A Brief History of the Joy of Getting Pinned
Marina Fleurette Brooch, $64
The bejeweled brooch was an accessory that arose from a practical need to attach clothing in the same way we now rely on buttons or snaps. During the Roman Empire they were used to secure tunics and cloaks, and in the Bronze Age they were encrusted with gemstones. Scandinavian women often used them to secure their traditional pinafores. During the Victorian era, women enclosed pieces of human hair and engraved inscriptions to memorialize a loved one. Queen Victoria's love of jewelry helped inspire a wealth of designs from wreaths to insects. During the roaring 1920s, the fashion world had its way with what the French call a "broche." a skewer, or long needle. Top French jewelers such as Verdura, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Chanel elevated these pieces to be haute couture accessories.
Anchor Vintage Brooch, $129
Whether they are costume or fine jewelry, use them to dress up a hat, shoes, evening bag, secure a shawl, adorn a coat, jacket, evening gown, sash, bouquet, or traditional collar.
Claudette Vintage Brooch, $98
Maia Marquis Vintage Brooch, $88
Related Posts
5 Ways to Wear a Brooch on Your Wedding Day
Big Brooches
Unique, Contemporary Brooches
