The Brooch Is Back And It’s No Longer Just for Grandmothers or Royalty
Once tucked away in heirloom jewellery boxes or reserved for royal engagements, the brooch has officially made its high-fashion comeback. But this isn’t the dainty pin you remember from your grandmother’s lapel. In 2025, brooches are bold, playful, and refreshingly versatile, popping up in unexpected places—clustered on coats, pinned to scarves, perched on hats, and even decorating beanies.
Fuelled by standout runway moments—like Kristin Scott Thomas’s catwalk debut at Miu Miu A/W24, where a trio of shimmering brooches stole the spotlight—this timeless accessory is being reimagined for a new generation. Designers from Erdem to Tory Burch are embracing the brooch revival, pairing sculptural pins with sheer knits and dramatic outerwear.
In this article, we’ll break down the modern brooch trend, show you how to wear it in surprising, stylish ways, and offer expert styling tips to help you refresh your wardrobe with a piece that’s anything but old-fashioned.
Brooches are making a stylish comeback—and they’re no longer just for grandmothers or royal occasions. From high-fashion runways to everyday street style, this vintage accessory has re-emerged as a contemporary fashion statement. In this guide, we explore the modern ways to wear brooches, from jackets to handbags, offering practical tips and style ideas to help you incorporate this accessory into your wardrobe.
Why Brooches Are Trending Again
Fashion is cyclical, and brooches have come full circle. Once considered outdated, they’ve been spotted recently on the catwalks of Prada, Schiaparelli, and Chanel, not to mention on style influencers and celebrities like Rihanna and Cate Blanchett.
Their resurgence can be linked to:
- A broader interest in personalised, expressive styling
- The quiet luxury trend, which favors timeless, quality pieces
- An increased interest in vintage and sustainable fashion
According to resale platform Vestiaire Collective, searches for vintage brooches rose 35% in the past year, showing strong consumer demand.
6 Fresh, Stylish Ways to Wear a Brooch Today
1. Pin It on Your Blazer or Coat Lapel
The most traditional way to wear a brooch—but with a twist.
- Opt for oversized or abstract shapes for a modern look
- Pair a bold brooch with a neutral blazer for balance
- Cluster two or three smaller brooches together for impact
Style Tip: Wear the brooch slightly above the heart for best visual placement.
2. Add Sparkle to a Plain Dress
Give new life to your classic LBD or midi dress:
- Pin a jeweled brooch at the waist to define your silhouette
- Place it at the neckline in place of a necklace
- Use two identical brooches at the shoulders for vintage glamour
3. Transform Your Handbag or Clutch
Accessories deserve accessories too.
- Clip a brooch to the front flap or strap of your bag
- Rotate different brooches to switch up your bag’s look
- Use one to elevate a canvas tote for casual chic
4. Style It in Your Hair
Yes, really. Brooches can be reimagined as hair accessories:
- Attach one to a velvet ribbon for a makeshift headband
- Secure to a ponytail elastic or bun with bobby pins
- Use brooches in a bridal updo for vintage elegance
5. Dress Up a Scarf or Turtleneck
- Pin it at the knot of a silk scarf for French-girl vibes
- Fasten it on the side of a chunky knit for visual interest
- Layer with a brooch chain or charm necklace
6. Use as a Statement Button or Closure
Brooches can replace traditional fastenings for flair:
- Cinch a wrap dress
- Pin at the top of a button-down shirt
- Hold a shawl or cape in place
FAQs
1. Are brooches in style in 2025?
Yes! Brooches are trending thanks to their versatility and presence on major runways and celebrity red carpets.
2. Can I wear a brooch casually?
Absolutely. Try styling one on a denim jacket, crossbody bag, or chunky knit to make it feel relaxed and modern.
3. What side should I wear a brooch on?
Traditionally, the left side—but modern styling allows for creative placement depending on your outfit.
4. How do I keep a brooch from sagging on delicate fabrics?
Use a support backing or pin it through a thicker layer underneath to hold it in place.
5. Can men wear brooches too?
Yes. Many designers, including Dior and Gucci, have introduced brooches for men. Pin one to a suit, tie, or lapel.
6. Are vintage brooches valuable?
Some vintage brooches, especially signed designer pieces, can be quite valuable. Look for hallmarks from brands like Trifari, Weiss, or Chanel.
Conclusion
The brooch is no longer just a nod to vintage style—it’s a powerful modern accessory that allows for creative, sustainable, and personal fashion choices. Whether you’re dressing up a work blazer or adding personality to a handbag, there’s a brooch for every occasion and every taste.
