Most people think brooches are a thing of the past. These fun little baubles might have a retro stigma, but they’ve actually been making quite a comeback over the past few years. However, many people are still left wondering how to wear brooch jewelry. Well, here’s the deal. Brooches are fun because there isn’t one specific way to wear them! You might be thinking: “But what if I put it in the wrong place? Won’t it look stupid if it’s not at the right angle or hanging incorrectly?” If you’re thinking this way, we have one simple answer for you: confidence. There are no rules or guidelines for wearing brooch jewelry; you can be as creative as you want! Your personal style is all about what YOU like. If you think that floral brooch looks cool placed right on your shoulder, then rock it. Who cares what anyone else thinks? By being confident in yourself and your sense of style, no one will dare question your fashion choices. And who knows, maybe you’ll even inspire someone else to wear a brooch!

Accessorizing with Brooch Jewelry

Of course, you can always go for the traditional brooch and blazer combination. Contrary to what some may believe, the classics are never outdated. Blazer pins are a great way to add some glitz and glam to your outfit while still pulling off a sophisticated look. But if you’re looking for more fun and modern ways to wear a brooch, we’ve got you covered. If you’ve never been a fan of brooch jewelry, give it a try! You might be surprised by what a big effect this small accessory can have on your style.

Take a Look at 5 Modern Ways to Wear a Brooch

Wear Brooch Jewelry Around Your Neckline

The traditional brooch placement is usually on the lapel of a coat or blazer. But have you ever thought about moving it over just a few inches? This small change can actually make a very dramatic difference and change the look of your entire outfit. Your neckline is the center of attention, so why not give people even more of a reason to stare. Shirts with plunging necklines or V-necks typically look best, but this technique really works with any style shirt. You also have a bit more room for creativity to decide where you think the brooch looks best. Top left, bottom right, on the collar, smack dab in the middle…the choice is all yours.

Decorate the Pocket of Jeans with Brooch Jewelry

Looking for a simple and unique way to dress up any casual outfit? Pin a brooch to the pocket of your jeans! The juxtaposition of fine jewelry on casual material is seriously eye-catching. Combine a casual white shirt and a pair of jeans with a vibrant brooch to let it be the focal point of your outfit. Look how this Art Nouveau brooch pops! You can’t say your eyes weren’t drawn straight to it.

Pin Brooch Jewelry to the Back of a Dress

Most jewelry is worn in the front so it can be seen. But we’re looking for ways to stray away from traditional style, remember? And this technique does just that. Pinning brooch jewelry to the back of your dress is a creative, yet unexpected, way to add some more glam to your look. You also have a few options to play with. For a dress with a deep plunge, wear a brooch right in the center. For a dress with a collar, wear your hair up and secure a brooch near the nape of your neck, ‘cause both ways scream glamour! People will be mesmerized by your outfit as they watch you walk away.

Convert a Brooch to a Pendant

If you really don’t think brooches are your thing, don’t rule them out just yet. Say a brooch catches your eye, but you’re hesitant because you don’t like the look of pinning it onto your clothing. That doesn’t mean you can’t accessorize with it! Rather than pinning the brooch anywhere on your clothes, simply convert the brooch to a pendant! All you need to do is add a chain to the brooch that you adore most. Make sure the brooch’s pin is clasped shut (so it doesn’t poke you!) and loop the chain through it. Now, you have a dazzling pendant that can still be converted back to a brooch if you ever so desire. Since chokers are becoming so popular again, another idea is to wrap the chain closely around your neck and secure the brooch in a creative way.

Wear Brooch Jewelry in Your Hair

Not only do brooches make wonderful clothing accessories, they also look fantastic in your hair! A brooch as a hair pin?! …who would have thought?! After styling your hair, all you need to do is choose your favorite brooch and carefully attach it to your hair. This works well with a cute bun, a French braid, a sleek ponytail, or even having your hair down. Big brooches tend to work best so they don’t get swallowed up by your hairdo. Feel free to use some bobby pins to help keep the brooch in place, but do not use hairspray as this can have a negative effect on your jewelry. Now remember, this is not how brooches were designed to be worn so it may take a little bit of work, but the finishing look will totally be worth it. Fashion is cyclical; the best trends always find their way back into our wardrobes. Don’t be afraid to get creative when accessorizing with brooches. Step outside of your comfort zone and try different techniques for brooch placement. Once you’ve figured out your favorite ways to wear a brooch they’re sure to become a staple in your jewelry box.

Where to Buy Brooches in San Diego

If you missed your chance to dig through all of your mom’s or grandmother’s brooch jewelry, you’re still in luck. Here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers we have a wide assortment of beautiful and unique brooches. Our collection of new, vintage, and antique brooches won’t have you wondering how to wear a brooch, you’ll be wondering why you never thought of this before!