It's been ages—okay, decades—since brooches were an it-accessory, but guess what? They're making a major comeback.
Designers are getting creative, putting a modern twist on this timeless piece, and suddenly, brooches are the talk of the town again.
While the brooch was once reserved for your granny’s jewellery stash and the lavish brooch collection of the British Royals (Queen Elizabeth II is rumoured to have owned nearly 100) fashion is a merry-go-round: what's old always becomes new again.
“The brooch was always underrated but now everyone loves a brooch,” explains vintage jewellery brand founder and creative director Susan Caplan, “Brooches sort of equate to propriety and polish, So I think when people see them on these TV dramas like Bridgerton and The Crown I think people just want to emulate that and wear them.”
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© Claudio LaveniaBrooches are the ultimate comeback kid. These pieces started as mere clothing fasteners but quickly turned into the go-to for making a style statement in the 1500s. Fast forward to SS24, and brooches are yet again stealing the spotlight on runways, red carpets and with the street style set.
“Brooches are definitely making a comeback, we could see them all over the catwalk. Brands like Armani, Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera all featured them in their catwalk shows,” says renowned stylist Harriet Nicholson, “I think people are really leaning away from quiet luxury and into maximalism again which is quite refreshing.”
The latest fashion shows were a feast for the eyes with brooches in every shape and size. Chanel brought out the big guns with camellias that seemed to bloom right off the outfits. Erdem's showstopper was a glitzy gold dragonfly that looked like it was about to take flight. Meanwhile Schiaparelli’s Daniel Roseberry has been a consistent champion of the brooch ever since joining the surrealist maison.
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© Jeremy Moeller“Lots of people have brooches in old jewellery boxes handed down from their grandmas,” explains Harriet, “You can buy them vintage. So that also plays into our desire for re-wearing things.”
This past fashion month, the pavements were a runway of their own with fashionistas getting inventive with brooches—pinning them on everything from blazers to scarves. Making it crystal clear: brooches aren't just for the bottom of our jewellery boxes anymore.
So how do you wear a brooch?
According to Harriet, the brooch is the ultimate accessory, “You can jazz up any boring outfit instantly and take it from day to night.” Clearly the brooch is endlessly versatile, “You can put them on a handbag, you can wear it in your hair carefully,” says Susan Caplan. It also can be worn as a pendant, “You just get a chain and you put it through the pin part.”
As for wearing brooches with clothing, the opportunities are equally abundant Susan tells us, “You don't just need to wear it where everyone used to wear it, on a lapel. If you wear it much higher, it really can look fabulous. I style it on the shoulder.” For styling it for everyday the jeweller suggests fasting it to “the top part of the polo neck, It looks fabulous just sitting at the side.”
Scroll on for the best brooches to shop in 2024...
1/15
Feather Brooch
Victoria Beckham
Editors Note: For work, this adds personality to a check blazer. For a boho vibe, clip it onto a hat or wrap dress.
I'm totally drawn to this Feather Brooch because of its playful, design and luxurious gold-plated brass mixed with soft ostrich feather—it screams whimsy and sophistication.
2/15
Starry Night Brooch
Latelita
Editors note: I’d style this brooch with a sleek black dress for evenings, or pin it on a denim jacket for a day look, it’s that perfect, sparkling touch for any occasion.
This cosmic brooch is like wearing a little piece of the universe. Crafted from sterling silver with stars that twinkle the additional pearls just add to its whimsical vibe.
3/15
Red Rose Brooch
Moos Studio
Editor's note: I'd use it to add a dash of floral finesse to a little black dress or to bring a pop of colour to the lapel of a casual blazer. And let's not forget hair—tucking this brooch into a loose bun would be an elegant way to turn heads at any event.
There's something about the silk shantung fabric of this rose brooch, with its chic luster and silkiness, that adds an instant upgrade to any outfit.
4/15
Metal Torso Brooch
Zara
Editor's note: For styling, I’d go minimalist to let the brooch be the showstopper. For a softer look, I’d attach it to a white silk blouse, adding a touch of golden glamour to the simplicity. It’s also the perfect partner to a little black dress, offering a chic focal point that’s both classy and conversation-starting.
This brooch is a wearable work of art that celebrates the female form in all its curvaceous glory. The sculptural aspect adds a surrealist vibe that's both sophisticated and a touch rebellious. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s unapologetically feminine.
5/15
Anagram Brooch
Loewe
Editor's note: Rock it on a tailored pastel blazer or even use it to dress up a grey marl beanie. This one is a total wardrobe chameleon.
This Loewe brooch has got a luxe yet understated vibe that’s totally reaching cult-status. The variety of finishes—from gold to rose gold, palladium, and rhodium—means you match it with absolutely anything.
6/15
YSL gold-plated faux pearl brooch
Susan Caplan Vintage
Editor's note: I'd style this brooch as the standout piece on a structured black blazer, creating a juxtaposition of modern tailoring with vintage charm. For a casual brunch, imagine it pinned to an oversized denim jacket, rolling up the sleeves for that effortlessly cool vibe. It would even look divine on a belt, cinching in a flowing maxi dress.
This Yves Saint Laurent brooch, curated by Susan Caplan, is a vintage treasure that right up my street. There's something endlessly chic about the textured gold-plated spiral—like a little piece of fashion history that's as stylish now as it was back in the day. The baroque faux pearl is the perfect blend of opulence and playfulness.
7/15
Metal Brooch
Max Mara
Editor's note: This is just the thing to jazz up a knit vest. It's a statement that says, 'I like a bit of sparkle with my cozy.'
I'm super into this metal brooch with its acrylic details and that floral motif—it's like a little bloom for your outfit. It's great for when your ensemble needs a touch of gleam without going overboard.
8/15
Crystal and Pearl Brooch
Pearl Octopuss.y
Editor's note: Pinning this on the lapel of my go-to blazer is a no-brainer; it transforms workwear into a conversation-starter. It's not just jewellery; it's a wearable piece of art that promises to dial up any outfit from ordinary to chic.
The sea-inspired statement piece I never knew I needed. Handmade with silver-plated metal, it has this edgy yet sophisticated charm that's totally captivating. The centerpiece is baroque pearl that just oozes luxury, hugged by sparkly crystal rondelles that catch the light every which way. And that fringing? Like delicate tentacles.
9/15
Crescent Moon Brooch
Thomas Sabo
Editor's note: I'd pin this on a dark shawl to let it pop in the evening, or give a black cashmere beanie some night-sky vibes.
This crescent moon brooch is a dreamy little dazzler. Handcrafted in silver and peppered with blue and red stones and the star-shaped zirconia? Cosmic coolness.
10/15
Bee Brooch
Aspinal of London
Editor's note: Add a pop of luxe to a classic white tee and jeans combo. Or, let it fly solo on a tweed blazer.
Absolutely buzzing about this tiny tribute to the South Downs National Park's local bees wildlife. It's a collectable gem with heirloom quality, primed to be passed down.
11/15
Staffordshire Dog Brooches
Tatty Devine
These Staffordshire brooches are a quirky nod to those classic mantlepiece treasures. Fashioned from laser-cut acrylic with the cutest etched and hand-inked fur details, they’re real conversation pieces.
12/15
Parrot Brooch
Sonia Petroff
Editor's note: I’d have a blast styling this brooch. For a start, I'd pin them in the centre of the collar of a crisp white shirt, letting them perch. I'd also attach it to a bold-coloured clutch for that evening pop.
Each parrot, one in simulated topaz, the other in onyx, is a fusion of vibrant escapism and intricate detail—those cabochon eyes, the etched feathers, and the gold-dipped rope twists. It’s both statement and storyteller.
13/15
Silver-Tone Stone & Faux-Pearl Pin
Ralph Lauren
Editor's note: I'd wear it as the pièce de résistance on a blazer, adding a touch of Gatsby-esque chic that's perfect for roaring parties. Alternatively, pinning it on a silk scarf would give a simple outfit an instant upgrade.
This Lauren Ralph Lauren pin surrounded by faux pearls, has an air of old-world glamour that's both enchanting and timeless. The silver-tone setting just elevates its sophistication.
14/15
VLOGO Brass Brooch
Valentino Garavani
Editor's note: Perfect for elevating everyday wear into the realm of high fashion. I’d wear this brooch in a heartbeat with a sharply tailored blazer, letting it sit pretty on the lapel as my outfit’s crowning glory.
The perfect blend of ornate beauty and modern simplicity, twisted into that iconic V shape. Made from gold-toned brass, it’s got a shine that catches the eye without screaming for attention.
15/15
Pearl Vintage Brooch
Jon Richard
Editor's note: I envision this brooch as the perfect accent on simple cashmere sweater or elegant coat.
A small marvel that exudes timeless elegance. It's that rare piece that's both nostalgic and perfectly on-trend, a testament to the enduring appeal of brooches in fashion.
Why you should trust me:
With a solid decade in the fashion industry, I've navigated through countless trends and have been the go-to source for accessorizing advice. As an editor and journalist, I'm in the trenches of the latest fashion movements daily, hunting down the most striking and relevant brooches. Whether your style is elegantly floral or edgily minimalist, I offer insider knowledge on how to incorporate the ideal brooch into your wardrobe, ensuring you radiate confidence and style.
How We Picked the Perfect Brooches for You:
Versatility: I carefully selected brooches that reflect a wide range of themes and occasions. My aim was to find pieces that not only stand out but also complement various events and preferences.
Functions: Recognising that your day might take you from one event to another, I chose brooches that marry beauty with practicality. These picks are not just about making a statement; they're designed for versatility and ease of wear, allowing you to look your best in any situation.
Something for Everyone: Understanding that fashion is deeply personal, my curated selection spans across a spectrum of designs. From the intricately delicate to the boldly modern, there's a brooch here for every taste, ensuring you'll find the perfect piece to enhance your unique style.
