As Autumn approaches, I ask you to consider the brooch as a dandy accessory. Admittedly the word brooch has distinctly feminine connotations, so perhaps we need a different name altogether to refer to brooches when worn by a man (suggestions in the comments, anyone?), but just like flowers worn in the lapel brooches are an excellent way to add interest and dandy detail to your blazer or jacket. You might be interested to know that brooches were originally a male accessory, used to fasten together your cloak, especially during the early settlement Anglo-Saxon years of the UK, but was co-opted by women over the years and as a result slowly became increasingly ornate.
Take back the brooch and you’ll discover there’s a joy in finding and wearing brooches suitable for a man. The best are often found in vintage and antique markets, one of a kind shows, and of course eBay, so below you will find some potential inspiration as you plan your wardrobe for the new season featuring finds from various markets.
For a more overtly masculine style of brooch try Nordic, Celtic, and Anglo-Saxon style brooches that have a more traditional look like these from Urweg, or for something more edgy try this McQ by Alexander McQueen safety pin.
Another option is to make your own. Find your choice of shiny object that will add some interest and pin it using a safety pin, for example a brass key, a cross, a repurposed cufflink. Co-ordinate your brooch with other elements of your outfit, like a scarf or pocket square, although, avoid an overload with a brooch that’s too showy plus a bold pocket square – it’s best to keep things simple to avoid the Liberace look.
What brooches or pins do you wear with your jackets? Let us know in the comments or tweet @finendandyshop.
Will Eagle is a British Dandy residing in Toronto and for the Autumn he’s looking forward to wearing the gold bumble bee on his moss-green cord jacket. You can follow him on Twitter @willeagle.
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