How to Wear a Lapel Pin: Style Guide for Any Outfit
By Art of Play - Playing Cards, Puzzles and Amusements | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn proper lapel pin placement, pin etiquette, and styling tips for men and women. This guide covers how to wear brooches on jackets and bags with confidence.
Quick Answer
Wear a lapel pin on the left side of your jacket, aligned with the buttonhole or slightly higher. For blazers and suit jackets, position it on the lapel; for shirts or bags, any visible flat spot works as long as it's secure.
Why Placement Matters
Lapel pin placement isn't just about looks—it follows a subtle etiquette rooted in tradition. The left side is standard because it's the same side as the heart, and historically, a flower or pin there signified honor or allegiance. Today, it's simply the most visually balanced spot on a jacket or blazer.
That said, rules are meant to be bent. On a casual denim jacket or a tote bag, you can place a pin wherever it feels right. The key is to keep it visible without overwhelming the garment. A single pin on the left lapel works for most outfits; two or three pins can work on a structured bag or hat, but avoid clustering them on a small lapel.
Men vs. Women: Is There a Difference?
For men wearing a suit or blazer, the left lapel is the default. If your jacket has a buttonhole (called a boutonnière hole), that's your guide—place the pin just below or through it. Avoid the right side unless you're deliberately making a fashion statement.
Women have more flexibility because lapels on women's blazers are often narrower or absent. In that case, a brooch or pin can go on the left shoulder, near the collarbone, or on a scarf or bag. The same left-side preference applies, but a well-placed pin on a dress collar or cardigan also works beautifully.
How to Wear a Lapel Pin in 5 Steps
- Choose Your Pin and Outfit: Select a pin that complements the occasion and garment. For formal events, a simple enamel or metal pin works best. For casual wear, feel free to pick a playful design. All Art of Play pins come with a rubber backing, so they stay put even on thicker fabrics. Check that the pin's post length suits the fabric thickness—longer posts work for wool blazers, shorter ones for shirts.
- Position on the Left Lapel: Hold the pin against the left lapel of your jacket or blazer. Align it with the buttonhole if one exists, or place it about 1–2 inches below the collar notch. For shirts without lapels, pin near the left collarbone. Avoid the center of the chest—it looks unbalanced and can pull the fabric awkwardly.
- Secure the Pin Properly: Push the pin through the fabric from front to back. Attach the rubber backing firmly. For thicker fabrics like tweed or denim, wiggle the post gently to help it pass through. If the fabric is delicate (silk or thin cotton), pinch the fabric first to avoid tearing. Never force the pin—if it doesn't slide through easily, choose a thinner fabric area or a different pin.
- Adjust for Balance and Visibility: Stand in front of a mirror and check that the pin sits flat and straight. It should be visible when your arms are at your sides, not hidden under a lapel fold. If you're wearing a scarf or tie, ensure the pin isn't completely covered. A pin that tilts or spins means the rubber backing isn't gripping—try a smaller backing or reposition.
- Style for Non-Jacket Garments: On a bag, hat, or backpack, place the pin where it won't snag or get knocked off. For bags, the front flap or strap works well. For hats, the left side of the brim or crown is a classic spot. Avoid areas that bend frequently, like a bag's zipper track. Test the placement by moving around—if the pin catches on anything, relocate it.
Pin Options That Fit Any Style
- Art of Play "Logo" Pin: Features the Art of Play logo in black enamel with gold accents for a classic, refined look. The gold accents catch light subtly, making it a versatile choice for both formal blazers and casual hats.
Art of Play "Logo" Pin - Art of Play "Spade" Pin: This premium lapel pin features Art of Play's trademark spade in black metal coated with a brass finish. The brass finish adds a vintage touch that pairs well with earth-toned jackets or leather bags.
Art of Play "Spade" Pin - Art of Play "Key" Pin: This premium lapel pin features Art of Play's trademark skeleton key, a symbol of mystery, in black enamel with gold accents. The skeleton key design is a conversation starter, ideal for adding personality to a plain blazer or backpack.
