From grandma’s jewellery box to instant outfit upgrade: It’s time to rethink the brooch

Got a wardrobe full of clothes, but struggle to pull outfits together? It might be time to take a cue from our grandmas’ generation and embrace a simple, effective yet seriously underrated styling device.

We are, of course, talking about brooches. In the past few years, the accessory has been popping up everywhere, styled in ways that go far beyond the classic lapel pin. (Don’t tune out, stay with me − it’s worth it, I promise.)

Personal stylist Shellie Robinson believes the rise of the brooch reflects us collectively craving “versatility, personality and ease” in how we get dressed.

“We’re seeing people shop more intentionally and look for ways to make the clothes they already own work harder, rather than constantly buying something new,” the Styled by Shellie founder tells nine.com.au.

“I also think some people have become a little tired of outfits feeling too minimal, but they’re not necessarily looking to go all in and over the top. A brooch is a simple way to add personality and interest without having to completely reinvent your wardrobe.”

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Robinson doesn’t see brooches as simply another fashion trend, but rather a styling tool that’s been rediscovered and “having a well-deserved moment”.

Think beyond the lapel

Adding a brooch to your outfit can be a beautiful finishing touch, Robinson says, but it can also be used to change the entire mood and silhouette of your look.

“It can take a look from casual to elevated, corporate to more relaxed and playful, or even help turn an oversized silhouette into something more tailored and considered,” she said.

“Modern styling inspiration has shown us that the lapel is really just the beginning.

“You can use a brooch to fasten a blazer in unexpected ways, cinch in the waist, create shape in an oversized knit, style silk scarves, elevate a basic dress by placing some of the on the shoulder and/or the hip, decorate a hat, or even place over plain buttons to completely change the look of a garment.”

If you’re on the hunt for visual inspo, look no further than Instagram and TikTok – plenty of style creators sharing clever ways to use the accessory.

Among them is Juliet Cuerden (@mystylistjulie), an Aussie stylist and founder of luxury brooch brand Broochella, who posts brooch styling ideas daily.

Robinson says one of the best tricks she’s seen is using brooches to fasten blazers differently.

“Whether that’s closing the lapels over completely or pinning one side at the waist, it instantly creates a more interesting silhouette,” she said.

“I also love the idea of using them to create shape in oversized knitwear during winter, styling multiple brooches together on a dress, attaching them to hats, securing silk scarves or layering several on a blazer for a more fashion-forward look.”

You could also pop a brooch on the cuff or sleeve of your jacket, or attach multiple different brooches over the buttons of a vest top for an eye-catching upgrade.

The brooch for a new generation

Like many of us, Robinson has fond memories of brooches as a feature of her grandmother’s wardrobe, having long admired her collection.

“She never left the house without wearing one. Whether she was dressed in simple pants and a top or elegant evening wear, there was always a brooch pinned to her outfit,” she said.

“She wasn’t a big jewellery wearer, so her brooches became her signature way of adding personality and class to what she wore. It’s exciting to see a new generation wearing them in fresh and modern ways.”

The stylist says viewing brooches as dated, or limited to being worn in traditional ways, is a huge mistake that can hold you back from “almost endless” styling possibilities.

“If you do love the classic lapel placement, choose a design that feels a little more modern and complements your outfit, or have some fun by layering multiple brooches in different sizes and finishes.”

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Getting started

Like the thought of embracing the brooch, but not sure how to go about it? Robinson suggests looking for one that “speaks to your own personal style and lifestyle”.

“Whether your style is minimal, bold, colourful, monochrome, vintage-inspired or contemporary, there’s a brooch that will feel like an extension of your personal style,” she said.

If you’re after an affordable entry point, have a sticky-beak through your local op shop – chances are you’ll find a striking brooch with a friendly price tag.

“Most importantly, don’t overthink it,” Robinson adds.

“A brooch is a simple way to experiment with styling, add personality to an outfit and make pieces you already own feel fresh again. Sometimes it’s the smallest styling detail that has the biggest impact.”