Personalizing accessories and gadgets is by no means a novel idea (hello, beaded phone straps), but lately the trend has become more and more… unexpected. On TikTok and Instagram, users demonstrate how to give their girlfriends years of age sneakers second life using pearls, ribbons, bows, lace and more feminine details. And if you haven’t noticed yet, accessory bags have become the latest DIY project in the fashion pack. Connoisseurs and designers alike are exercising their imaginative powers by decorating bags with quirky (and a little silly) charms and key chains.
Always a trendsetter in the industry, Miuccia Prada arguably put her style on the map last October when she debuted handbags complete with chic gold chains and chic lanyards at the Miu Miu show in Paris. Meanwhile, Balenciaga opted for a slightly chaotic-looking bag filled with keys, locks, carabiners and other household trinkets. Then, next season at NYFW Fall/Winter 2024, Coach showed off immense Gigantic Apple-inspired decorations hanging from her handbags — think an apple, a taxi, and the Statue of Liberty. Sure, the combination of a designer bag and fun, kid-friendly pendants may seem a little, well, weird at first, but as luxury brands have proven, somehow it’s just He’s working.
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The fashion crowd has clearly taken notice of the runways, considering the trend was also seen on the sidewalks, especially during Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2024. Fun bag decorations (in the form of stuffed animals, clear jelly beans, colorful beads, etc.). ) have completely transformed the lavish bags of brands like Miu Miu and Hermès, adding a goofy, not-so-serious element of surprise.
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Not sure how to start styling your bag with charms and key chains? To assist you, here are five ideas. Affable reminder: when it comes to this trend, there is no such thing as over-accessorizing.
Oversized travel bag + pet accessories
Accessorize your demure black leather handbag with a statement accent, like a horse (the cowgirl aesthetic is still popular thanks to Beyoncé). Then consider adding some color to the look by adding a striking beaded charm. And if you miss your pup while you’re away from home (guilty), a tag with his face will be there almost make him feel like he’s with you all day long.
Weekend bag + quirky charms
This is the season to hit the road for a weekend getaway. And while you’re packing your bags, try attaching some cute key chains to your bag. Here, influencer Alyssa Coscarelli accessorized her casual leather bag with several striking key chains, including a mushroom, an 8-ball, a bunny and a panda. We might as well change the look a bit, right?
Brown shoulder bag + pearls
Of course, your bag doesn’t have to be covered in weird charms. For a bolder take on the emerging look, pair a polished strand of pearls with a chic brown shoulder bag. Style Idea: Up the ante by adding luxurious gold jewelry to your outfit.
Structured bag + rainbow beads
I love using the bead set (Susanna Aleksandrabox is too good) to design your own necklaces and bracelets? If so, you’re already following the trend. But instead of jewelry, try creating a multi-colored bag charm with your initials or favorite word. A Hello Kitty keychain will also be a cute addition to a red bag in the shape of a fire truck.
Box bag + elegant keychains
Influencer Leia Sfez made a splash at PFW last season with her eye-catching bonus moment. She paired a luxurious black Hermès Kelly bag with several statement key chains, and the most eye-catching look was the I Heart NY bag and a green, red and white car.
