The Art of the Brooch: Why This Vintage Staple is 2026’s Hottest Trend
Vintage brooches are having a moment, and in 2026 they are no longer a quiet accessory. Once reserved for coats or special occasions, brooches are now being styled boldly and worn as statement pieces across everyday wardrobes.
This renewed interest reflects a broader shift in fashion. People are moving away from fast, disposable trends and towards pieces that feel personal, lasting, and expressive. Vintage brooches sit perfectly at the intersection of style, sustainability, and individuality.
Why Are Brooches Trending in 2026?
The brooch trend in 2026 is driven by self-expression. Fashion is becoming less about following rules and more about telling a story. Brooches allow wearers to do exactly that.
A single vintage brooch can transform an outfit. It adds character without effort and allows you to make something simple feel intentional.
Fashion publications have noted this shift, with brooches appearing regularly on runways and red carpets. According to Vogue, accessories with personality are defining modern style as people seek pieces that feel meaningful rather than mass-produced.
A Brief History of the Brooch
Brooches have been worn for centuries, originally serving a practical purpose as garment fasteners. Over time, they evolved into decorative objects that reflected the craftsmanship and design trends of their era.
Victorian brooches often featured sentimental motifs and intricate metalwork. Mid-century costume jewellery embraced bolder shapes, playful materials, and expressive colour. These designs are now inspiring modern styling once again.
Each vintage brooch carries a sense of history, which is part of what makes them so appealing today.
How Celebrities Are Wearing Brooches Now
Modern brooch styling is relaxed and creative. Celebrities and stylists are moving away from traditional placement and experimenting with new ways to wear them.
In a definitive ranking, The Cut charts the brooches that glimmered across the lapels and tailoring of Hollywood’s leading men at the Golden Globes, reviving red-carpet suiting with a touch of old-world glamour.
Brooches are pinned to oversized blazers, clustered together for impact, worn on knitwear instead of necklaces, or used to secure scarves and dresses. This approach makes brooches feel contemporary rather than formal.
How to Wear a Vintage Brooch in 2026
If you are wondering how to wear a brooch without it feeling dated, contrast is key.
Try pairing a vintage brooch with clean lines and modern silhouettes. A simple knit, crisp shirt, or structured blazer allows the brooch to stand out without overwhelming your look.
You might consider:
Pinning a brooch high on a jumper instead of wearing a necklace
Adding one to the lapel of a relaxed blazer or coat
Using a brooch to gather fabric at the waist of a dress
Styling multiple smaller brooches together for a layered effect
There are no rules. The beauty of brooches lies in experimentation.
Why Vintage Brooches Feel Right Now
Vintage brooches align naturally with more thoughtful shopping habits. Choosing vintage means reusing something beautiful rather than buying new. It is a sustainable choice that does not compromise on style.
At Bonita Eloise, brooches in the Adorn Collection are selected for their craftsmanship, charm, and individuality. These are pieces designed to be worn often and treasured for years. Brooches are also available on our Etsy shop, bringing a lasting touch of beauty to your wardrobe.
A brooch may be small, but it has the power to say a great deal about how you choose to dress and live.