Artful Brooches: Wearing History and Art on Your Sleeve
If you think brooches are an accessory reserved only for grandma, think again! Yes, fine jewelry aficionados, we're talking brooches - those artful adornments that are no less than wearable pieces of art. Today, we are about to indulge in a listicle journey of discovery with these timeless accessories. And who knows? You might want to scavenge through your vintage treasure chest to discover hidden brooch beauties. Let's dive in!
A Tale of Time – The Historical Chronicles
Brooches are no new kid on the block. Their existence can be traced back to the Bronze Age when they were used primarily to hold clothing together. Fancy being a walking, talking piece of history, right?
The Golden Age of Brooches – Victoria’s Secret?
The Victorian era is often called the golden age of brooches, and not due to excessive gold usage. Brooches then were more about sentiment and less about opulence, often featuring humble designs with intricate craftsmanship (Ever thought that the butterfly brooch you inherited might symbolize the soul?).
The Art Nouveau & Art Deco – When Brooches Became Canvas
Speaking of butterfly brooches, the Art Nouveau period saw a flurry of nature-inspired designs. Fast forward to the Art Deco era, brooches took a geometric turn, aligning with architectural styles of the time (Pablo Picasso, were you a secret brooch designer?).
Brooches Today – A Comeback or Continued Reign?
Fast-forwarding to present times, brooches have made a major fashion comeback, thanks to royals and top-notch celebrities who have breathed a fresh wave into them ( Kate Middleton, we are looking at you).
Tips to Wear Brooches the 21st Century Way
Digging out mom’s vintage brooches and wearing them the 21st-century way requires some artful skills. But don't worry, we’ve got you covered. Remember, brooches are like Brussels sprouts – they take some time to get used to but once you do, there’s no going back.
“Art consists of limitation. The most beautiful part of every picture is the frame.”- Gilbert K. Chesterton.
So, take this quote to heart and use your brooch as a frame that adds a bit of drama and intrigue to your outfit.
Multiple Brooches - Too Much of a Good Thing?
Don't shy away from wearing multiple brooches. As a fine jewelry owner, it’s not only gravy but also style on your mashed potatoes (in case you were wondering where the second joke was).