Want to add a little shimmer to your ensemble, but not really one for necklaces, earrings, and rings? Look no further than the ever-versatile brooches.
Powerful women like Madeleine Albright used them to make political statements, others used the brooch to keep their Hermes scarves together. Fashion icon, Iris Apfel piled on hers, while keeping in mind her mother’s wise words: “My mother knew if you bought a couple of really good architectural outfits and put your money into accessories, you could create a million different looks. She taught that to me, which I think was invaluable.”
Be it a detailed, sparkly number from Gucci, or a elegant fit for royalty from Dolce & Gabbana, or one of Saint Laurent‘s iconic monogram – any one of them is bound to add a little character and attitude to any outfit. Wear them as a single statement piece, or as a cluster for a modern take – go on, just pin it!
p.s: We’ve also added in two brooches with a little local flavour, just for fun!
Main photo: agirlastyle.com
1 /10
Alexander McQueen eye brooch
Set with a pink and clear Swarovski crystal-encrusted evil eye motive, this gold-tone brass brooch is framed with iridescent faux pearls. This Alexander McQueen brooch is part of the brand’s Fall Winter 2016 collection, which featured an abundance of charms and symbols.
2 /10
Balenciaga ‘B’ brooch
If your initials contain a ‘B’, lucky you. Cast from polished palladium-tone brass, and topped with a crown motif, this Balenciaga brooch is made in Italy. It also features crystals and Swarovski pearl drop.
Balenciaga palladium-tone, crystal and Swarovski pearl brooch, US$1,495 (S$2,164).
3 /10
Dolce & Gabbana metal pin
With this Swarovski crystal-embellished pin, Dolce & Gabbana lets every lady feel like royalty. Its Fall Winter 2016 collection takes inspiration from the world of princesses and fairytales, reinterpreted though a contemporary lens.
4 /10
Givenchy faux pearl brooch
This brooch is sculpted from silver-tone brass into a cross – a signature motif in Givenchy’s accessories this season. It is decorated with faux pearls, and the burnished-finish creates an antique effect.
Givenchy silver-tone brass faux pearl brooch, US$740 (S$1,085).
5 /10
Gucci hand brooch
When it comes to details, Gucci doesn’t fail us. This hand motif brooch is designed with rings, bracelet and fingernail details. All of which are encrusted with glass and resin beads.
Gucci hand brooch in metal with glass beads, US$980 (S$1,418).
6 /10
Marni brooch
Rendered in glass rhinestones, coated-brass and a silver setting, this Marni brooch is designed to the likes of modern geometrics.
7 /10
Saint Laurent monogram brooch
Look closely and you’ll find snakes entwined to form the iconic YSL logo. Wear it on its own on a tailored black blazer, or as a cluster with other brooches, this signature Saint Laurent number is definitely a keeper.
Saint Laurent snake monogram brooch in old gold-toned brass, US$395 (S$572).
8 /10
Sonia Rykiel brooch
Sonia Rykiel’s palm tree articulated large brooch in metal is exquisitely dotted with Swarovski strass. Perfect for the tropical island-loving individuals.
9 /10
Strangely Singaporean Pineapple badge
“Huat” means prosperity in the Hokkien dialect, and it’s a common saying in Singapore. We say it when we want something to go well (it can also mean “good luck”). So, by wearing this adorable pineapple (they’re a symbol of good luck) badge, prosperity and good fortune will come your way.
10 /10
Fancy Gem Biscuit pin
Most Singaporeans will remember these fancy gem biscuits fondly. These old-school biscuits topped with brightly coloured icing are what children had as snacks in the 70s, 80s, and 90s.