The Brooch Revival: History, Symbolism and How to Wear Them with Style

Updated October 2025

Once thought of as a relic of vintage wardrobes, the brooch has staged a stylish comeback. From red carpets to high fashion runways, these miniature works of art are proving they are anything but old-fashioned. Whether you’re pinning one to a coat lapel, fastening a scarf, or adding a statement to a cocktail dress, brooches and lapel pins have become essential tools of modern self-expression. But their story begins long before today’s trend-driven revival.

A Jewel with a Past

Brooches are among the oldest forms of jewellery, their earliest incarnations dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. In ancient Roman and Celtic societies, they weren’t just decoration — they were practical fasteners, known as fibulae, that held garments together while quietly signalling tribal allegiance or social standing.

By the Middle Ages, brooches evolved into symbols of power and faith, adorning cloaks with religious motifs and heraldic crests. The Renaissance elevated them further with gemstones, intricate enamels and miniature works of art that spoke of wealth and sophistication. In Victorian England, brooches became deeply personal, carrying locks of hair or photographs, transforming them into intimate tokens of memory and mourning.

The 20th century pushed brooches firmly into the realm of fashion. The sinuous forms of Art Nouveau celebrated nature, while Art Deco brooches captured the glamour of sharp geometry and sparkling gemstones. By mid-century, brooches became must-have accessories for Hollywood icons, political leaders, and society figures alike.

And today? Designers are once again embracing the brooch — experimenting with bold materials, playful motifs and fresh styling that makes them just as relevant to a contemporary wardrobe as they were centuries ago. You can explore this revival in our timeless brooch and lapel pin collection, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern design.

Designs themselves carry symbolism too. A bee brooch, like those in our Bee Collection of sterling silver jewellery, symbolises community and resilience. Botanical motifs, celebrated in our Herbarium jewellery collection, speak of renewal and growth. And creatures, such as foxes and robins, are captured with charm in our Menagerie animal jewellery collection, which celebrates the character and spirit of the natural world.

Wearing a brooch can be as much about storytelling as it is about style. Each piece is a wearable narrative, whether inherited, gifted, or chosen to reflect a personal symbol.

How to Wear Brooches in 2025

Modern styling has opened up endless possibilities. No longer confined to the lapel of a jacket, brooches are appearing in creative places. A large floral design pinned to the shoulder of a dress creates a couture-inspired silhouette. A cluster of small pins on a beret or felt hat feels playful and artistic. Fastening a silk scarf with a vintage-inspired brooch brings an instant touch of Parisian chic. Even handbags and belts are now fair game for a decorative pin.

The trick is balance. On bold prints and textured fabrics, choose simpler, sculptural shapes that won’t get lost. On minimal, monochrome outfits, a colourful enamel or gemstone brooch becomes a striking focal point. A delicate lapel pin can add subtle polish to daywear, while a larger, more theatrical piece feels perfect for evening drama.

If you’re looking for inspiration, our handmade Christmas brooches bring festive charm, while the romantic flowing lines of our Art Nouveau inspired jewellery provide timeless elegance that pairs beautifully with both vintage and modern styling.

Care and Craftsmanship

Because brooches often involve intricate detailing — from delicate enamel work to fragile clasps — they deserve a little extra care. Always secure the pin properly, especially on finer fabrics, and store them flat so they don’t bend. A gentle polish with a soft cloth will keep metal finishes gleaming, but avoid harsh chemicals if your piece has enamel, pearls, or mixed materials. If you’re lucky enough to own an antique brooch, occasional professional cleaning will help preserve its beauty for generations to come.

The Timeless Appeal

The resurgence of brooches proves one thing: true style is cyclical. What was once considered “old-fashioned” has become one of the most fashionable accessories of the decade. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to blend past and present — carrying history, symbolism, and artistry while still leaving room for personal interpretation.

Whether you’re drawn to vintage heirlooms, handcrafted artisan designs, or playful contemporary pins, a brooch is never just an accessory. It’s a story you choose to wear.

Explore more in our brooch collection in sterling silver and acrylic, and discover how to wear your story with elegance.