The Brooch is Back: A Short History of Fashion’s Most Enduring Accessory
Suddenly, it seems, the brooch is everywhere. Pinned to the lapels of celebrities on the red carpet, clustered on denim jackets, and adding a point of interest to a simple sweater. But this versatile accessory is no fleeting trend; it is one of the most ancient and enduring forms of jewellery in history. From functional fastener to powerful status symbol, the brooch has done it all.
Here is a short history.
The Ancient Origins: A Functional Fastener
The earliest brooches (known as fibulae) date back to the Bronze Age. They were simple, functional pins made of metal, used by Romans, Greeks, and Vikings to fasten cloaks and tunics. They were a basic necessity of dress.
The Victorian Era: Sentiment and Symbolism
It was in the 19th century that the brooch truly came into its own as a decorative and symbolic object. Queen Victoria popularised the wearing of jewellery, and brooches became a way to express sentiment.
Mourning Brooches: After the death of her husband, Prince Albert, Queen Victoria popularised mourning jewellery. Brooches made from black materials like jet or vulcanite, often containing a lock of a loved one’s hair, became commonplace.
Cameo Brooches: Carved with portraits, these became popular souvenirs from the “Grand Tour” of Europe.
Read this article from The Jewellery Editor about the history of brooches.
The 20th Century: Art Deco and Costume Jewellery
The 20th century saw the brooch explode in popularity and style.
Art Deco (1920s-30s): Brooches became geometric, bold, and abstract, featuring sharp lines and precious gems. They were pinned to the newly fashionable, dropped-waist dresses of the Flapper era.
The Rise of Costume Jewellery (1950s): Designers like Coco Chanel made costume jewellery chic. It was no longer about displaying wealth, but about expressing personal style. Brooches became bigger, bolder, and more playful.
The Brooch Today: A Modern Renaissance
So why is the brooch having such a major comeback?
A Mark of Individuality: In a world of minimalist trends, a brooch is a powerful way to express personality.
Versatility: It can be worn in so many ways, on a lapel, at the collar of a shirt, on a hat, a bag, or even in the hair.
The “Grandmillennial” Trend: A love for nostalgic, traditional style has brought classic pieces like the brooch back into the spotlight.
British Vogue illustrates the trendy brooches of 2026 in this article.
How to Wear a Brooch in 2026
Cluster them: Wear a group of two or three brooches together on the lapel of a denim or leather jacket.
At the collar: Pin a single, statement brooch at the top button of a crisp, collared shirt.
On a waistband: Add an unexpected point of interest by pinning a brooch to the waistband of a high-waisted skirt or trousers.
The In Style magazine shows 8 ways to wear brooches this spring.
From ancient fastener to modern style statement, the brooch has proven its timeless appeal. It is a small object with a huge history, and a wonderful way to add a touch of personality and story to any outfit.