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Accessories09 Jul 20243 MIN

Bless this mess(y bag)

Are you ready for the Jane Birkin-ification of your tote?

One half-empty box of Ice Breakers. One multi-port adapter. Two charging cables. Two tubes of sunscreen. Three lip balms. One claw clip. One empty case for sunglasses. Dog-eared contact cards and folded-up receipts. One adorable doggy keychain that hangs off the zipper and a corporate lanyard looped around the handle. There’s a lot more, but even this partial inventory should convey the sense of chaos contained in my work tote that I haul across town every day.

As unglamorous as it may sound, such is the reality of a busy life. But if the spring/summer 2024 shows are anything to go by, messy, filled-to-the-brim bags with bag charms are actually on trend. At Miu Miu, models carried boxy unzipped handbags overflowing with everyday objects, adorned with colourful nylon cords, chains, and a leather dog collar hanging from the handles. Over at Balenciaga, we saw the new Rodeo carryall weighed down by a gazillion trinkets like tags, heart-shaped carabiners, heavy padlocks, and keys.

The inspiration? Jane Birkin, who was often photographed schlepping her own overflowing Birkin decorated with stickers, beaded strings, an Hèrmes watch looped around the handle, and other personal knickknacks. While we may not all have Birkins, there’s nothing stopping us from personalising our everyday totes with cute ornaments.

Scroll on to see The Nod’s picks.

01

Hermès Birdy Bag Accessory

If you have a neutral coloured tote, there’s no better way to add a touch of whimsy with a colourful birdy charm. Anne Hathaway has a pegasus. 

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02

Louis Vuitton Pop Flower Chain

Add some character to your favourite handbag with this chain that features monogram flowers and an LV initial charm.

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03

Tumi Voyageur Charm Pouch

No more digging through your bag for your keys. Tumi’s charm pouch can hold cash, cards, AirPods, and any other tiny essentials you may need. It also has a mini carabiner clip and a leather strap with a snap you can attach wherever you please.

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04

Samoolam Handmade Crochet Charm

A little birdy, little beads, a happy flower. Add a touch of boho chic to your bag with this crochet charm by Samoolam.

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05

Loewe Shrimp Charm

Although it’s a shrimp, this would make for the perfect gift for the lobster in your life.

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06

Coach Mickey Mouse Collectible Bag Charm

This charm from the Disney X Coach collaboration can be added to your keys or your zipper for a playful splash.

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07

Outhouse Poppi Personalised Charm

Crafted in vegan leather, this adorable flower-shaped charm has a heart-shaped clasp and an adjustable strap, and can be personalised with an initial.

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08

JW Anderson Suede Keyring with Crystals

It’s exactly what it looks like and would make for a fabulous bachelorette party favour.

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09

Bottega Veneta Triangle Keyring

This little keyring crafted out of nappa leather features gold hardware and comes in an array of colours.

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