Why Brooches Are Making a Comeback in 2026 and How to Wear Them

Brooches soft-launched their return in 2025, appearing on the red carpet at the Met Gala and Fashion Week. But in 2026, brooches are officially back. At Aleks Jewellers, we couldn’t be happier to see one of jewellery’s most expressive pieces reclaim the spotlight.

Last year, brooches were worn by celebrities such as Lewis Hamilton and Julia Roberts, adorning lapels, hats, ties and even skirts. From delicate stick pins to oversized, sculptural designs, the revival has been driven by a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship. Much of this resurgence is rooted in vintage brooch trends, with wearers gravitating towards pieces that feel meaningful, collected and timeless rather than disposable.

The History of Brooches: From Function to Fashion

Brooches are one of the oldest forms of jewellery, originally designed to fasten garments before buttons existed. Over centuries, they evolved into decorative heirlooms, often marking milestones, wealth or personal identity.

Some of the most recognisable silhouettes include art deco geometric designs, antique floral motifs, gemstone-studded gold brooches, pearl clusters and ornate Victorian pieces. These historic forms are now inspiring today’s designers, who are reinterpreting them with contemporary proportions and styling in mind.

In 2026, we’re seeing a particular rise in statement brooches, bold designs that command attention rather than blend in. Think oversized gold forms, sculptural settings, and brooches that feel closer to wearable art than traditional accessories. These pieces tap into nostalgia while still feeling fashion-forward, which is exactly why they resonate so strongly right now.

How to Wear Brooches in 2026

One of the reasons brooches are thriving again is their versatility. They instantly elevate an outfit, adding polish and individuality without overwhelming the look. Modern how to wear brooches advice focuses on creativity rather than rules, and that freedom is what makes them so appealing.

When styling brooches this year, the key is intention. Whether minimal or maximal, the placement should feel deliberate. Below are our favourite brooch styling tips for 2026.

1. Secure Loose Layers

Brooches are no longer confined to the lapels. In 2026, they’re being used functionally again, but stylishly. Use a brooch to cinch a blazer, create draping in a skirt, or secure soft layers like scarves and shawls.

This approach adds dimension to otherwise simple outfits and allows you to experiment with shape. Brooches can even replace cufflinks, offering a fresh, jewellery-led take on classic tailoring.

2. Adorn Lapels

Lapels remain the most iconic place to wear a brooch, and this is where the trend intersects beautifully with menswear. 

A single brooch on a blazer or coat feels sharp, elegant and slightly maximalist when chosen thoughtfully. Pair a structured jacket with a bold brooch to balance strength and softness, a look that feels perfectly suited to 2026.

3. Bunch Them Together

ALEKS RECOMMENDED! Why wear one brooch when you can wear five? Like Julia Roberts, show off all your brooches on one garment for a powerful, editorial look.

To keep the look refined, choose pieces that share a common element, like matching metals, complementary stones or a consistent era. We recommend gold brooches for a cohesive, luxury finish that works beautifully against tailoring and evening wear.

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The Brooch Revival Is Here to Stay

The return of brooches in 2026 reflects a wider shift towards individuality, heritage and intentional dressing. These pieces express your personality, history and creativity in a way few other accessories can.

At Aleks Jewellers, we celebrate jewellery that tells a story. Whether you’re drawn to vintage-inspired designs or modern statement brooches, now is the time to rediscover this iconic accessory and make it your own.

Explore our latest brooch collection and embrace the elegance, craftsmanship and confidence that brooches bring, not just for 2026, but for years to come.