Somewhere between clip-on earrings and Tupperware parties, the brooch got a bad rap. It was filed under “grandma accessories,” doomed to live out its days in dusty jewelry boxes. But here is the truth. The brooch is back, and it is here to make your outfit the most interesting one in the room. Even if you do not think it is back, you can be the one to bring it back. We are going to tell you how.

Brooches are the ultimate underdog accessory. They are sustainable (hello, thrift store treasure hunts), affordable (you can find a killer one for under ten dollars if you know where to look), and completely unique. No two are exactly the same, which means your style instantly feels personal. And unlike most statement pieces, they do not require a whole new outfit. They make the outfit.

Think of them as little wearable exclamation points.You can stick them: 

• On your hat: Take any hat you love and pin a brooch on the band or brim. Suddenly, you breathe new life into something you have worn a hundred times before.

• On your purse: Give your handbag some personality. It works especially well on canvas totes, clutches, or crossbody straps. Just be sure it is a material that will hold up to a pin without damage. One of our favorite looks is a brooch cluster on a bag, so if you have a few, go for it.

• On your shirt or blazer: The classic spot is the collar or lapel, but try grouping a few together like a mini gallery wall for maximum impact. On a more relaxed shirt, you can use a brooch to create natural lines and shapes that change the silhouette.

• Unexpected spots: A scarf knot, the back of a denim jacket, even a belt loop.

Your first stop is the thrift store. The brooch section is usually ignored, which means you get first pick of quirky florals, mid century shapes, or enamel animals. We have found some of our favorites for the price of a coffee.

If you want something fresh and modern, we have been loving KITDO. Their brooch inspired pieces are sleek, sculptural, and unapologetically cool. They use a strong-hold magnet base, so you can bond and loop fabrics any way you want without damaging your clothes. It is a clever way to restyle, rethink, and reuse what you already own.

If you have a grandma or a stylish great aunt, this is your official homework. Ask if she has any brooches tucked away. Chances are, she will hand you something with a story, and you will get bonus points for keeping family fashion history alive.

The brooch is not just back, it is better than ever. It is sustainable, it is affordable, and it is one of the easiest ways to elevate your look without overthinking it. And trust me, once you start wearing them, you will notice how many people suddenly want to talk to you about your outfit.

So go forth and pin with confidence. For visuals to go with this newsletter, check out our Instagram reel.