The Quiet Return of Brooches

You’ll notice brooches are firmly back in the spotlight lately — although truthfully … they’ve been quietly bubbling away for the past couple of years now.

What once felt vintage or slightly traditional now feels incredibly elegant again.

Maybe it’s the return to more personal styling or the shift towards outfits that feel a little more considered and individual but brooches have a way of instantly elevating even the simplest look.

The beauty of brooches is that there really are no rules. They feel most modern when styled in unexpected ways rather than overly traditional ones.

So if you’ve been wondering how to wear one … here are my 10 favourite ways to style them right now.

1. Layered

Multiple brooches styled together in a layered cluster … create a more modern and expressive finish.

2. On a Dress

Brooches clustered or scattered across a dress as seen at Miu Miu Fall 2024 RTW … create a more curated and collected feel.

3. At the Waist of a Blazer

Brooch securing a wrapped blazer at the waist creates an intentionally sculpted and cinched silhouette.

4. On the Neckline

Draws the eye in … adds a soft and polished focal point.

5. On the Collar

Brings a crisp and polished detail that feels quietly modern.

6. On a Blazer Lapel

Pop the collar and fold over the lapels … adds tailored detail that feels effortlessly polished and quietly confident.

7. On a Cuff

Adds a subtle detail that feels refined.

8. On a Sweater

Pinned and gently hitched on one side … adds an easy and asymmetric detail that feels relaxed yet intentional.

9. At the Back of a Blazer

An unexpected detail that feels elegant and quietly considered.

10. On a Bag

Pinned to a structured bag … it instantly makes it feel more individual.

Image sources: Pinterest (original creators unknown)

Brooches have a way of making an outfit feel more personal — as though it’s been styled with intention rather than thrown on.

Whether vintage or modern, simple or sculptural … they’re one of those small details that can quietly change everything.

Need even more inspiration? I’ve created a Pinterest board … a collection of brooch styling ideas I’ve been loving lately. Alongside this … I’ve curated a brooch edit if you’re window shopping .

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Why Most Style Rules Were Never Really About Style (and what you could do instead)