It's been ages - okay, decades - since brooches were an It-accessory, but guess what? They're making a dazzling comeback.
Designers are getting creative, putting a modern twist on this timeless piece, and suddenly, brooches are the talk of the town again.
While the brooch was once reserved for your granny’s jewellery stash and the lavish brooch collection of the British Royals (Queen Elizabeth II was rumoured to have owned nearly 100) fashion is a merry-go-round: what's old always becomes new again.
“The brooch was always underrated but now everyone loves a brooch,” explains vintage jewellery brand founder and creative director Susan Caplan: “Brooches sort of equate to propriety and polish, So I think when people see them on these TV dramas like Bridgerton and The Crown I think people just want to emulate that and wear them.”
© Getty ImagesBrooches are the ultimate comeback kid. These pieces started as mere clothing fasteners but quickly turned into the go-to for making a style statement in the 1500s. Fast forward to SS25, and brooches are yet again stealing the spotlight on runways, red carpets and with the street style set.
“Brooches are definitely making a comeback, we could see them all over the catwalk. Brands like Armani, Tory Burch, Carolina Herrera all featured them in their catwalk shows,” says renowned stylist Harriet Nicholson: “I think people are really leaning away from quiet luxury and into maximalism again which is quite refreshing.”
Take it from the top houses - brooches are the epitome of timeless glamour. Last year, Chanel brought out the big guns with camellias that seemed to bloom right off the outfits. Erdem's showstopper was a glitzy gold dragonfly that looked like it was about to take flight. Meanwhile Schiaparelli’s Daniel Roseberry has been a consistent champion of the brooch ever since joining the surrealist maison. Loewe's anagrammed option has become a staple among London's style set.
© Getty Images“Lots of people have brooches in old jewellery boxes handed down from their grandmas,” explains Harriet, “You can buy them vintage. So that also plays into our desire for re-wearing things.”
This past fashion month, the pavements were a runway of their own with fashionistas getting inventive with brooches - pinning them on everything from blazers to scarves. Making it crystal clear: brooches aren't just for the bottom of our jewellery boxes anymore.
How do you wear a brooch?
According to Harriet, the brooch is the ultimate accessory: “You can jazz up any boring outfit instantly and take it from day to night.” Clearly the brooch is endlessly versatile, “You can put them on a handbag, you can wear it in your hair carefully,” says Susan Caplan. It also can be worn as a pendant: “You just get a chain and you put it through the pin part.”
As for wearing brooches with clothing, the opportunities are equally abundant Susan tells us: “You don't just need to wear it where everyone used to wear it, on a lapel. If you wear it much higher, it really can look fabulous. I style it on the shoulder.” For styling it for everyday the jeweller suggests fasting it to “the top part of the polo neck, It looks fabulous just sitting at the side.”
Best brooches for 2026:
1/8
Gold-Tone and Cubic Zirconia Brooch
Gucci
Party-ready glam comes to the forefront with Gucci's sparkling brooch. Dotted with iridescent crystals and boasting the house's iconic GG design, this modern jewel is an enchanting ode to one of fashion's most innovative luxury houses.
2/8
Silver-Tone Brooch
Jil Sander
Jil Sander’s sculptural brooch distils minimalist elegance into a silver-tone leaf silhouette. With subtly hammered texture and clean contours, it lends quiet drama to tailoring or knitwear. A modern, mesmerising take on traditional brooch design.
3/8
Equestrian Dream Brooch
YSSO
YSSO’s enchanting collections pay homage to Greek roots. This gem, meticulously crafted in Athens from gold-plated metal, depicts the legendary Hippoi Areioi - one of Greek mythology’s four immortal horses. Elevate your everyday coat by pinning this exquisite symbol of heritage and strength on its lapel.
4/8
Anagram Brooch
Loewe
This Loewe brooch has got a luxe yet understated vibe that’s totally reaching cult-status. The timelessness of the glowing gold means you match it with absolutely anything.
5/8
STARRY NIGHT PEARL BROOCH SILVER - latelita Starry Night Brooch
Latelita
This cosmic brooch is like wearing a little piece of the universe. Crafted from sterling silver with stars that twinkle the additional pearls just add to its whimsical vibe.
6/8
1990s Vintage D'Orlan Dog Brooch
Susan Caplan
The perfect pick for the animal lover in your life, this vintage D'Orlan pup brooch is charm personified. Pin to your lapel on your favourite scrunchie for a Gen Z twist on the playful trend.
7/8
Crystal Bow Pearl Droplet Brooch
Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait's whimsical yet sculptural bow piece is wearable work of art - ideal for adding a touch of girlish glam to any after-hour ensemble. Pearl accents make for a baroque touch, serving up drama and dynamism in equal measure.
8/8
Crystal Pomegranate Brooch
Chanel Joan Elkayam
Representing abundance, and prosperity, the pomegranate is a thoughtful motif to gift your nearest and dearest. We love this playful beaded brooch - a celebration of nature in all its jewel-toned glory.
How we chose:
Versatility: We carefully selected brooches that reflect a wide range of themes and occasions. Our aim was to find pieces that not only stand out but also complement various events and preferences.
Functions: Recognising that your day might take you from one event to another, we chose brooches that marry beauty with practicality. These picks are not just about making a statement; they're designed for versatility and ease of wear, allowing you to look your best in any situation.
Something for Everyone: Understanding that fashion is deeply personal, my curated selection spans across a spectrum of designs. From the intricately delicate to the boldly modern, there's a brooch here for every taste, ensuring you'll find the perfect piece to enhance your unique style.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
