A Red Carpet Power Play
In the world of men's formalwear, where tradition often reigns supreme, standing out requires a deft touch. This year, many of television's leading men bypassed loud colors and patterns in favor of a more refined statement: the brooch. This wasn't just
a random smattering of sparkle; it was a deliberate and widespread trend. Actors like Paul W. Downs, Chris Perfetti, Colman Domingo, and William Stanford Davis all utilized pins and brooches to elevate their looks from standard to stunning. Downs, from the hit show 'Hacks', wore an archival David Webb Thistle brooch, a carved turquoise and gold piece that added a vintage touch to his Wales Bonner suit. It proved that in a landscape of meticulous tailoring, a single, well-chosen accessory can be the most powerful element of an outfit.
The Modern Tool for Storytelling
A brooch is more than just jewelry; it's a conversation starter and a vessel for personality. Take 'Abbott Elementary' star William Stanford Davis, who is developing a reputation for his excellent brooch game. At the 2026 Emmys, he wore a Dena Kemp blue sapphire and diamond dragonfly pin, adding a touch of playful elegance to his sparkling navy suit. Similarly, his co-star Chris Perfetti cleverly used a Mid-Century Diamond Flower Brooch from Beladora in place of a tie on his floral Wiederhoeft suit. And Colman Domingo, ever the red carpet innovator, pinned a magnificent Boucheron Green Garden brooch not to his lapel, but to the fuchsia sash of his custom Valentino ensemble. These choices show that men are increasingly using jewelry to tell a story, express individuality, and move beyond the rigid confines of the bow tie and cufflinks.
From Subtle Sparkle to Bold Statements
The brooches on display at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards varied as much as the men who wore them. 'Slow Horses' actor Christopher Chung added a Martin Katz rose-cut diamond sun pin to his tux for a subtle hit of sparkle. Derek Hough went for a more-is-more approach with a glittering brooch on the oversized lapel of his monochrome emerald green suit. Even musicians got in on the trend. Noah Kahan notably wore multiple brooches, including a vintage For Future Reference piece resembling a crying eye during the 'In Memoriam' segment, a poignant and memorable choice. Whether it was an Art Deco antique or a modern diamond creation, each piece served to distinguish its wearer, proving the brooch's versatility as a finishing touch.
Why This Small Pin Has a Big Future
The rise of the brooch in menswear isn't just a fleeting trend for a single awards show; it's part of a broader evolution. As men's fashion continues to embrace more fluid and expressive forms, accessories that allow for personalization are becoming more important than ever. A watch or a pair of cufflinks are standard, but a brooch is a choice. It signifies confidence and an eye for detail. It can be a nod to Old Hollywood glamour, a piece of wearable art, or a deeply personal token. It breaks up the monotony of a dark suit and draws the eye, inviting a closer look. While sharp tailoring and classic silhouettes anchored many of the night's best-dressed looks, it was the men who added that final, sparkling flourish who truly set themselves apart.
