The Handlebar Guide to Lapel AccoutrementsThink beyond the pocket square by adding one of these subtle yet sophisticated accents to your wardrobe

By Yang-Yi Goh | Photographs by Paul Wax

WHILE WE HERE AT HANDLEBAR are certainly supporters of the growing numbers of guys who are doing their darnedest to improve their personal style—by learning to dress like men, rather than boys—it’s made it a little harder at times to stand out from the crowd. Amid a sea of pocket squares and properly fitting suits, it’s the understated details that make a difference: a fantastic pair of cufflinks, perhaps, or boldly hued socks that peek out ever so slightly.

Among the most underutilized appurtenances in a man’s arsenal are lapel pins and boutonnieres, which can either serve as complementary accents or add an element of sophistication to a simple ensemble. More than anything, though, these unassuming accessories provide a dash of unexpected panache—a feat that is becoming harder and harder to achieve in our increasingly well-dressed world.

Below, we explore three elegant yet affordable options that will elevate your style and ensure you remain the freshest-looking gent in the room.

 

THE LAPEL FLOWER

UNLESS YOU HAVE the swagger to pull off (and the bank account to afford) actual fresh flowers as your daily boutonniere—like the late, great Pierre Trudeau once did—these felt variations are a worthy substitute.

Favored by steezy Italian sartorialists, the flowers have an eye-catching, pop art quality to them that make them the perfect accompaniment to a linen jacket or cotton suit in the summertime.

While higher-end options are available from labels like Lardini, we’re partial to these beautiful, far more attainable versions handmade by Styleforum member Mr. K. The flowers are made-to-order, come in a wide range of color combinations, and are remarkably inexpensive. With Mr. K constantly innovating new designs, there’s no reason not to pick up a couple sets to help dapper up your warm weather wardrobe before the next outdoor wedding your girlfriend forces you to attend.

THE SILK KNOT

IF YOU STILL WANT that confident splash of color on your lapel, but you’re worried that the flower might be a little too dandyish for your tastes, fear not. There’s another, less eccentric option out there that utilizes something you probably already own: silk knot cufflinks.

A look endorsed by Lawrence Schlossman of Sartorially Inclined, simply pop a single silk knot through the buttonhole on your lapel, and you’re good to go.

Silk knots are subtle, refined, and fairly easy to come by—they’re available in a vast array of colors from places like Brooks Brothers, J. Press, and FineAndDandyShop.com. Depending on the season or situation, you can tone down with a low-key, monochromatic knot, or opt for a louder pop with a brighter two-toned affair. The choice is yours.

 

THE LAPEL PIN

IF YOU AREN’T a presidential candidate, avoid American flag pins at all costs—they’re not patriotic, just tacky. Instead, look to adorn your lapel with something with a little more personality; something that will speak to your character and tactfully reveal your quirks and oddities. After all, what could be more American than expressing your individuality?

Because lapel pins are often embellished in gold or silver (making them one of the few acceptable forms of man jewelry), they’re a fantastic way to dress up your casual garb. Affix one to an unstructured blazer, leave a couple shirt buttons open, and step out for a night on the town.

If nothing else, it’ll serve as a great conversation piece when you eventually man up and get the nerve to talk to the alluring lady across the bar.