TL;DR
Jess Cartner-Morley reports that brooches have re-emerged as a fashionable accessory, moving beyond their traditional ‘church fete’ vibe. High-profile figures like Zendaya and Meryl Streep have popularized the trend, making brooches a versatile and stylish addition to contemporary outfits.
Jess Cartner-Morley reports that brooches have shed their traditional ‘church fete’ reputation and are now a fashionable, modern accessory, favored by celebrities like Zendaya and Meryl Streep. This shift makes brooches relevant for stylish dressing today and signals a broader trend in accessory fashion.
According to Cartner-Morley, brooches have become a key fashion statement, with recent high-profile appearances at events like the Met Gala and the Oscars. Zendaya’s diamond serpent brooch and Meryl Streep’s multiple brooches at a film premiere exemplify this trend. The new approach involves wearing brooches in unexpected ways—such as scattering multiple pieces across a jacket lapel or pinning them to scarves—to create visual interest. Cartner-Morley notes that the trend is accessible, with vintage and affordable options readily available, and emphasizes that modern brooches are more playful and expressive than their traditional counterparts.
Why It Matters
This trend matters because it signals a shift in how accessories are used to express personality and style. Brooches, once seen as outdated or overly formal, are now versatile and can add wit, subversion, and elegance to everyday outfits. Their popularity among celebrities and fashion insiders suggests a broader cultural move towards more personalized and creative fashion choices.
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Background
Historically, brooches have been associated with vintage fashion, royal adornment, and formal wear. In recent years, they have been somewhat sidelined by other accessories. However, in 2026, designers and style icons have revived their appeal, integrating brooches into contemporary looks. This resurgence is part of a broader trend of reimagining traditional accessories for modern, playful, and individualistic dressing. Notable moments include Zendaya’s Met Gala look and Streep’s multiple brooches at a film premiere, highlighting their elevated status.
“A brooch is the best thing you can do for your outfit right now. It feels fresh and new. Worn right – we are getting to that bit – it is also quite witty, which is always an enjoyable way to dress.”
— Jess Cartner-Morley
“There is just one simple rule for the modern brooch-wearer. To make it crystal clear that you are in the Zendaya-at-the-Met lane rather than manning the tea urn, there should be something unexpected about your brooch.”
— Jess Cartner-Morley
“The brooch may be a fashion statement right now, but it works best when it is a personal statement as well.”
— Jess Cartner-Morley
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What Remains Unclear
While the trend is clearly gaining momentum among celebrities and fashion insiders, it remains to be seen how widely it will be adopted by the general public. The longevity of the trend and its integration into everyday fashion are still developing, and some may view the bold styling as niche or eccentric.
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What’s Next
Fashion experts anticipate further high-profile appearances and designer collaborations that will cement brooches as a staple accessory in 2026. Retailers are expected to expand their offerings, and styling guides will likely emerge to help consumers incorporate brooches into their daily wardrobes. Monitoring social media and runway shows will reveal how the trend evolves.
fashionable lapel brooch
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Key Questions
Why are brooches considered fashionable now?
Because they have been embraced by celebrities and stylists as versatile, playful accessories that add personality and a touch of wit to outfits, moving beyond their traditional formal or vintage associations.
How should I wear a brooch to stay on trend?
Place it unexpectedly—scatter multiple brooches across a lapel, pin one to a scarf, or create asymmetrical arrangements. The key is to make your brooches stand out and reflect your personality.
Are brooches only for formal occasions?
No, contemporary styling encourages wearing brooches with casual outfits, such as pinning them to T-shirts, dresses, or bags for everyday wear.
Where can I find affordable or vintage brooches?
Car boot sales, vintage shops, and online marketplaces like Asos or thrift stores often carry unique, inexpensive brooches suitable for modern styling.
Will this trend last?
It is uncertain. While current momentum suggests a strong presence in 2026, fashion trends can be fleeting. The trend’s future depends on continued celebrity endorsement and consumer adoption.
