Lapel pins are traditionally worn on the left hand side to be over the wearer’s heart.

Attach the bottom of the stickpin so it shows on the front side of your lapel. It’s considered more modern to pierce the end of a stickpin back through the front of your lapel. If you want a more traditional or conservative look, leave the back of the pin on the backside of your lapel. You can simply reattach the back of the pin on that side of the lapel. If opting for the more conservative look, ask a tailor to sew an inconspicuous loop on the back of your lapel to hold your stickpin in place.

Adjust the pin as needed so it rests at the same angle as your lapel.

Silver can provide a more casual alternative to warmer tone metals.

If you’re just starting out, select a smaller pin until you get more comfortable crafting a complete look with a lapel pin. An associate at the department store can help you select a pin that’s the right proportion for your suit.

If you’re feeling bold, try choosing colors from the same part of the color wheel as your suit. A purple or green lapel pin could provide nice depth to a blue suit, whereas a red or orange pin might look gaudy. Neutral colors such as beige, gray, and black tend to go with everything, especially gray and black suits. Choosing pins in these colors will ensure your pin always matches your look.

A creative, statement-making lapel pin can make for a great conversation starter. [10] X Expert Source Tavia SharpCertified Image Consultant Expert Interview. 26 August 2021.

Some floral pins even look like real flowers. Choose formal fabrics, such as silk or satin, with elegant accents, like pearl, for a sophisticated twist on the traditional boutonniere. [11] X Research source

A typewriter lapel pin might be an office-appropriate choice for a newspaper job, for example. When in doubt, stick with classic symbols, such as a fleur de lis or a feather, that aren’t apt to offend anyone.