How to Wear Brooches According to Celtic Culture

Break out the sweaters, wrap up in your scarf, and grab your pumpkin spice latte, sweater weather is almost here and that means it’s brooch season! Brooches are really the best accessory to spruce up your old wardrobe and give it that pop that you’re looking for, but where did brooches come from?

The Invention & History of Brooches

Brooches originally were invented during ancient Roman times and have been a staple in fashion ever since. Northern Europeans, such as the Celts and Vikings used them to fasten heavy cloaks together in order to keep warm, but they are much more versatile today than just your everyday “ pin it on a jacket” kind of thing. Large fly plaid or tartan pins are perfect for fastening a modern day ruana or cape.

Many public figures, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, have used brooches for everything from pinning them in her hair, on the waist of dresses or even pinning it to some ribbon for an Edwardian choker look. These are all fabulous examples of how one brooch can change the entire look of your ensemble, but don’t forget the classic brooch; displayed proudly on your favorite autumn jacket or pinned neatly on your most loved sweater.

When & How to Wear Brooches

While people use brooches to decorate jackets and hold scarfs, there is truly no “off season” for them. Brooches come in many forms and designers use metals such as gold, silver and pewter. Whether adorned with jewels or colorful enamel, there is a brooch for every season! Especially if you choose a classic Celtic brooch – the most versatile style because of its timeless design!

The Emotional Meaning of Brooches

Brooches have also had deep emotional meaning as gifts and keepsakes. In some Celtic cultures people wear a brooch to symbolize their clan, for luck or represent wealth. Today, grooms give groomsmen brooches, known as kilt pins. Some kilt pins are plain while others are ornately designed with swords and emblems. Brides often wear a Scottish Luckenbooth Brooch that displays two hearts entwined with a crown displayed on top, a Scottish love token.

So, with all the options available, how are you going to wear yours?