The early 2000s hobby of handbag decor is back with a bang. If you are into bag accessories, gone are the days when a simple keychain could make your purse look unique. As someone who loves the classic backpack styling of a ribbon to be tied or a badge pinned to their canvas and totes over the years, I’m even also intrigued by the trendy “charmcore” that’s been everywhere.
So, I’m not saying you should get all these mentioned bag accessories but rather just take inspiration on what can make a great addition to your aesthetic!
Handbag Charms and Toys That Double as Bag Decor:
1. Gacha/ Gachapon
The name for these small collectible figurines from the Japanese vending machines has become the norm for not only Japanese Gen Z but for all the handbag accessories lovers. They are super cute and because one doesn’t know who will get inside the mystery box, the rush of completing a collection also adds to the excitement.
Yo Kono, Manager of the Gachapon Kaikan, a classic collector’s shop, comments on the rising trend:
“Gachapon used to be mainly figures, but recently they’re small items you can place around your computer or attach with a strap to your smartphone or key ring… They were also more geared to guys who were into anime, but younger females and ordinary men and women are getting into it.”
2. Trendy Toy Charms (Labubu, Crybaby, etc.)
Gen Z toys are making a big name for themselves, from the popular Sonny Angels mini figure charms of last year to the fact that it seems everyone wants a Labubu hanging on their bags. Now, the character toy bag accessories have become the IT thing in the industry!
Carol Davidson, an NYC-based image consultant, quotes what could be the reason behind the trend:
“Whether they’re adorning the ‘it bag’ of the moment or a thrift store find, Gen Zs and Gen Alphas see their bags as a blank canvas to display their personalities and personal style.”
3. Keychain Card Holder
Based on the latest trends and pictures I’ve seen of celebrities, the VSCO girl mini Sanitizing bottles have gone out the window, and their place has been taken up by personalized key card holders! These are not only practical but also super fashionable.
4. Luxurious Keychains
Yes, maybe I should include these keychains in the previously mentioned trendy toy handbag charms, but I believe those are more on the playful, Kiddy side, and the designs of branded keychains, such as by Coach, Miu Miu, and more, are different and, well, more expensive than normal ones.
Most popularly, you’ll see brands making designs of animals, foods, and hearts as their handbag charm accessories.
5. Beaded Strands
This is that quintessential cute thing girls have been decorating their bags with, starting from the iconic actress and model Jane Birkin to pop stars such as Lily Allen here, who is a perfect example of “Jane Birkin-fying” the classic Hermes bag.
What is Jane Birkin-fying? The TikTok Trend means making your handbag more personalized with bag charms, a scarf, and whatever accessories you see go with your personality and aesthetics.
The beaded strands are quirkier than the other forms of trendy handbag charms we have discussed here today but this may very well appeal to people with a fun style that turns your backpack Into a style statement!
6. Mini Furr Balls/Plush Toys
While we got into “Sonny Angel” bag accessories last year, the Mini plushies trend, thanks to Instagram and TikTok, has led to cute plushies such as Labubu and CryBaby having a major moment right now.
But even simple, non-character pom-poms or fluff balls are getting the attention of a lot of people. This must be as they seem to reflect their personality or vibe to the rest of the world.
7. Beaded Name Straps
This is one of those Pinterest DIY projects that was all the rage some years back, but the girly handbag decor has found an audience for it once again. You can easily make these straps yourself with your name or a word but the handmade creation is also a big sell for small business owners!
8. LED Trendy Handbag Charms
I believe this is the type of quirky handbag decor that will appeal to certainly those who value practicality with fun. These light-up keychains can generally be seen with a character or gag design.
9. Necklaces
Yes, you heard it right. Necklaces are not for your neck but for your bag. While scrolling the net for research, I found this underrated yet totally understandable trend where influencers are adding in their other accessories for a totally unique bag! Bella Gerard, an experienced fashion editor, comments on the same:
“Fashionistas on TikTok have gone so far as draping necklaces and bracelets around the handles of their handbags to further decorate and design… It’s all about emphasizing details for a creative, personalized touch.”
You can use the ends of necklaces/ bracelets in two ways, actually: one where you simply clip it on one side and the other when you add the clasp on one end and the other to the opposite side. Trust me, in the latter option, the image of your bag would totally change, as according to the size of the necklace, the purse would look literally and figuratively, Extra!)
Conclusion
I agree that popular handbag accessories such as ribbons and tassels are classics but just decorating with these are not in the rage nowadays. You can make them beautiful additions but the main star generally becomes the tiny plushie or the miniature toy hanging around the bag.
Again, these bag charms and accessories are just listed to get inspiration from to get you a curated idea of what’s out there. You do you and find the items you must get a connection with.
