Brooches

With a new year upon us, it’s fun to wonder what will become the defining trends of 2015. We can’t know until it’s over, but we can make predictions. Lately I’ve been noticing an old accessory back on the scene. The classic bling of the brooch just may be back, ladies. Here are a few ideas on how to use a brooch to spice up your favorite wardrobe staples.

Tip #1: Brooches aren’t just for your breast-pocket.

Traditionally worn off to one side, just above the bust line, give it some action elsewhere. Try it in the center, over your top button on a collared shirt. Or secure a scarf by pinning it in place on your shoulder. Maybe it could be the perfect answer to an unfortunate blemish on your favorite clutch or dress. The brooch knows no boundaries, put it where you see fit!

Tip #2: Mixing high and low, old and new.

This piece of advice can be considered at all times, and across the board when styling all things. Pairing vintage, heirloom and second-hand pieces produces a one-of-a-kind, signature look. Maybe you’ve got a bag of old costume jewels from your Great Grandma Peterson and among the oddities are some perfectly gaudy brooches. Give them the spotlight paired with colorful silhouettes and trainers, your tomboy blazer and jeans, or tonal flowing layers from head to toe!

Tip #3: Repurpose, Reset and Restyle.

These three R’s are perfect for inspiring new ways to wear pretty much anything. Repurpose a cluster of brooches by pinning them to a chain, creating a statement necklace. Or try securing them to metal stir sticks for a decorative brooch bouquet. You can also Reset the pin closure by replacing it with a bobby pin for a pretty hair brooch. (This is easily done with one of those circle sponges typically used for makeup applications. Simply slice it in half like a hamburger bun, size it to the backing of your brooch and sandwich the scary needle in between. Hot glue it together and then glue your sturdy bobby pin over the top!) Lastly, Restyle. Get creative by pinning one or a few similar brooches to ankle straps on a pair of shoes, or pin over buttons on a sweater or shirt, or try it on your hat!

What innovative way will you wear a brooch?

Pineapple Net Brooch: MalvineLV
Frida Kahlo Brooch: MalvineLV
Geometric Tiger Brooch: SketchInc