Brooches are back

No longer a granny accessory, brooches are the ultimate pieces when a look needs a little extra oomph

- JOHN ROLAND LEGASPI

ILLUSTRATION BY NANCY MARIE AUDRIE

The State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2020 was a historic one. Apart from being held during the pandemic, what stole the spotlight for eagle-eyed Filipino fashion savants were the brooches worn by female political leaders during the event.

Dubbed the “Araw,” the brooch was produced by the Philippine Fashion Coalition, an umbrella organization of design professionals from various sub-sectors. It came in bone white and navy, featuring a half-sun silhouette and indigenous fabrics—not only representing Philippine heritage but also symbolizing the industry coming together during trying times. Needless to say, the brooch made a profound statement during the SONA, despite some attendees participating via Zoom.