Brooches Are Back — Here’s How to Wear Them Without Looking Old-Fashioned
Intro: “Brooches Are for Grandmas”… and Other Lies We Need to Stop Believing
Let’s be honest: brooches used to feel ancient. They reminded us of dusty jewelry boxes, stiff family portraits, and yes — grandma’s tweed blazers. But guess what? TikTokers are pinning them to bucket hats. Fashion influencers are stacking them on leather jackets. Even Vogue called them 2024’s “quiet luxury staple.”
The problem? Most of us still don’t know how to wear a brooch without looking like we raided a vintage store. (Which is cool… if that’s your vibe.) But if you want to nail the modern look, here’s how to do it — including the age-old question: what side do you wear a brooch on?
1. Why Brooches Are Everywhere Again
Brooches aren’t just “pretty pins” anymore. They’re personal storytelling:
- Celebrities like Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet use them to add edge to red carpet looks.
- TikTok’s #BroochHacks hashtad has 12M+ views (think: turning brooches into hair clips or bag charms).
- Sustainability wins: A well-made brooch elevates a basic outfit for years, unlike fast-fashion jewelry.
But first: Let’s fix the basics.
Before you go wild, learn the traditional rule: Brooches are usually worn on the left side — a nod to historical etiquette (think knights wearing crests over their hearts). For formal events or classic styles, this still works.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a no-fluff guide to brooch placement, including when to break the “left side rule.”
2. 3 Modern Rules to Break (Yes, Even the “Left Side” Thing)
Rule #1: “Brooches only go on lapels.”
Break it: Pin one on a beanie, the strap of your crossbody bag, or even your jeans’ pocket.
Rule #2: “Stick to one brooch at a time.”
Break it: Cluster tiny floral brooches on a denim jacket or line three down a coat’s placket.
Rule #3: “Left side only.”
Break it: If your outfit has a statement sleeve or asymmetric detail, pin the brooch on the right side to balance it.
Pro Tip: Heavy brooch? Secure it properly with a safety pin hack to avoid snagging fabrics.
3. Unexpected Places to Pin Your Brooch (That Aren’t Your Lapel)
- On a Scarf: Fold a silk scarf into a necktie and add a brooch at the knot.
- In Your Hair: Replace a hair clip with a dainty brooch (works best on updos or braids).
- On Shoes: Jazz up plain loafers with a small, flat-backed brooch.
- On a Belt: Center a bold brooch over your waist for a vintage-meets-streetwear vibe.
Still nervous? This tutorial shows how to style brooches without damaging your clothes.
Final Takeaway: Brooches Aren’t “Outdated” — You’re Just Wearing Them Wrong
The secret to modern brooch style? Forget the rules. Focus on the story.
- Got a quirky enamel pin? Pair it with a minimalist outfit to let it shine.
- Inherited an heirloom brooch? Wear it your way — on a hat, bag, or right collarbone.
And if you’re still stuck on what side to wear a brooch, remember: Tradition says left, but confidence says anywhere.
Ready to Try?
Start with Avelia’s Ultimate Brooch Styling Guide — we’ll teach you the basics, the hacks, and how to make every piece uniquely yours.
