For years, brooches were considered more heirloom than everyday accessory—something you’d inherit from your grandmother rather than buy for yourself. But as with so many trends that fell out of favor, they’ve reemerged as one of the most powerful styling tools in 2025. What used to be reserved for a coat collar or special occasion is now being spotted on everything from simple tops to canvas totes, proving that brooches are the fastest way to make even the most basic pieces feel styled.
Unlike other accessories, brooches don’t just add to a look—they transform it. A plain cardigan looks instantly directional with a sculptural silver pin at the shoulder. A structured blazer becomes cooler when you cluster two or three brooches at the lapel. Even a minimal slip dress takes on a new identity with the right vintage piece.
I’ve been wearing Jenny Bird’s (sadly, sold-out) Lydia Brooch every chance I get, from pinning it onto a classic white tee to fastening a sweater around my shoulders. On days when I feel like I have nothing to wear, I’m always struck by how much presence such a small detail can add. And it doesn’t have to be a bold, sculptural pin to make a difference—sometimes even repurposing a single earring can turn a scarf into a top or elevate a simple tank into something evening-ready.
Ahead, the exact ways I’ve been styling the brooch trend to make even the most worn-in basics feel new again.
How I’m Styling the Brooch Trend
1. With a cardigan
Tying a cardigan around your shoulders is an age-old trick, but fastening it with a brooch? That’s a showstopper. It looks complicated, but it couldn’t be easier—and the payoff is major. While you could just drape your knit as usual, the brooch adds dimension in the most low-lift way. Try it over a crisp white button-down or layered on top of a wool coat as the temperatures drop.
2. With a vest
Sometimes a vest can lean a little too traditional, especially when styled over basics or worn on its own. To liven things up, I like to add a brooch as a finishing touch. It breaks up the clean lines, adds dimension, and instantly makes the look feel more styled. Think of it as a subtle way to bring personality to a piece that might otherwise feel expected.
3. With double sweaters
There are a couple of unexpected twists to this look: first, I layered two sweaters together, and second, I clipped them at the side with a brooch. While you could easily recreate the outfit with just one cardigan over a T-shirt, I love how the extra elements add depth and make it feel more intentional, with the brooch acting as the anchor that ties it all together. It’s the kind of detail that feels effortless yet gives the impression you spent far more time styling than you did.
4. With a tee
As soon as I tried this, I thought, why haven’t I done this sooner? A simple brooch instantly gave my white tee new life and sparked a dozen fresh styling ideas. What I love most is that it doesn’t overcomplicate things—it’s still just a tee, but now it looks styled with intention. The best part? It works year-round: in the summer, pin it to a tee with denim cutoffs for a subtle upgrade, and in the fall, layer it under a blazer or trench for an easy, polished finish. It’s proof that the most basic piece in your closet can feel exciting again with the smallest adjustment.
More Ways to Wear a Brooch
1. With a blazer
A blazer is a wardrobe classic, but sometimes it begs for a little update. Adding a brooch (or two) to the lapel is an easy way to make it feel fresh and current. Try a brocade style that nods to vintage glamour, or stack a few smaller pins together for a look that feels more playful and fashion-forward.
2. With a turtleneck
While I love a good chunky turtleneck, there are times when it can feel a little too bulky. To give it some shape, gather the knit to one side and cinch it with a small brooch—or even a spare earring in a pinch. It’s an easy way to make a cozy piece feel more flattering without losing any of the comfort.
3. With a jacket
Give your old jacket a fresh spin by pinning a brooch to the chest. It’s a subtle styling tweak that instantly makes a familiar piece feel new again—and the kind of finishing touch that transforms a basic layer into a complete outfit.
4. With a blouse
Finding a good blouse is hard enough as it is, but before you decide on a new one, consider styling with a brooch. Take an old favorite and rethink it by pinning the extra fabric into a new shape. A brooch at the side or near the neckline can shift the drape entirely, giving the blouse a more modern silhouette and making it feel like a fresh piece.
5. On a bag
A note from our fashion editor, Jessica Welsh: I haven’t been able to stop thinking about this photo since I saw it. In fact, it inspired me to snag a secondhand Longchamp on eBay. I love the idea of collecting brooches from vintage stores or your travels, and it’s the perfect way to try out the brooch trend in a less intimidating way.
Shop the Brooch Trend
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.
