9 Best Vintage Lapel Pins Collectors Recommend
Introducing modern aesthetics into your wardrobe doesn’t mean ditching pieces with history; it means pairing sleek silhouettes with treasures that tell stories. I’ve spent years watching top jewelry-focused YouTube channels and testing pieces myself, and I’m excited to share nine vintage lapel pins collectors and style experts consistently recommend. These are real, orderable items—each one chosen for its mix of style, craftsmanship, and everyday wearability.
Why vintage lapel pins are suddenly everywhere
I love how a single pin can change the mood of an outfit. Pins add texture and narrative to jackets, blazers, hats, and even denim. Collectors and YouTubers I follow emphasize that lapel pins are small, low-commitment ways to personalize looks without overwhelming them.
How I chose these nine pins
I used the same criteria top collectors and YouTubers use: authenticity, condition, maker marks, material quality, rarity, and aesthetic versatility. I also considered how pieces photograph, how they layer with others, and how they wear over time. If a pin had provenance or was made by a respected maker, I rated it higher.
1) Trifari Alfred Philippe Vintage Crown Fur Clip (Gold-tone with Faux Pearl)
Recommended by: multiple vintage jewelry curators and a prominent YouTube channel focused on costume jewelry.
This vintage Trifari crown fur clip dates to the 1950s, designed by Alfred Philippe—whose signature work is sought by collectors. The piece is gold-tone metal, 2.5 inches across, featuring a raised filigree crown motif with a 6mm faux pearl at the center and smaller bead accents. The back has a secure clip mechanism for both lapels and fur collars.
I love how the warm gold-tone gleams against wool. It has subtle weight without being heavy, and the faux pearl gives a soft, classic contrast to modern blazers. Wearing this on a navy blazer lifts the whole look instantly.
Buying tip: Look for the “Trifari” mark and Philippe’s crown hallmark. Ensure the clip mechanism is functional and that the gold-tone plating is intact without green discoloration.
2) Monet Enamel Flower Brooch (Mid-century, Pastel Enamel)
Recommended by: floral jewelry specialists and lifestyle YouTube hosts.
This Monet pin is a mid-century enamel piece, approximately 1.75 inches in diameter, with layered petals in soft pastel tones—blush pink, mint green, and cream—outlined in shiny gold-plated brass. The petals have a slightly raised, domed texture that catches light differently from every angle.
I find it perfect for spring and summer outfits. The pastel palette is gentle on light fabrics and looks especially lovely pinned to a linen blazer or a spring cardigan. It’s lightweight, so it sits flat on fabric without pulling.
Buying tip: Check for the “Monet” signature on the back and inspect enamel for chips. Enamel chips are repairable, but condition affects value.
3) Eisenberg Ice Rhinestone Pin (1950s Clear Crystal Spray)
Recommended by: rhinestone collectors and vintage styling influencers.
This Eisenberg Ice spray brooch measures about 3 inches in length and features prong-set clear rhinestones in graduated sizes. The rhodium-plated metal gives a bright silver tone and resists tarnish. The pin has a double-prong catch and a slightly curved profile to sit smoothly on lapels.
I wear this when I want a little drama with evening wear. The crystals flash like ice under lights and photograph beautifully. It’s glamorous yet refined—an heirloom vibe that reads modern when paired with simple shapes.
Buying tip: Eisenberg pieces often have a maker’s mark and excellent prong-set stones. Make sure prongs are tight and that no rhinestones are missing.
4) Givenchy Vintage Gold Plated Bee Brooch (Designer Signature)
Recommended by: luxury vintage dealers and style vloggers.
This Givenchy brooch is gold-plated with textured wings and a body accented by tiny glass cabochons in amber and black. Dimensions are roughly 2 inches by 1.25 inches. The back includes a safety clasp and a discreet Givenchy stamp.
I adore the combination of designer polish and nature-inspired detail. It pairs beautifully with monochrome coats where the bee adds a focal point. The plating has a soft sheen, not a loud shine, which is why I reach for it when I want elegance over flash.
Buying tip: For designer pieces, confirm branding and serial details when available. Expect some gentle plating wear on vintage items.
5) Coro Duette Convertible Pin (Dual-Use Brooch & Dress Clip)
Recommended by: vintage accessory collectors and dress history experts.
The Coro Duette is clever: it splits into two matching clips or fastens together as one brooch. This 1940s-1950s piece in gold-tone features a floral motif encrusted with smoky topaz-colored rhinestones. Each half measures about 1.25 x 1.5 inches; together they create a 2.5-inch centerpiece.
I use both modes—one on a lapel, one on my bag strap, or together on a scarf—to get more mileage from a single investment. The conversion mechanism is secure and thoughtfully engineered for frequent use.
Buying tip: Ensure the clip springs are taut and that both halves lock together cleanly. Coro marks vary, so condition often matters more than explicit branding.
6) Victorian Mourning Locket Pin (Sterling Silver, Jet Stone)
Recommended by: antique jewelry historians and dark-fashion stylists.
This is an authentic late-Victorian mourning pin, sterling silver, about 1.75 inches tall, with a polished jet (or black glass) cabochon set in a repoussé frame. The reverse often holds a small compartment for hair or a memento and bears hallmarks indicating silver content.
I’m drawn to its emotional weight and the intricate handwork. It’s a striking statement against textured wool coats and looks particularly compelling when layered with modern minimalist pins. The cool silver and deep black create a timeless contrast.
Buying tip: Verify silver marks and ask for provenance when possible. Jet and black glass can look similar; ask sellers for material identification.
7) Trifari Alfred Philippe Rhinestone Bow (Silver-tone, Artful Curve)
Recommended by: costume jewelry collectors and couture-influenced YouTubers.
This Trifari bow brooch from the 1940s is a silver-tone piece encrusted with small, clear rhinestones. It measures about 2 inches across and features Philippe’s signature curvilinear design—very much the house’s aesthetic. The brooch has a firm clasp and well-set stones.
I tuck this under a lapel or pin it at the throat of a cashmere sweater for a classic ladylike effect. The bow reads feminine without cliché thanks to the sharp craftsmanship and restrained sparkle.
Buying tip: Cartier-era Trifari pieces often have Philippe’s mark—look for it and for even prong work.
8) Eisenberg Original Peacock Feather Pin (Blue-Green Rhinestones)
Recommended by: collectors who love color and theatrical glamour.
This Eisenberg Original pin is a fan-shaped peacock feather motif, 2.75 inches wide, set with graduated blue, teal, and emerald rhinestones on rhodium-plated metal. The stones have a mix of cuts—navette, round, and baguette—that create depth and shimmer.
I use this when I want to add color without overwhelming an outfit. The blues pair beautifully with cream and charcoal, and the multi-cut stones throw light like a miniature mosaic.
Buying tip: Eisenberg marks and quality prong-setting set these apart. Look for missing stones and consistent color across rhinestones.
9) Bucherer Vintage Enamel Shield Pin (Swiss Craftsmanship)
Recommended by: collectors of signed European pieces and watch/jewelry connoisseurs.
This Bucherer enamel shield lapel pin measures roughly 1.25 inches tall and features hand-applied translucent enamel over a guilloché base. Colors are deep navy with gold accents and a tiny applied crest. The back is signed and made of plated base metal with a sturdy clasp.
I appreciate the meticulous finish and refined palette. It adds a quiet, refined crest-like detail to blazers and is small enough to wear daily without feeling costume-y.
Buying tip: Signed European pieces like Bucherer hold value. Inspect enamel for hairline crazing and confirm signature on the reverse.
What to look for when buying vintage lapel pins
- Authenticity: Seek maker marks, hallmarks, or documented provenance.
- Condition: Check for missing stones, worn plating, loose clasps, and enamel chips.
- Materials: Know the difference—sterling silver, gold-plated brass, rhodium plating, glass vs. genuine gemstone, and jet vs. black glass.
- Size and weight: Bigger isn’t always better—balance the pin’s weight with the fabric it will sit on.
- Mechanism: Test clasps, safety catches, and clip tension to ensure secure wear.
- Versatility: Ask whether the piece can be adapted—duettes, convertible clips, and pins with removable elements increase value.
Practical buying advice and where to shop
I primarily shop through reputable vintage dealers, specialist Etsy shops with clear photos and return policies, department store vintage sections, and well-known auction houses that list condition notes. YouTube collectors often recommend checking maker marks and asking sellers for close-up images of back stamps and clasps before buying.
- Ask for measurements and a weight estimate to know how it will sit on your garments.
- Request macro photos of the back and the mechanism.
- When possible, choose sellers who provide provenance or a certified appraisal for high-value pieces.
How to style vintage pins in everyday life
- Layer with modern minimalist jewelry to balance vintage details with contemporary shapes.
- Pair smaller pins on lapels with scarves or brooch clusters; larger pieces work well on coats and closed collars.
- Use pins on bags or hats for unexpected placement.
- For workwear, choose refined metals and muted colors; for evenings, pick statement rhinestones or bold motifs.
Personal testimonials from collectors and YouTubers I trust
“I’ve got a modest collection and always come back to Trifari for that perfect mid-century gleam,” says a curator whose channel reviews costume-jewelry restorations. Another YouTuber told me, “Eisenberg stones photograph like diamonds—perfect for evening looks and editorial shots.” I’ve personally worn the Givenchy bee to client dinners and received compliments every time.
These testimonials reflect what I’ve experienced: small, well-made pins attract attention without needing an entire outfit overhaul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are vintage lapel pins fragile? A: Many are surprisingly sturdy, especially designer pieces, but rhinestone prongs, enamel, and plating can be delicate. Inspect and handle with care.
Q: How do I clean a vintage pin? A: Use a soft brush and mild soap for base metals. For rhinestones, a gentle wipe and avoid soaking; for silver, use a silver polishing cloth. Never use harsh chemicals on enamel or glued stones.
Q: How do I tell if stones are real? A: Ask sellers for gem testing or look for signs: glass and paste often lack the depth and refraction of genuine gems. For high-value items, request a gemologist’s report.
Q: Can I replate or restore a vintage brooch? A: Yes—replating and prong repair are common. Keep in mind that restoration affects value; document any changes and work with reputable restorers.
Q: How should I store pins? A: Store in soft pouches or compartments to prevent scratching. Keep wet environments and extremes of temperature away to protect enamels and adhesives.
Final thoughts
I’ve curated these nine pins because they tick multiple boxes: documented maker history, wearable design, and collector approval from top YouTube channels and specialist dealers. They show how vintage accessories can be both practical and poetic—tiny sculptures that punctuate your personal style. If you value craftsmanship, texture, and a hint of story in your wardrobe, these pieces are excellent places to start building a thoughtful, visually rich collection.