Make Some Noise This Summer With These 15 Bag Charms
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Maximalism has finally reached designer handbags. This summer, the It bag won’t be the bag itself, but how you adorn it. Bag charms are nothing new, but Balenciaga’s spring/summer 2024 collection sealed the deal on the trend with the brand’s exaggerated, loud, statement-making styling. Literally, these bags make noise with every ASMR-friendly jingle and jangle. Coach’s fall/winter 2024 collection continued the Y2K-era trend with New York City-themed charms and keychains, and now that summer is upon us, influencers and street stylers are throwing a charm on every bag they can find, from Balenciagas to Birkins.
The beauty of bag charms is that they can go on anything, and really, they can be anything. Just like in jewelry, charms are a way to express the multiple facets of your personality and interests. Obsessed with shells? Add one to your bag. Want some more bling for your ’fit that isn’t more jewelry? You’ve come to the right place. Love Disney characters? A surprise for you, below. It’s not about just one charm, either, though style however you please. This trend is all about the culmination of YOU as a wearer; a curator of sorts. What does your bag—and its many charms—say about you?
At ELLE, we’re serious about trends, but this might be the least serious (and most fun) one of the summer. To help get you started, we’ve pulled together some IG-worthy inspiration and gathered our favorite charm bags and bag charms—because they’re different, of course. Remember, it’s all about your own personal style, so have fun with it!
My DIY Charm Bag
I always love an accessory that’s a conversation starter, which is why I decided to test out the trend with a DIY charm bag of my own. I took a vintage purse—two, actually—and linked them together, along with some silly necklaces (Barbie shoes, oversized chain links, and a bedazzled shell) that fit the bill. This creation got plenty of compliments, so this is a reminder that anyone can do it with just a little styling and plenty of confidence. Need more convincing? Check out how industry insiders are wearing their bag charms, then shop below!
Shop Our Favorite Bag Charms
Le Cagole Small Sling Bag With Charms
Balenciaga is the brand to thank for this entire trend, so take notes. Locks, carabiners, keychains, and tags are all fair game.
Toile de Jouy Soleil Bag Jewelry
Yes, there are ultra-chic options for those who might not lean maximalist. This Dior bag chain could look great in the city or in Greece; take your pick.
Fuzzy Feelings Charmie Bag
One of the best things about bag charms is the accessibility. Since it’s a fun, flirty, youthful trend, it’s easy to get in on it with smaller designers that can help you customize your bag however you want.
Matchbook Mirror Keychain
A charm with function...what more could we ask for?
1969 Nano Embellished Bag
Paco Rabanne arguably invented ASMR-friendly bags complete with chainmail and bling, so naturally, the brand’s modern versions of the iconic bags are no exception to this trend.
Minnie Mouse Disney Bag Charm
We promised a surprise, and here you go. Minnie Mouse needs a poolside vacation too!
Lucky Charms Chain Flap Bag
For the secret maximalist, Chanel has you (subtly) covered.
Motif Chain Bag Charm
Coach is a great place to go for charms and bags to style them with...oops, did we reverse that?
Cluster Shell Shoulder Bag
The beach is the perfect place to test out the bag charm trend. With this L’Alingi bag, you could even take it further by adding more charms clipped within the raffia.
Story Chain Bag Charm
What’s the key to my heart? This locked-in bag charm.
Marmont Keychain
For when your purse just can’t hold it all...sometimes you need a supplemental purse!
Foodie Bag Charm
Downtown New York City folks know that Susan Alexandra is the place to go for funky bags and accessories, so of course the brand made the cut for this story!
Beetroot Charm
Loewe is an unlikely go-to for bag charms and silly doodads like this beetroot charm. Bonus points if you get the beetroot-scented candle while you’re at the store (my favorite scent ever).
Obsidian Lasso Bag Ting
String Ting doesn’t just make trinkets for your phone, but for your bag, too!
Giraffe Key Ring
Even if you’re not an animal enthusiast, you can’t argue with this ultra-cute giraffe charm. In fact, you’ll need to pick a name for him (for legal reasons, of course).
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