10 Creative Ways to Wear Lapel Pins: A Complete Guide

Published on 21 June 2023 8 min read

3. Incorporate into Hair Accessories

7. Adorn Your Bags and Backpacks

Looking for stylish ways to wear your favorite lapel pins? You're in the right place! In this complete guide, we'll explore 10 creative ways to wear lapel pins that'll make you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or just want to add a touch of personality to your outfits, these tips will help you make the most of your lapel pin collection.

1. Mix and Match Materials

One of the most exciting ways to wear a lapel pin is by mixing and matching materials. By combining different textures and materials, you can create a unique and visually appealing look. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Metal and fabric: Pair a metal lapel pin with a fabric pocket square or tie for an eye-catching contrast.
Wooden pins: Wooden lapel pins have a natural, earthy vibe that works well with tweed or linen blazers.
Leather: If you have a leather lapel pin, try wearing it with a denim jacket or a leather accessory like a belt or bracelet.
Acrylic: Acrylic lapel pins come in various colors and designs, making them perfect for adding a pop of color to your outfit.

Remember, the key is to have fun and be creative with your lapel pin pairings. Mix and match different materials to find the perfect combination that suits your personal style.

2. Pair with Collar Clips

Collar clips are a stylish accessory that can elevate your look, and pairing them with lapel pins is a great way to add some extra flair. Here's how you can combine these two accessories:

Matching designs: Choose a collar clip and lapel pin with similar designs or themes to create a cohesive look. For example, if you have a geometric-shaped lapel pin, pair it with a collar clip featuring a similar shape or pattern.
Color coordination: If your lapel pin and collar clip have contrasting colors, you can create a visually striking combination. For example, pair a gold lapel pin with a silver collar clip for a bold, modern look.
Placement: You can either wear your lapel pin above or below the collar clip, depending on your preference. Experiment with different placements to see which one works best for your outfit.

Adding a collar clip to your lapel pin ensemble not only enhances your overall look but also shows off your attention to detail and sense of style.

3. Incorporate into Hair Accessories

Did you know that lapel pins can also be used as unique hair accessories? Don't limit yourself to wearing them on your clothes; try incorporating them into your hairstyle for a fun, creative twist. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Secure a ponytail: Wrap a hair tie around your ponytail and then slide a lapel pin through the hair tie to add a touch of personality and charm to your hairstyle.
Embellish a braid: As you braid your hair, weave a lapel pin or two into the strands for a whimsical, one-of-a-kind look.
Adorn an updo: Use a lapel pin as a decorative accent when creating an updo, whether it's a simple bun or an elegant chignon. Just secure the pin through a few strands of hair to hold it in place.
Clip on a headband: Attach a lapel pin to a plain headband to create a stylish, custom hair accessory that's perfect for any occasion.

By incorporating lapel pins into your hair accessories, you can add a touch of personal style and creativity to your everyday look or make a statement at special events.

4. Use as a Tie Tack

Why settle for a traditional tie tack when you can use a lapel pin for a more unique and personal touch? Lapel pins can easily be used to keep your tie in place while adding a fun, stylish element to your outfit. Here's how:

Choose the right lapel pin: Pick a lapel pin that complements your tie's color and pattern. It's best to choose a smaller, more subtle design to avoid overpowering your tie.
Position the lapel pin: Place the lapel pin about two-thirds of the way down your tie, between the third and fourth button of your shirt. This is the ideal spot for a tie tack, as it helps keep your tie in place without being too noticeable.
Secure the lapel pin: Pierce the tie and the shirt placket with the lapel pin's needle, then attach the backing to hold it in place. Make sure it's snug but not too tight, so your tie can still move freely.

By using a lapel pin as a tie tack, you can showcase your personal style while keeping your tie neat and tidy. Plus, it's a great conversation starter at networking events or parties!

5. Attach to Pocket Squares

Want to give your pocket square an extra touch of flair? A lapel pin can be a perfect addition! By attaching a lapel pin to your pocket square, you can create a unique and eye-catching accessory that sets you apart from the crowd. Here's what you need to do:

Select a suitable lapel pin: Find a lapel pin that matches or complements your pocket square's color and pattern. Remember, the lapel pin should enhance your pocket square, not overwhelm it.
Fold your pocket square: Fold the pocket square using your preferred folding method, such as the classic square fold, the puff fold, or the three-point fold. Make sure the folded pocket square fits neatly inside your jacket's pocket.
Attach the lapel pin: Once your pocket square is in place, carefully attach the lapel pin to the top corner or center of the pocket square, depending on the fold you've chosen. Ensure the pin's needle goes through the fabric without damaging it.

Adding a lapel pin to your pocket square not only elevates your outfit but also gives you a chance to express your personality and creativity. So, why not give it a try and see how it transforms your look?

6. Decorate Your Hats

Did you know that you can also use lapel pins to spruce up your hats? Whether you're wearing a baseball cap, fedora, or beanie, adding a lapel pin can give your headwear a unique touch. Here's how you can decorate your hats with lapel pins:

Pick the right lapel pin: Choose a lapel pin that complements your hat's style and color. You can go for a subtle design or a bold statement piece, depending on your personal preference.
Decide on the placement: Carefully consider where you'd like to place the lapel pin on your hat. You can attach it to the brim, the front, or the side — wherever you think it will look best.
Attach the lapel pin: Carefully push the pin's needle through the hat's fabric, making sure not to damage the material. Secure the lapel pin's backing to keep it in place.

By adding a lapel pin to your hat, you can showcase your style and creativity, making your headwear truly one-of-a-kind. So, why not give your favorite hat a makeover with a lapel pin that speaks to you?

7. Adorn Your Bags and Backpacks

Lapel pins aren't just for clothing — they can also add a touch of personality to your bags and backpacks. Whether you're a student, commuter, or traveler, here's how you can use lapel pins to make your bags and backpacks stand out:

Choose the right lapel pins: Pick lapel pins that reflect your interests, hobbies, or favorite colors. You can also mix and match different designs to create a unique collection.
Find the perfect spot: Look for areas on your bag or backpack where the lapel pin can be easily seen and won't get caught on anything. The front pocket or straps are usually good options.
Attach the lapel pins: Carefully push the pin's needle through the fabric of your bag or backpack, and secure it with the backing. Make sure not to damage any zippers or pockets in the process.

By adorning your bags and backpacks with lapel pins, you can show off your unique style and make a statement wherever you go. So, why not start accessorizing your bags with some eye-catching lapel pins today?

8. Wear with Scarves

Scarves are a versatile accessory that can be worn in various ways and for different occasions. Adding a lapel pin to your scarf can enhance its style and make it even more fashionable. Here are some creative ideas on how to wear lapel pins with scarves:

Secure the knot: Tie your scarf in your preferred style, then use a lapel pin to hold the knot in place. This adds a decorative touch and ensures the scarf stays put throughout the day.
Attach to the end: Let your scarf hang loose, and pin a lapel pin to one or both ends. This adds a playful touch and can help weigh down the scarf, ensuring it drapes nicely.
Create a brooch effect: Drape the scarf around your neck, and gather the ends together at the front. Pin the lapel pin through the gathered ends, creating a brooch-like effect that adds elegance to your outfit.

Experiment with different lapel pin designs and scarf styles to find the combination that best suits your personal taste. With the right lapel pin, you can turn your scarf into a unique and eye-catching accessory.

9. Enhance Your Jewelry

Lapel pins aren't just for clothing – they can also be a fantastic addition to your jewelry collection. By incorporating lapel pins into your jewelry, you can create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase your personality and style. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Upgrade your necklace: Attach a lapel pin to a simple chain necklace to create a custom pendant. This is an easy way to give new life to a plain necklace and make it more interesting.
Embellish your bracelets: If you have a charm bracelet, consider adding a lapel pin as a unique charm. Simply remove the pin back and attach the lapel pin to the bracelet using a jump ring. This is a great way to showcase your favorite lapel pin designs on your wrist.
Transform into earrings: With a little creativity, you can turn a pair of lapel pins into earrings. Remove the pin back and attach a hook or stud earring finding to create a custom set of earrings that are sure to make a statement.

By incorporating lapel pins into your jewelry, you can create personalized pieces that express your unique style. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with different lapel pin designs and jewelry combinations.

10. Create a Lapel Pin Brooch

Another creative way to wear lapel pins is by transforming them into a brooch. This can be an exciting way to combine multiple lapel pins into a single, eye-catching piece of accessory. Here's a simple guide on how to create your own lapel pin brooch:

Gather your materials: You'll need a selection of lapel pins, a brooch base or a large safety pin, and some jewelry glue or strong adhesive.
Arrange your lapel pins: Lay out your lapel pins on a flat surface and decide how you want them to appear on the brooch. You can create a specific pattern or go for a more random, eclectic look.
Attach the lapel pins: Remove the pin backs from your lapel pins and use the jewelry glue to adhere them to the brooch base or safety pin. Make sure to hold each lapel pin in place for a few seconds to ensure a strong bond.
Let it dry: Allow the glue to dry completely before wearing your new lapel pin brooch. This may take a few hours, so be patient!

Creating a lapel pin brooch is a fun and inventive way to wear multiple lapel pins at once. Not only does it allow you to showcase your collection, but it also adds a unique and personal touch to your outfit. So go ahead and experiment with different lapel pin combinations and make a statement with your very own lapel pin brooch!

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