The Comeback of Brooches in Old Money Circles
Once dismissed as relics of the past, brooches are experiencing a powerful resurgence, especially in the style playbooks of the old money elite. Far from being outdated, these accessories are making bold yet elegant statements on lapels, silk scarves, and even evening bags. In 2025, the brooch has quietly reclaimed its throne.
This post explores the brooch's journey from vintage heirloom to modern-day status symbol, and why those who understand wealth's subtle codes are bringing it back into everyday rotation.
A Symbol of Wealth and Heritage
In old money circles, heritage matters. Brooches are often passed down through generations, with each piece carrying stories, status, and sentimental value. They are more than accessories, they are wearable legacies. Wearing a brooch today quietly signals that your style has roots deeper than seasonal trends.
Understated Glamour, Not Flash
While logos scream, brooches whisper. That’s why they appeal to the old money aesthetic. A delicate gold pin on a blazer lapel or a sapphire-studded piece securing a silk scarf offers sophistication without ostentation. Quiet luxury lives in the details, and brooches deliver just that.
High-Quality Materials Lead the Trend
Old money style is inseparable from the use of luxurious materials. Expect to see brooches crafted from 14k or 18k gold, real pearls, antique gemstones, and hand-painted enamel. Costume jewelry rarely passes in these circles. The rise of authentic vintage finds is driving this movement.
Modern Styling of a Classic Accessory
Today’s brooches are styled in refreshing, modern ways. Think clusters of smaller pins layered on a wool coat or minimalist gold brooches used to cinch a flowy dress. Fashion houses are also integrating brooches into runway looks, no longer just reserved for older generations.
Genderless Appeal in 2025
Brooches are no longer just for women. In old money fashion today, men confidently wear brooches on tuxedo lapels, outerwear, or even in place of a tiepin. This versatility reflects the growing appreciation for accessories that transcend gender norms while adding flair to conservative ensembles.
Popular Designs That Reflect Status
Classic motifs like floral shapes, animal figures, and heraldic crests dominate among the wealthy. These symbols aren’t random, they reflect tradition and taste. A vintage Cartier panther brooch, for example, can say far more about status than a designer handbag ever could.
Why Brooches Are Perfect for Layering
Unlike necklaces or rings, brooches offer endless placement options, on hats, belts, collars, or bags. This makes them an ideal choice for layering or styling in personalized ways. The old money wardrobe thrives on repetition with variation, and brooches make every repeat feel fresh.
Brooches as Investment Pieces
Brooches are not just beautiful, they’re collectible. Auction houses regularly sell vintage brooches for tens of thousands of dollars. Whether it’s Art Deco, Edwardian, or mid-century modern, the right piece holds and increases value, making it both a style and financial asset.
Brooches and Quiet Luxury
If quiet luxury could be distilled into one accessory, it might just be the brooch. It doesn’t seek attention but rewards those with a discerning eye. Paired with cashmere, wool, or silk, a brooch completes the look with historical gravitas and modern elegance.
How to Choose the Right Brooch
Start by considering the tone of your wardrobe. If you lean warm, gold pieces with amber or brown stones work well. Cooler tones pair beautifully with silver and sapphire accents. Keep your outfit simple and let the brooch do the storytelling.
Styling Tips from Old Money Icons
Style icons like Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy, and Princess Diana all embraced the brooch. Their secret, balance. Whether at the shoulder, collarbone, or waistline, brooches were used to enhance silhouettes without cluttering them. Follow their lead, less is more.
Incorporating Brooches into Daily Wear
You don’t need a gala to wear a brooch. Pin one on a turtleneck, denim jacket, or tote bag for a daily touch of class. Old money style isn’t about saving things for special occasions, it’s about making every occasion look polished.
Brooches and the Rise of Heirloom Gifting
Gifting a brooch carries deep emotional value. It’s not a trend piece, it’s a keepsake. In old money families, brooches are often passed down for birthdays, graduations, or weddings. In 2025, many are returning to this tradition as a way to gift meaningfully.
Where to Find Quality Brooches
The best brooches come from estate sales, antique shops, or curated online platforms specializing in vintage accessories. Avoid fast fashion versions, they don’t align with the ethos of true quiet luxury. Look for hallmarks, weight, and craftsmanship when shopping.
