The Brooch as Messenger

Labor Day has come and gone. For most of us this symbolizes the end of Summer and the beginning of Fall. Cooler weather is coming and our favorite light fabrics of Summer will give way to jackets and suits, which brings me to this week’s fashion trend.

The brooch is one of the most interesting and often most versatile pieces of jewelry. This is not my hottest fashion trend to send you (read “Off the Cuff” for one), but there are still a large number of women who wear suits and dresses to work each day and there is no better way to add style and self expression than with a brooch to a collar, lapel or shoulder. Brooches are versatile because neckline or sleeve length of each outfit need not be taken into consideration, which is not the case with bracelets or necklaces. One famous lover of brooches is Madeleine Albright, Former US Secretary of State and Founder, The Albright Group LLC. She said that she used pins as a diplomatic tool; reinforcing the message of the day, choosing among pieces that depict an eagle, dove, balloon or bumble bee to name a few. “Read my Pins: The Madeleine Albright Collection” will go on display this month at the Museum of Art and Design in New York City. There is also a book entitled “Read my Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewel Box”, written by Ms. Albright, which accompanies the exhibit.

My message today: stop and smell the roses.