Rhinestone-encrusted Vintage-look brooches are hot. Fashion jewelry continues trending well as shoppers embrace paste rather than splurge on the real deal. The trend encompasses designs featuring everything from initials to dazzling starburst patterns, but the general rule of thumb is, if it ain't baroque--fix it. In many cases, items are outright gaudy, providing a quick update that distracts attention away from staid neutral wardrobes.

Oversized pieces that look like they came straight from grandma's costume jewelry collection were featured on runways from Perry Ellis to Prada. These brooches complement the 1940s-style looks coming down the pipeline for fall. Most of all, when assorting accessories departments, remember that it's hip to be square.