The Power of the Brooch: From a Grandmother's Accessory to a Red-carpet Staple (And How to Wear It Without Looking Dated)

Go ahead, raid your grandmother’s jewelry box—we won’t tell. In fact, we encourage it. That little treasure trove of vintage jewelry is now home to one of fashion’s hottest accessories. The humble brooch, once relegated to lapels of sensible cardigans, has staged a spectacular comeback, gracing everything from red-carpet gowns to the edgiest of street style outfits. Forget what you thought you knew; this isn’t your nana’s brooch (well, technically it might be, but you’re going to wear it in a way that would make her say, “My, how daring!”). The fashion world has officially fastened its affection onto this timeless piece, hard-launching it as the must-have accessory for making a personal and punctuation mark on any ensemble.

The proof is everywhere. The 2025 Met Gala red carpet was practically shimmering with them, and luxury houses like Tory Burch and Carolina Herrera featured brooches prominently in their Spring/Summer 2025 collections. But this isn’t just about high fashion; it’s a full-blown movement. Data from leading resale sites shows a significant increase in brooch sales, with a particular surge in interest from a younger demographic. It seems that after years of subdued “quiet luxury,” we’re all craving a little “razzle dazzle,” and the brooch is the perfect way to get it.

Why the Sudden Sparkle? The Brooch Boom Explained

So, what’s behind this glorious return to glamour? It’s a shift away from head-to-toe minimalism. We’re now in an era where personal expression reigns supreme. As one industry expert noted, people are taking their minimalist pieces and layering them with bolder items, and a brooch is the perfect punctuation mark. It’s the ultimate form of personalization. Think of it as the exclamation point to your outfit’s sentence!

There’s also a practical magic to brooches. They’re not just decorative; they’re functional. We’re seeing them used to fasten the sleeves of an avant-garde cardigan, clip a scarf into a chic top, or add a surprising twist to a simple suit lapel. This blend of art and utility is incredibly appealing. As one jeweler beautifully put it, a brooch is a “sculpture that you just pin somewhere.” It doesn’t have to fit a finger or hang from an ear—it’s freeform art for your clothing.

How to Wear a Brooch Without Looking Like a Time Traveler from 1982

Okay, let’s get to the fun part. The key to modern brooch styling is to throw the old rulebook out the window. Here are a few ideas that are guaranteed to turn heads for all the right reasons.

The Schiaparelli Surprise: Take a cue from the surrealists and use mismatched brooches over the buttons on a vest, blazer, or cardigan. This creates an instant high-fashion, custom look. Imagine a classic black blazer with three completely different, sparkly brooches marching down the front. Instant artistry!

The Neckline Narrator: Instead of a necklace, use a larger, statement brooch to adorn the neckline of a simple dress or sweater. Pin it directly to the fabric at the collarbone for a regal, one-of-a-kind pendant effect. This works beautifully with sweater dresses and solid-color tops.

The Hairstyle Highlight: Want to truly channel old-Hollywood glamour? Secure a delicate brooch in your updo or use it to pin back one side of your hair. It’s a breathtakingly elegant touch for a special event.

The Bag Embellishment: Give your favorite handbag a instant makeover. Pin a brooch to the flap or the strap to create a personalized accessory that no one else will have. This is a fantastic way to test the brooch waters if you’re feeling hesitant.

The Modern Man’s Touch: Don’t think brooches are just for women! The red carpet has seen a surge of stylish men like John Krasinski and Matthew McConaughey confidently sporting brooches on their tuxedos and suits. It’s a powerful way to express individuality and sophistication. Explore our collection of men’s jewelry for more masculine-inspired pieces.

Finding Your Perfect Pin: A Guide to Brooch Styles

Not all brooches are created equal. Whether you’re drawn to vintage finds or contemporary designs, there’s a pin for every personality.

Vintage & Estate: For truly unique pieces with a story, the secondary market is your best friend. As experts note, many major houses don’t have large current assortments, so auctions and estate sales are treasure troves. Look for brands like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels for investment-worthy pieces. Our Estate & Vintage Jewelry collection is a great place to start your hunt.

Modern & Minimalist: If you prefer a sleeker look, opt for a brooch with clean lines, perhaps in rhodium or featuring a single, beautiful stone. This is a great way to dip your toe into the trend without going full-on glam.

Bold & Theatrical: Embrace the drama with large, embellished brooches featuring crystals, intricate metalwork, or nature-inspired motifs like flowers or animals. These are the pieces that demand attention and are perfect for making a red-carpet-worthy statement.

Beyond the Brooch: Building Your Statement Jewelry Collection

If the brooch revival has ignited your passion for expressive accessories, you’re in the right place. At Robinson’s Jewelers, we believe jewelry is the exclamation point of your personal style. Why stop at a brooch? Consider these other powerful pieces to build a collection that truly speaks to you:

Cocktail Rings: Like a brooch for your finger, a cocktail ring is a bold, glamorous statement that commands attention.

Statement Earrings: From dramatic drop earrings to modern climber earrings, framing your face with something spectacular is always a good idea.

Cuff Bracelets: A substantial cuff bracelet carries the same sculptural weight as a fabulous brooch, offering a modern and powerful wrist presence.

The brooch has officially been liberated from the jewelry box of the past. It’s a versatile, expressive, and undeniably chic accessory that breathes new life into your existing wardrobe. So, whether you unearth a family heirloom or find a modern masterpiece that calls your name, don’t be afraid to pin your style to your sleeve—or your collar, your hat, or your bag. The power is literally in your hands.