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Ever looked at your outfit and felt like something was missing? That’s where enamel pins come in! These tiny but powerful accessories can instantly add personality, creativity, and a touch of uniqueness to your look. Whether you want to keep it subtle or go all out with a pin-covered jacket, there’s no wrong way to wear them.
But where exactly should you put enamel pins? How do you style them without overdoing it? In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to wear enamel pins and creative enamel pin display ideas to help you make the most of your collection.
Where to Wear Enamel Pins？
1. Jackets – A Timeless Favorite
Jackets are one of the most popular and versatile places to wear enamel pins. Whether it’s a denim jacket, leather jacket, bomber, or blazer, you can easily customize your outerwear with pins.
- Lapel & Collar: A single pin on the lapel keeps things subtle, while multiple pins can create a bolder statement.
- Cuffs & Sleeves: If you want something different, place small pins on your cuffs or down the sleeve for a cool, unexpected touch.
- Pockets: A pin on the pocket makes a simple yet stylish statement.
- All-Over Look: If you’re a collector, go big! Cover your jacket in pins for a fun, artsy aesthetic.
💡 Style Tip: For leather jackets, place pins on the lapels or shoulders to enhance the edgy vibe without damaging the material.
2. Hats – Small Space, Big Impact
Hats are a fantastic way to show off your pins without overcrowding your outfit. Whether you’re into beanies, baseball caps, or bucket hats, there’s plenty of room to get creative.
- Beanies: Pin them on the front, side, or even the back for a unique touch.
- Baseball Caps: A large statement pin on the front or a few small ones on the side can elevate your cap game.
- Bucket Hats: Spread out multiple pins to create a bold, customized design.
💡 Style Tip: If you’re worried about pins falling off, use locking pin backs for extra security.
3. Bags & Backpacks – A Moving Canvas
Your bag or backpack goes everywhere with you, making it a prime spot for enamel pins.
- Backpack Straps: Add pins along the strap for a stylish yet subtle look.
- Zipper Area: Placing pins near the zipper or on the top flap makes them more visible.
- Tote Bags & Purses: Decorate the fabric areas or attach pins to the handles for a chic touch.
💡 Pro Tip: Bags move a lot, so use locking pin backs to keep your pins secure!
4. Shirts – Keep It Subtle or Bold
Shirts aren’t just for prints and embroidery—enamel pins can make them stand out too!
- Collars: A small pin on each side of the collar adds a touch of charm.
- Cuffs: Turn enamel pins into cufflinks for a creative, polished look.
- Chest Area: A single pin on the left or right chest can add personality to a plain shirt.
💡 Style Tip: Want a preppy look? Go for matching pins on both collar points for a balanced and elegant touch.
5. Suits – Professional but Playful
Want to keep things classy while still showing off your personality? Enamel pins are a great addition to suits and blazers—as long as you place them strategically.
- Left Lapel: The standard and most professional placement for enamel pins on suits.
- Pocket Edge: A pin near the pocket square can add an interesting twist.
- Tie: A small pin near the tie knot is a subtle but stylish detail.
💡 Pro Tip: For formal settings, stick with simple, elegant pins in metallic tones.
6. Belts – A Unique Twist
Your belt doesn’t have to be just a functional accessory—it can be stylish too!
- Belt Holes: Attach enamel pins through unused belt holes for a quirky look.
- Belt Buckle: Secure a pin near the buckle for an eye-catching statement.
- Belt Loops: If your belt has loops, slide a pin through for added detail.
💡 Style Tip: This works best with wide fabric belts or leather belts with small holes.
7. Lanyards – Personalize Your Everyday Look
Lanyards are a perfect place for pins, especially for work badges, school IDs, or convention passes.
- One Big Pin: A single, bold pin can be a focal point.
- Multiple Pins: Cover your lanyard with small enamel pins to showcase your style.
💡 Pro Tip: Use rubber pin backs for comfort since lanyards rest against your skin.
8. Overalls & Suspenders – Retro & Fun
Overalls and suspenders are already stylish, but a few pins can take them to the next level!
- Straps: Line up pins along the length of your overall straps or suspenders.
- Pockets: Add a pin to the front pocket for a playful detail.
💡 Style Tip: Avoid placing pins where they’ll rub against your shoulders—this can be uncomfortable.
9. Shoes – A Bold Fashion Statement
Yes, enamel pins on shoes are a thing! They work best on canvas sneakers, slip-ons, and loafers.
- Near the Laces: Attach a pin near the eyelets or laces for an unexpected detail.
- On the Sides: A pin on the side of a sneaker can be a conversation starter.
💡 Pro Tip: Use magnetic pin backs if you don’t want to poke holes in your shoes.
10. Pet Collars & Accessories – Because Pets Deserve Style Too!
Why should humans have all the fun? Give your pet’s collar, leash, or bandana some personality with enamel pins.
💡 Safety Tip: Make sure the pin is securely attached so it doesn’t fall off and pose a choking hazard.
Final Thoughts
Enamel pins aren’t just accessories—they’re a way to express yourself! Whether you keep it minimal with one pin on your suit lapel or go all out with a pin-covered denim jacket, there’s no limit to how you can style them.
Ready to build your collection? Start experimenting with different placements and have fun mixing and matching your enamel pins!
FAQs
Q: How to make enamel pins stay on?
To keep enamel pins secure, use locking pin backs instead of standard rubber or butterfly clutches. Locking backs prevent pins from falling off, especially on bags, jackets, and hats. If you’re worried about movement, you can also add a drop of clear nail polish or super glue to the pin post for extra grip.
Q: How to wear enamel pins without ruining clothes?
If you don’t want to poke holes in delicate fabrics, try using magnetic pin backs instead of traditional pin posts. Another option is to attach pins to thicker materials like lapels, denim, or bags that won’t show damage as easily. You can also sew a small piece of fabric on the inside of your clothing to reinforce the pin placement.
Q: Where should I put my enamel pins?
You can wear enamel pins on jackets, hats, bags, shirts, suits, belts, lanyards, and even shoes! If you want a unique look, try placing them on collars, cuffs, or pockets. For a bold statement, cover an entire backpack or denim jacket with pins.
Q: How do people display enamel pins?
Many people display their enamel pin collection on pin boards, cork boards, fabric banners, or framed shadow boxes. If you want a portable option, use a pin display book or arrange them on a denim jacket or bag that you don’t wear often. Some collectors also use embroidery hoops or felt banners to showcase their favorite designs.
Q: How do you permanently attach enamel pins?
To attach enamel pins permanently, you can use industrial-strength glue or epoxy resin on the pin post before securing the back. Another option is to solder the pin post directly onto metal surfaces. Keep in mind that making a pin permanent means you won’t be able to remove or reposition it later.
