
By Giulia Piceni. Cover image by Anja Stroka.
Brooches can make a big difference. It’s often said that elegance, though a vague concept, is found in the details. This cliché was proven true on Oscar night when many celebrities donned tuxedos and suits with brooches, showcasing these subtle embellishments.
Stylists deserve credit for redefining traditional male formalwear by integrating precious brooches into their ensembles, ushering in a new era of sartorial creativity.
Let’s delve into the history of brooches to draw inspiration from iconic Oscar night moments and explore how these versatile accessories can elevate everyday outfits.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY ABOUT BROOCHES NEVER HURT ANYBODY
The history of brooches dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest examples of proto-brooches is the fibula, which was used in Ancient Rome as a buckle to fasten garments securely. Despite their widespread use, fibulae were often made from precious materials like gold, diamonds, enamel, and dazzling emeralds, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
Buttons gradually replaced fibulae with the advent of buttonholes in the 13th century. This transition was driven by the emergence of more complex and tighter-fitting garments in contemporary fashion.
During the 18th century, brooches regained popularity, even appearing in pendant varieties. Their versatility allowed jewellery designers to explore a plethora of creative options. Despite being two-dimensional, brooches could incorporate three-dimensional elements like relief surfaces or sculptural structures.
FROM BROOCH TO PIN: A POLITICAL SYMBOL
The more affordable version of brooches, known as pins, is also a powerful political symbol. Despite their lower economic value, they enhance an outfit by representing social causes and political beliefs.
During the French Revolution, both the rich and the poor, as well as the oppressors and the oppressed, wore these items. The wealthiest individuals wore brooches as a status symbol to remark their privilege, while those in the lower social classes used pins as a silent protest and a testimony of their political standpoint. The sans-culottes wore tricolour cocarde, while the supporters of the Jacobins used the white one.
Even suffragettes used to wear pins in symbolic colours of purple, white and forest green, which are still easy to find on online reseller sites and in museums. Wearing these pins signified support for the WSPU cause. Even today, during political campaigns, similar inexpensive brooches are distributed for free to promote several ideologies.
Fast forward to the present day, at the most recent Oscar night, both brooches and pins appeared on the red carpet. Political statements and glamour coexisted during the event. Many celebrities, including Billie Eilish, Finneas O’Connell, Ramy Youssef and Ava DuVernay, wore a red pin to advocate for humanitarian aid and a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
BROOCHES AS AN ERASER OF TOXIC MASCULINITY
The red carpet exuded refined elegance as Cartier, Tiffany, and Chaumet brooches adorned the lapels of celebrities’ suits. Exclusive pieces sourced from prestigious jewellers’ vaults or crafted specifically for the occasion added a layer of sophistication.
Cillian Murphy sported a Sovereign brooch, while Teo Yoo showcased a timeless tortoise brooch from the Cartier archives. These exquisite accents went beyond being mere accessories and became statements of refined taste and style.
Traditionally associated with a “granny jewel box connotation” – as defined by The New York Times in an article that explored the same theme – brooches have long been considered a feminine adornment, leaving men with the more conventional realm of medals and cufflinks. However, this year, stylists have ushered in a new era of menswear, challenging conventions and embracing a more diverse range of accessories.
In a realm where menswear often plays it safe, the addition of a brooch injects a refreshing twist, elevating ensembles to new heights and individuality.
BRING A SPARKLE TO YOUR WARDROBE WITH BROOCHES
Embrace the allure of Hollywood’s leading men and heartthrobs with a simple addition to your wardrobe. Disclaimer: you don’t need a big budget like your favourite stars to join the hottest accessory trend. With minimal effort, you can source these statement pieces from thrift stores, charity shops, or even your grandmother’s collection, making it incredibly sustainable.
Elevate your style effortlessly and join the ranks of the fashion-forward by incorporating a brooch into your next ensemble. Whether it’s for an everyday occasion or a big event, you’re sure to steal the spotlight.