How to Wear the Bag Charm Trend

Words by Sophia Miller

We’ve all heard of the Birkin – the It-bag to rule them all, heralded as the ultimate beacon of style for three decades and counting. But while the Hermès icon will never lose its unflinchingly chic veneer, the muse behind the design its name took a far less polished approach. Strung with beads, trinkets and charms, Jane Birkin’s overstuffed tote was the inspiration behind the heavily accessorised bags carried down the AW24 Miu Miu runway. Just like that, the season’s biggest bag trend was born – and it didn’t require you to buy a new bag at all.

Fast forward to today, and the luxury favourites you already own can suddenly look fresh and exciting – bare, even – without a clutter of stuffed animals, monogrammed keyrings and hand-knotted cords clipped onto their handles. While there are a few tips and tricks to teach, there’s no one way to master the look. It’s all about personalising what you have with bag charms that tell the story of who you are, where you’ve been and what you like. It’s chaotic, colourful, and it’s nostalgic. Quiet luxury, this is not. But why be quiet when you can wear your life in the crook of your arm?

1. Choose Your Mascot

Perhaps it’s a prized Labubu or a Jellycat rendition of your favourite snack. Or perhaps it’s a stuffed animal keyring you’ve had since childhood, swinging happily alongside a leather Loewe Puzz charm. Whatever your lucky charm, wear it with pride – the kitscher, the better.

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2. Switch up Your Strap

Lean into the maximalist moment by adding another dimension of colour and texture. Swap out detachable straps with woven, logo-print or metallic alternatives, or go full eccentric aunt with a printed silk scarf artfully wrapped around the top handle. Suddenly, your It-bag is one of a kind.

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3. Try a Chain

Some of last season’s trendiest bag charms came courtesy of Miu Miu, where knotted paracord and carabiners were paired with chunky chains for a haute-hiking aesthetic that sparked countless TikTok recreations. Looking ahead, adding a chain or two continues to be a chic route for charm curation. Try looping a vintage necklace around your bag straps for an easy fix.

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4. More is More

The one rule of bag charm styling? There are no rules. Forget sticking to one colour scheme, practicing Coco Chanel levels of accessory restraint or second-guessing your charm choices. Just pick whatever trinkets speak to you, and string them on to your heart’s content. Eclectic imperfection is the name of the game, and the aim is to create a bundle that showcases your unique personality. No holds barred.