Vintage brooches: the star accessory of 2026 to enhance your outfits
In 2026, this particular piece of jewelry is poised to reclaim its place at the heart of fashion: the vintage brooch .
Long associated with our grandmothers' elegant jackets and family heirlooms carefully stored in velvet boxes, the brooch is making a comeback today as a strong, modern, and bold accessory. Runways are reinventing it, designers are revisiting it, style enthusiasts are collecting it—and fashion confirms it: the brooch will be one of the trendiest pieces of jewelry in 2026 .
In this article, I explain why this return was inevitable and how you too can adopt this jewel steeped in history.
The short history of the brooch: from practical to poetic
Before being decorative, the brooch was practical.
In ancient times, fibulae were used to fasten fabrics. In the Middle Ages, they often indicated social rank. In the 19th century, they became a veritable visual language: cameos, portraits, symbols, secret love messages.
Then came the 50s–70s with their ornate, floral, golden brooches; the 80s and their oversized, brilliant, expressive “statement” jewelry.
Throughout each era, the brooch tells a story: a style, a status, a mood.
And perhaps that's why it's making a comeback today. Because it has a soul , the kind you don't find in standardized jewelry.
Why is the brooch making a comeback in 2026?
A trend confirmed by the catwalks and the fashion press
For the past two seasons, the fashion shows have been setting the tone:
• an accumulation of brooches at Chanel,
• sculptural pieces by Schiaparelli,
• reworked metal pins at Prada,
• Futuristic or baroque reinterpretations among emerging brands.
The fashion press talks about a return of maximalism , a desire for jewelry that is seen, that expresses something, that personalizes an outfit.
2026 also marks the desire to:
✔ to bring retro pieces back into fashion,
✔ to promote craftsmanship and sustainability,
✔ Accessorize intelligently rather than consume excessively.
The result: the brooch once again becomes a creative, versatile and stylish accessory, capable of transforming a simple blazer into a bold look.
Why choose a vintage brooch over a new one?
The big difference is the soul.
A vintage brooch has lived, was designed in a time when people took the time to make things, when materials had weight, when details were carefully crafted.
✔ Unparalleled quality
Thick gold-plated metal, set (not glued) rhinestones, genuine enamel, sculpted shapes…
Vintage brooches often have a quality that is no longer found in today's mass-produced jewelry.
✔ A unique piece
No series of thousands of copies.
Each vintage brooch is a fragment of the past that no one else possesses.
✔ True durability
This jewel has already survived 30, 50, sometimes 70 years.
It will go through 30 more — and without losing its charm.
✔ Excellent value for money
Vintage brooches, even the prettiest ones, are often much more affordable than new costume jewelry from large retailers.
✔ A future collectible
Some pieces — from the 50s, 60s, designer brooches, Swiss creations — are already highly sought after.
How to wear a vintage brooch in 2026?
The new stylish approaches
The days when brooches were worn only on the lapel of a coat are over.
By 2026, it will be worn everywhere :
• Over an oversized blazer
A modern, chic and powerful version.
• On a winter coat
On the shoulder or collar: an elegant touch that elevates any outfit.
• On a silk scarf
Tied around the neck, fastened with a retro brooch: instant glamour, 50s style reinvented.
• On a leather bag
An ingenious way to personalize your bag without damaging it.
• On a beret, a cap or a hat
Very trendy in street style.
• In accumulation
Several small brooches on the same side: the effect is artistic and decidedly modern.
• In the center of a dress or a simple sweater
The brooch becomes a focal point, an almost sculptural piece of jewelry.
Which vintage brooches should you choose?
A guide to choosing the perfect room**
There are several types of vintage brooches, each with its own personality:
• 1950s–60s: Sophisticated gold pieces
Incredible quality, floral shapes, jewelry inspirations.
• 1970s: Textured gold & enamel
Organic patterns, deep colors, sculptural pieces.
• The 1980s: Unapologetic maximalism
Rhinestones, volumes, abstract shapes, “statement” brooches.
• Signature brooches
Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin, Dior, Givenchy, Trifari, Monet…
Some become true treasures for collectors.
• European handcrafted brooches
Many Swiss, Italian, and French jewelers created unique pieces in the 1960s–1990s.
How to recognize a quality brooch?
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She has weight.
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The stones are set.
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The metal is smooth and even.
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The fastening mechanism is solid, often thicker than on modern jewelry.
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The signature (if present) is engraved, not printed.
Conclusion: 2026, the year the vintage brooch reclaims its place at the top of fashion
Between fashion trend, chic nostalgia and desire for durability, the vintage brooch brings together all the qualities sought after today.
It enhances an outfit, tells a story and offers an elegance that transcends the years.
If you wish to start a collection or find the brooch that suits you, do not hesitate to discover my selection on Mes Épaulettes Vintage : I hunt for, select and restore each piece with care so that it can continue to shine… for many years to come.
See you soon
Alex
