As I was heading to the office one day, I noticed a man confidently striding along with a deep brown, stiff office bag that exuded undeniable boss vibes. But what truly caught my attention was the charming little detail that lit up my day: a small crocheted bee dangling from his bag. This delightful accessory is a perfect example of how bag charms have taken over the streets in 2024, becoming one of the most endearing trends of the year.
Bag charms have blossomed into a vibrant fashion statement, transforming handbags into personalised canvases of self-expression. This playful trend, which gained momentum in late 2023, signifies from minimalist aesthetics to maximalist styles, allowing individuals to showcase their unique tastes and nostalgic memories.
The revival of bag charms can be traced back to various cultural influences, but more particularly to the late Jane Birkin, who famously adorned her Hermès bags with an array of charms and stickers. Following her passing in 2023, the fascination with these accessories surged. It resonates deeply with Generation Z as they embrace DIY customization and playful accessorising, reflecting a growing desire for personal touches in fashion.
It is for good reason, then, that on social media platforms like TikTok, the trend has been dubbed “Jane Birkinfying,” – where users creatively embellish their bags with an array of charms and trinkets. This movement encourages individuals to draw inspiration from their surroundings—childhood memories or quirky souvenirs—making each bag reflect a personal history and style. Bag charms have become more than just accessories; they are storytelling tools. Wearers attach sentimental items or fashionable trinkets to their bags and carry pieces of their identity with them. This emotional connection enhances the allure of bag charms, making them essential for those looking to stand out in a sea of uniformity.
Fashion houses have also enthusiastically embraced this trend. Designers like Jonathan Anderson showcased whimsical fruit charms in their Spring/Summer 2025 collections, while Prada introduced its playful lollipop holder charm—embodying the spirit of fun and creativity. Meanwhile, Hermès continues to enchant with its iconic horse charm, a nod to equestrian elegance that adds a touch of sophistication to any bag.
At recent fashion weeks in cities like Copenhagen, New York, and London, attendees have been spotted sporting bags adorned with everything from Rubik’s cubes to plush animals. Some embrace a “more-is-more” philosophy by layering multiple charms, while others opt for minimalism with a single elegant piece. This eclectic mix highlights how a small accessory can transform even the simplest bags into statements of individuality.
As consumers increasingly seek ways to express individuality amidst fast-paced trends, bag charms offer a delightful avenue for self-expression and fun in fashion. Whether through whimsical plushies or chic designer pieces like Prada’s lollipop holder or handmade DIY charms, these accessories invite everyone to join in on the fun of uniquely accessorising their bags. Brb, finding cute charms for my bag as well!
