Is there room for both in your brooches and pins collection?

In fashion, accessories, brooches and pins there is plenty of debate around the choice contemporary versus vintage pieces. Do you lean toward clean lines, minimalism and readily available or individuality, craftsmanship and a back story? What are the pro’s and con’s of each and is there room in your wardrobe for both?

What is vintage? It’s viewed as more than 20 years old and less than 100. Any pieces over 100 years old are considered to be antique. Vintage often tells the story of a past era in its design style. Pieces are generally not readily available, offering an individuality that’s difficult for others to replicate. The uniqueness of vintage adds character to an outfit, making your personal style stand out in what can be, a sea of sameness.

Vintage brooches can offer unique patterns, elaborate designs, intricate details, quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, along with a sense of nostalgia. Many pieces are made using older techniques and materials, like bone china and marcasite. And as a result of age, they may show some patina or minor damage. This raises the question, can you embrace the imperfections as part of a pin’s rich history?

Vintage offers the chance to incorporate unique pieces into your wardrobe, to embrace individuality, and is in stark contrast to mass produced, fast fashion trends. Each piece tells a story, and if that story resonates with you, it adds that individual touch to your style persona.

Conversely, contemporary brooches are influenced by innovation, minimalism and functionality. They’re designed around current trends, are readily available and are in pristine condition.

Contemporary pieces are often characterised by precision manufacturing, the use of cutting edge technology and innovative materials like recycled metals or lab grown gemstones. They’re usually on trend, designed to fit with current social and cultural influences, and have a modern aesthetic. A big selling point for many, is that contemporary pieces are usually in perfect condition, are easy to find (thanks Google), and to purchase.

Is there room for both in my wardrobe? The beauty of brooches as additions to your outfit, is the myriad of ways they can be worn on both clothing and accessories. So if you’re keen to build a brooch collection, there’s depth in having both vintage and contemporary pieces. It allows for creative expression, which after all, is the backbone of personal style.

Balance the clean lines of contemporary style with the intricacies of vintage pieces. Create visual appeal with a mix of statement pieces, textures and eras. Leverage the best of both worlds, create a fusion of old and new, develop a style that is uniquely you, as the ultimate in self expression.

Browse our vintage range, view our contemporary collection or checkout Substack for more roccoco articles.