Buy a vintage brooch

History of the brooch

The brooch is a decorative piece of jewelry that has been worn by people for thousands of years. Its history can be traced back to the Bronze Age, around 1500 BCE, where it was used as a functional item to fasten clothing. Brooches were also used by the ancient Greeks and Romans, who often adorned their garments with brooches made of precious metals and adorned with gemstones.

During the Middle Ages, brooches became more elaborate and ornate, and were often used as a status symbol. They were also used to fasten cloaks and capes, and were often designed with intricate patterns and motifs.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, brooches became popular accessories for women's clothing, particularly for formal occasions. They were often made of precious metals and adorned with pearls and diamonds, and were worn as a symbol of wealth and social status.

During the Art Nouveau period of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, brooches became even more elaborate and artistic, featuring designs inspired by nature and the natural world. They were often made of enamel, gold, and other precious materials, and were highly sought after by collectors.

Today, brooches continue to be worn as decorative accessories, often as a way to add a pop of color or a touch of personality to an outfit. They are available in a wide range of styles and designs, from classic and traditional to modern and avant-garde.

How to style a vintage brooch?

Styling a brooch can add a touch of elegance and personality to any outfit. Here are a few tips to help you style a brooch:

Placement: Brooches can be worn in a variety of places, including on the lapel of a blazer or coat, on a scarf, on a hat, on a dress or blouse, or even on a handbag. Experiment with different placements to find the one that works best for your outfit and the style of the brooch.

Contrast: A brooch can add a pop of color or texture to an outfit. Consider the color and material of your brooch and how it will contrast with your clothing. Choose a brooch that complements the colors in your outfit. For example, if you're wearing a black and white outfit, a brooch with black and white stones or pearls would look great.

Layering: You can also layer brooches to create a unique look. Try layering two or three brooches of different sizes and styles to create a statement piece.

Balance: If you're wearing a statement brooch, keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking too busy. On the other hand, if you're wearing a simple brooch, you can add more accessories to create a more layered look.

Style: Consider the style of the brooch and how it will complement your outfit. A vintage brooch may work well with a retro-inspired outfit, while a modern brooch may be better suited to a more contemporary look.

Remember, when styling a brooch, the possibilities are endless. Have fun experimenting with different styles and placements until you find the perfect look.

High-end brooches to elevate your style

Many fashion houses incorporate brooches into their collections, but some of the more well-known ones include:

Chanel: The iconic French fashion house, founded by Coco Chanel, is known for its classic and elegant brooches. Chanel's signature camellia brooch is a popular choice.

Dior: The luxury fashion brand is known for its intricate and ornate brooch designs. Dior's brooches often feature colorful gemstones and are inspired by nature.

Gucci: The Italian fashion house offers a range of brooches that are bold and playful. Gucci's brooches often feature whimsical designs and can be made from a variety of materials.

Prada: The high-end fashion brand is known for its statement-making brooches. Prada's brooches often feature oversized crystals and are designed to be eye-catching.

Givenchy: The French luxury fashion house offers a range of brooches that are elegant and sophisticated. Givenchy's brooches often feature simple, geometric designs and are made from high-quality materials.

These are just a few examples of fashion houses that are known for their brooch designs. Other brands that offer brooches include Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga.

Buy vintage brooches online

In addition to beautiful vintage earrings, a vintage brooche can offer a finishing touch to your look. Discover our handpicked selection from the comfort of your own home in the Boutique Amsterdam webshop. Rest assured our years of experience in the jewelry sector means we keep a close eye on quality and can source beautiful pieces you probably won’t find anywhere else.