The brooch reset: How street style is making vintage pins cool again

For years, brooches were associated with formal dressing, special occasions and jewellery boxes filled with pieces reserved for important events only. 

But the once-forgotten accessory is having a major fashion comeback and proving that this vintage piece still has plenty of style left in it.

Our grandmothers and grandfathers may have considered brooches a wardrobe staple, but after years of taking a backseat and being replaced by modern accessories, brooches are making their way back into the fashion spotlight. 

From runways to street style, brooches are being styled in unexpected ways, turning the nostalgic jewellery piece into a modern-day fashion statement.

Here are six ways you can bring this vintage accessory back into your wardrobe:

Let your handbag wear the jewellery

Adding a brooch to your bag gives it the upgrade it needs without the commitment of permanently changing its appearance. You can switch up your brooches depending on the colour, style or occasion, making it an easy way to refresh a bag you already own.

Try a statement brooch on a simple tote or handbag, or layer several smaller designs together for a fun, personalised look. 

Just make sure the material of the bag can handle the pin without causing damage.

Give your denim a dose of personality

Who says brooches have to be reserved for dressier pieces? Pinning one onto your jeans can give a basic pair of denim a playful and unexpected twist. 

Place a brooch near the pocket, along the waistband or even at the bottom of your jeans for a more stylish look.

For something bolder, try clustering several brooches together. Vintage-inspired pieces, colourful designs or quirky shapes can work particularly well with oversized jeans.

Turn a basic shirt into a statement

A simple shirt can become much more interesting when you add a brooch. Pin one near the collar for a polished look or place different types of brooches along the button placket to create a statement detail.

You can also use a brooch to bring attention to a bow, tie or gathered section of the shirt. 

If you are wearing a plain white or neutral shirt, this is the perfect opportunity to experiment with colourful or eye-catching designs.

Put a pin in your hat

Take your favourite hat from basic to statement-making by adding a brooch. Pin one on a bucket hat, baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat to give it a personalised touch.

For a minimalist look, stick to one standout brooch. If you want something more playful, mix different shapes, textures and sizes. 

However, be mindful of the hat’s material and avoid placing heavy brooches on delicate fabrics.

Your hair deserves a little sparkle too

Brooches can even become an unexpected hair accessory. Instead of wearing them traditionally, use small and lightweight brooches to decorate a bun, ponytail or a braid.

You can also attach a brooch to a ribbon or bow and wear it in your hair for a more romantic look. 

This is a fun way to bring the vintage accessory into your beauty routine while adding a little sparkle and personality to a simple hairstyle.

Give your blazer a little brooch moment

A blazer is one of the easiest places to start when styling a brooch. Pin it onto the lapel of a blazer to instantly elevate a simple office or casual look. 

You can also play around with placement by wearing the brooch slightly higher on the lapel or wearing two or more smaller brooches together for a more fashion-forward look.

kamogelo.makhura@nationalmg.co.za

THE NATIONAL