Brooching an unfashionable subject?

Why are some pieces of jewellery less popular than others? Is it because they are generally less wearable? Or that people just don't know how to wear them and may even be a little afraid to experiment?

I don't think any item of jewellery is as misunderstood as the timeless brooch. For millenia they have been worn by men and women alike adorning everything from armoury to crinoline; sometimes a mark of status and for others a symbol of affection. Yet in the 21st Century they are the hardest to sell and the least worn item of all.

I have a particular penchant for the much maligned brooch - but maybe it's just me? Does anyone else wear them? And if so, how? Here's a few examples of how I wear some of my brooches; see what you think:



Vintage Silver Shotgun brooch worn on hip pocket

 


Silver, Marcasite & Citrine Fob Brooch worn on pocket



Antique Gold Peacock Locket Brooch. Worn as a pendant

 




Early Victorian Diamond & Enamel Brooch. Bale added to the safety chain loop to make it into a pendant








The brooch remains original but it's much more wearable.



I never go out without a big vintage costume brooch on my coat, and I've used them to smarten up handbags, harclips and even shoes. So am I mad or do you think there is a place for the humble brooch in the 21st Century? Either way, one thing is for sure; the likes of Edna Birch haven't done them any favours... ;-)



How NOT to wear a cameo brooch.


TTFN!