to your pocket square or tie for a coordinated look.

6. Final Thoughts: Lapel Pins Are The Finishing Touch

A lapel pin is more than a suit accessory — it’s a statement. From floral boutonnières at weddings to die-struck pins at awards shows, they add style, prestige, and personality to any formal outfit. If you’re looking to stand out with style or make a statement, a lapel pin is your best option.

Whether you prefer the elegance of a gold stick pin, the playful charm of an enamel pin, or the tradition of a classic boutonnière, wearing a lapel pin is a chance to show off your unique style. With so many options available, there’s no excuse not to add one to your suit game.

Looking for high-quality, custom-made lapel pins? With over 20 years of experience, Factorypin can turn your idea into reality. From custom designs to exclusive finishes, we make lapel pins for every occasion. Whether you need 30 or 3,000 pins, Factorypin delivers quality, craftsmanship, and fast production.

Ready to create a custom lapel pin that tells your story? Contact Factorypin today and turn your vision into a timeless accessory.