Brooches are back
Brooches are back and better than ever! A revived trend, if you will. These versatile accessories offer endless possibilities to refine your style, whether you go for formal, casual, or something in between. Brooches come in all shapes and sizes, so there is always a perfect match for your look. At Donna Dorée, we regularly search for unique pieces that we can add to our vintage collection.
But now we have something very special:
Donna Dorée has launched her first own brooch!
Read on to discover all about this unique creation and the rich history of the brooch.
A bit of history of the brooch
The origins of brooches go back centuries. In the early 15th century, the fronts of dresses were often decorated with gold thread and pearls. In the 17th century, this developed into expensive 'breast jewels', worn by ladies from the Dutch regent class. In the 18th century, it became a common ornament among the European nobility. Especially the so-called 'stomacher', a large brooch that covered the front of a dress, was popular. And it was also a functional ornament that could hold a piece of clothing, such as a coat, together. These jewels were often worn by monarchs and nobility, such as Queen Charlotte, who was known as 'the Queen of Diamonds'.
The devant-de-corsage, a large brooch worn centered, is an impressive piece of jewelry that had its heyday in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although less practical and rare today, this piece lives on in the royal collections of Queen Mary, for example, who was known for her love of jewelry. Her collection of stomachers, often composed of various diamonds and emeralds, remains a source of inspiration for jewelry lovers. This period of splendor is also vividly depicted in one of my favorite Netflix series Bridgerton, in which Queen Charlotte shines with her lavish jewelry, including beautiful necklaces, earrings and brooches.
Brooches have undergone numerous transformations over the years, with their design and use adapting to the fashion of the moment. During the roaring twenties, a period in which Art Deco flourished, brooches became increasingly compact and sleek in design, in keeping with the modern and geometric aesthetic of the time. Later, in the 1950s and 1960s, the brooch experienced a revival in fashion. Women wore these pieces with pride on the lapels of their suits and blazers, adding a sophisticated touch to their outfits.
Evolution of the brooch
Cultural influences and the new generation of women who see jewelry as more than just bling are shedding new light on these brooch adornments. Originally, brooches began their lives as functional objects to secure garments, but today they serve a different purpose. You can tell a story with your jewelry and take the stage with a statement brooch.
Over the past few seasons I have seen more and more brooches popping up on the catwalk and on the red carpet. Worn in the hair, on someone’s hat, on the chest, attached to the waist of a dress or gown or scattered across all sorts of jackets…
One thing is for sure, brooches are back in fashion. Brands like Schiaparelli, Loewe and Dior are showing how versatile and stylish modern brooches can be. And they have not only returned to recent jewelry collections by Chanel, Boucheron, Chaumet and Chopard, they are also back in the minds of collectors looking for antique brooches of all shapes and sizes.
The versatile brooch by Donna Dorée
At Donna Dorée we believe in the power of timeless elegance, and the brooch is the piece of jewellery that effortlessly combines tradition and modern sophistication. With our collection of iconic brooches, we put a contemporary spin on a classic accessory, designed to shine on any occasion.
My very first brooch design is the 'Donna' . With her I pay tribute to feminine strength and refinement, inspired by the essence of all that iconic fashion.
The large hat, the pearl in the ear, and the stylish blouse with a large bow capture the timeless charm with a modern twist in this elegant piece of jewelry.
But what makes her extra special? 
A unique and multifunctional piece of jewelry
During our design process we created a multifunctional brooch. A special brooch made of precious metal with a magnet , so that it does not damage your clothes and you can wear your brooch on the most delicate fabrics without damaging them.
And it can also be worn as a pendant | charm | pendant on your necklace, making it a unique piece in your collection and allowing you to wear it in a different, inventive way every time.
Forget yesterday's trends; this brooch brings to life the glamour of an elegant Parisienne or Italian Donna , with a touch of allure and a nod to haute couture.
How do you wear your brooch?
Be inspired by old traditions and use your silver or gold brooch to elegantly fasten your scarf. No matter what style you like to dress in, a brooch is never a mismatch! Wear your brooch chic on the collar of your blazer or create a statement and wear your brooch tough on your hat, or use it as an accessory on your bag for a trendy touch. The possibilities are endless and offer space to express your unique style! 
Silver brooches
Our silver brooches are made from sterling silver 925 , a material known for its purity and durability. At 92.5% pure silver, this precious metal is enhanced by a small amount of other metals, making it ideal for jewelry that needs to be both delicate and robust.
Sterling silver has a mystical appeal. It comes from the depths of the earth and carries the magic of nature within it. Each silver brooch in our collection is finished with a protective layer of rhodium, which preserves its shine and protects the piece from scratches and discoloration. Our silver brooches are perfect for everyday use, but they also radiate refined elegance during special occasions.
Golden brooches
Our gold brooches radiate pure elegance and luxury. With our selection of gold brooches we offer something for everyone: whether you choose gold vermeil - a high-quality gold layer over sterling silver that is known for its durable quality - or the ultimate luxury of solid gold. Especially for lovers of real gold, you can have our Donna brooch custom-made in 14-carat (585) or even 18-carat (750) gold, available in yellow gold, white gold or the stylish rose gold. Feel free to request a quote for a unique brooch that suits your wishes.
Gold is a timeless precious metal that has been a symbol of wealth, power and beauty for centuries. The origin of gold, from the explosive energy of stars, makes this metal not only rare, but also magical. It brings a piece of that mystery with it, which you can see in every gold brooch from our collection.
Vintage brooches: a nostalgic nod to the past
For true lovers of timeless fashion, vintage brooches are the perfect choice. These brooches tell a story, with designs ranging from the refined styles of the 20s to the extravagant shapes of the 60s. Retro and vintage brooches have a certain charm and authenticity that is rarely found in modern designs. What's old is new again.
At Donna Dorée we are always looking for unique vintage pieces (not only brooches, but also rings, earrings etc.) that carry a touch of history. Whether it is a Victorian brooch with pearls or an Art Deco design, each piece in our vintage collection has been carefully selected to bring the beauty of the past to the present. We regularly add to our collection, so don't miss out!
Why brooches are back in fashion
Brooches are back not only for their versatility, but also because they evoke a sense of nostalgia and a connection to times gone by. In a world where fashion is often fleeting and fast-changing, brooches offer a moment of elegance and enduring style. They are perfect for personalizing an outfit and adding a timeless touch that is not bound by seasonal trends. 
A modern brooch for everyone
Brooches are no longer just for women; men and the entire LGBTQ+ community are embracing this trend. In recent years, we have seen big names and mostly men wearing large brooches at the Oscars. It is proof that brooches have a universal appeal and add an elegant touch to any outfit.
At Donna Dorée, we see our brooches, but also our earrings and other jewelry as more than 'just a piece of jewelry'; they are storytellers. Our first designs are inspired by the female body and we want women to embrace their 'inner golden woman' and shine with our statement jewelry.
But I would love it if our Golden Women were also worn by men. Literally and figuratively!
We see more and more men following feminine trends, from wearing nail polish to wearing skirts, pearl necklaces and big jewelry (like brooches). And I hope this trend continues!
Let's go ladies and gents! 'Be your own muse'.
Browse all our jewelry here and discover how our jewelry can be the ultimate addition to your personal style. Add a touch of timeless sophistication to your wardrobe with a unique piece from one of the Donna Dorée collection(s).