8 Creative Ways to Style Brooches in 2025

Once considered old-fashioned, brooches are back and better than ever to style with the perfect look! Here’s how to wear them in ways you’d never expect.

Okay, I’ll admit it: I’ve always had a soft spot for brooches. That's why I am creating one for the Qui Talks logo. There’s something about them that adds instant charm and personality to an outfit. And guess what? Brooches are back in a big way for 2025! No longer just for grandmas or outdated fashion, these little accessories are totally trending, and I am here for it. Designers like Carolina Herrera and Tory Burch showed us exactly how to style brooches in fresh, fun ways this season.

Whether you have a collection of pins or just one cute piece you’re dying to try, Harper's Bazaar has are eight unexpected ways to style them that’ll take your outfits to the next level. Trust me—brooches are not just for coats anymore!

1. Brooch Instead of a Necklace

Who says a brooch can’t replace a necklace? If you’ve got a top that’s already got some details going on, like this Altuzarra draped blouse, a sculptural brooch can be the perfect finishing touch. Not only does it act as a statement piece, but you can use it to accentuate different parts of your look:

• To show off your waist, place it at the side where the fabric gathers.

• For a back-focused vibe, pin it to the back of your shoulder strap.

• Want to highlight your neckline? Put it on the front strap and cinch the fabric for a more structured look.

The beauty here is that you can experiment with placements based on your mood and outfit!

2. The Backwards Shawl

Here’s a fancy trick for your next black-tie event: flip your shawl around and wear it backwards! Yep, you heard me right. Drape the shawl with the back facing forward, and secure it with a brooch at the back to hold it in place. This look has major drama (and it’s perfect for a low-back bodysuit). Just make sure to pin it before you get dressed—or have a friend help you out!

3. Brooches on Your Bag

If you love bag charms, you’re going to be obsessed with this one. Transform your everyday bag with a cute brooch. I love the idea of adding personality to a simple woven crossbody phone holder by attaching a brooch. Or, you could use a leather cardholder with a pin hanging from the lanyard—total chic vibes.

You can even go wild and pile a bunch of brooches on a mini tote. The more, the merrier, right?

4. A Day-to-Night Blouse Upgrade

So, you’ve got that trusty tie-neck blouse you wear all the time. Spice it up by adding a brooch where the ties meet! It’ll elevate your look in seconds—whether you pin it to the side where the neck ties cross or add one right in the center of the neckline. It’s like giving your blouse a little makeover!

5. Adding Flair to Your Knitwear

We all love the classic move of tying a sweater around our neck or waist, but let’s take it up a notch by adding a brooch. Whether you go for a horizontal pin to secure the arms of your sweater around your neck or a loop brooch around your waist, it’s an easy way to make your sweater game look intentional and fashion-forward.

6. Statement Collar Tips

Here’s a fun idea: put a brooch at the tip of your shirt collar for an instantly elevated look. Whether you’re going for something subtle and vintage or bold and modern, this little trick can transform your basic shirt into something a lot more polished.

7. Brooch as a Sculptural Cape

Take your wrap scarf or shawl and turn it into a chic cape with the help of a brooch. Pin it across your shoulders for a sculptural look that adds both function and flair to your outfit. It’s the perfect finishing touch when you want your outerwear to feel as high-fashion as your outfit underneath.

8. A Brooch Party (on Your Bag!)

If you’re really feeling adventurous, mix and match different brooches on your bag. This is where you can have a little fun with size, style, and placement. Whether it’s a mini tote or something a little more structured, layering brooches adds a fun, personalized twist to your accessory game.

Brooches are no longer just for your grandmother’s collection—they’re back, and they’re here to stay. There’s no right or wrong way to style them; it’s all about your personal touch. Whether you’re pinning them on your shirt, bag, or scarf, these little accessories have the power to completely elevate your outfit. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to add some brooches to your wardrobe!