How often do you find yourself reaching for your brooch or pin? If it’s been a while, it’s time to give this age-old accessory some love. Style ruts happen to the best of us, but a fresh perspective might be all you need. Brooches can be pinned onto nearly anything you own—not just jackets and blazers but also hats, scarves, shoes and more. Don’t confine your brooch to holiday events or occasional parties. Find out how to style that brooch collecting dust in your jewelry box with tasteful new techniques.
The terms “brooch” and “pin” are often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct differences.
What Is a Brooch?
A brooch is a decorative piece of jewelry worn on garments to fasten and embellish. Traditionally, it consists of a decorative front piece and a hinged pin mechanism at the back, allowing it to be securely attached to fabric. While certainly appreciated for their aesthetic beauty, brooches also carry cultural and historical significance. Brooches date back thousands of years, with origins traced to ancient civilizations where they served practical purposes—binding clothing and signifying status. As fashion evolved, so did the brooch, morphing into a symbol of individuality and artistry during the Renaissance. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the modern brooch is an unexpected accessory, suitable for both formal and casual occasions alike.
What Is a Pin?
A pin is generally smaller and simpler than a brooch. While pins can also be decorative, they mainly have a functional basis: to affix items together. Pins, while often seen as more modern counterparts, share a rich background. The lapel pin, for instance, became popular in the 19th century, used as a sign of allegiance, pride or membership in various organizations. Today, it’s commonly spotted on wedding parties, business professionals and celebrities.
In essence, while all brooches can be considered pins, not all pins are brooches; brooches are more ornate and fashion-forward, while pins tend to be more utilitarian. Nevertheless, both are experiencing a revival, as designers reinterpret them with contemporary features. Themes like white gold and nature motifs are guiding their designs, appealing to the artistic minds of consumers.
How to Wear a Brooch
In a generation that always craves more, incorporating a brooch into your outfit can accomplish just that. Forget the notion that brooches are just for formal attire; their versatility extends far beyond. Owning multiple brooches that reflect seasonal changes makes you appear fresh and relevant. Let your attitude take over so that the piece pops even more. We’ve become obsessed with the idea of pairing multiple smaller brooches together. While a classic choice is to pin a brooch on the lapel of a blazer or tailored coat, have you ever considered placing one on a plain handbag or hat? It won’t do much for you at home, but out and about, it’s serving. Men’s brooches are diversifying fashion, as seen in the 2024 awards season, with Teo Yoo, Dwayne Wade and Cillian Murphy all displaying their own type of brooch pin.
How to Wear a Lapel Pin
These days, menswear typically includes some sort of jacket adornment. Traditionally, men’s lapel pins are worn on the left lapel, just above the pocket with the pin facing upward. The styling of the pin tends to be more refined than a brooch, though it can easily be dressed down. Browse limited-edition models from designer Deakin and Francis today.
Hopefully the next time you visit your jewelry box, you’ll give that brooch or pin a second glance. They truly do it all. Shop designer brooches and pins online at Borsheims.com or in store today.
