Jane Birkin set the bar high for the ultimate handbag customization with her carefree attitude and eclectic adornments, paving the way for a new era of bag charm enthusiasts. As she famously remarked,

“I always hang things on my bags because I don’t like them looking like everyone else’s.”

Jane Birkins, Birkin. Image courtesy: @thatsnotmyage

The resurgence of bag charms isn’t just dominating our TikTok and Instagram feeds. It’s also leaving its mark on the runways, with Balenciaga and Miu Miu integrating the familiar jingling of keychains into their Spring/Summer 2024 collections, evoking nostalgia for Y2K fashion.

Image courtesy: Balenciaga via Highsnobiety

Whether you’re opting to playfully dress down your Hermès Birkin or elevate a more affordable handbag from your closet with luxury bag charms, the choice is entirely yours. It’s a charm revolution, and we couldn’t be more charmed.

Image courtesy: @marianne_theodorsen

So, if your bag isn’t dripping with personality à la Birkin, are you really making a statement?

Charming Hermès

Hermès introduced one of the original handbag charms – the Cadena. Designed as an alternative to the lock on the Hermès Birkin or Kelly bags, Cadena charms added a touch of personalization. From 1987 to approximately 2010, Hermès annually released a Cadena design. Available in gold and palladium variations depending on the year, these whimsical charms quickly became a must-have for H enthusiasts. Perhaps some of the most sought-after Cadena designs over the years include the pegasus, elephant, shooting star, and snail.

Image courtesy: @e11paris

Still highly prized and collectible to this day, Hermès Cadena charms often command staggering prices on the resale market, fetching well over $1,000. However, this isn’t the last time we witnessed bag charms from Hermès. . .

Image courtesy: @e11paris

The First Rodeo

Jane Birkin famously embraced a carefree attitude when it came to customizing her beloved Birkin bag – decorating it with an eclectic array of stickers, beads, and everything in between. Hermès, however, pursued a different approach.

Image courtesy: @rinyks

In 2005, Hermès launched its refined series of luxury bag charms affectionately known as ‘Rodeos’. These meticulously crafted charms, resembling toy horses, are made from Milo lambskin and are available in a variety of color combinations. With options ranging from the classic Rodeo to the Rodeo Touch and the Pegasus, these charms come in three sizes – PM, MM, and GM.

Image courtesy: @the.life.of.niels

Since the initial introduction, Hermès’ charming lineup has continued to evolve and expand. Today, alongside the iconic Rodeo series, you’ll find a diverse range of charms including the Oran Nano, Mini Shopping Bag, Mini Kelly Idole Quelle, and the unique Petit H charm range, among others.

Along Came Karl

While Hermès’ luxurious Rodeo charms undoubtedly made a mark in the world of bag accessories, it was Karl Lagerfeld who truly propelled bag charms into a fashion craze.

Image courtesy: Vogue

Image courtesy: Vogue

At Fendi’s Autumn/Winter 2013 runway show, Lagerfeld introduced the whimsical Fendi monster charm. This fuzzy creature, dangling playfully from Fendi handbags, injected a playful flair into the brand’s signature leather goods. Lagerfeld’s creativity didn’t stop there – he later introduced Karlito, a fuzzy oversized imitation of himself to the fluffy lineup, during Milan’s Autumn/Winter 2015 show. Karlito quickly became a coveted accessory, sparking waitlists and igniting a frenzy among collectors.

Image courtesy: The New York Post

Today’s ‘Jane Birkinifying’

The ‘Jane Birkinfying’ trend has exploded in 2024. It’s no longer just a social media craze – it’s influencing fashion enthusiasts and A-listers alike. From Dua Lipa to Anne Hathaway, celebrities have been spotted embracing this trend, infusing their Hermès Birkins with a touch of personal flair.

Image courtesy: Vogue

Image courtesy: Vogue

Luxury handbags from the Hermès Kelly to the timeless Chanel Classic Flap, are saturating social media feeds, adorned with scarves, keychains, jewelry, and beyond. It’s a frenzy of creativity and individuality, and it’s gone viral.

Image courtesy: @ginevramavilla

What’s most exciting about this trend? The rules are: there are no rules. Embrace the freedom to mix and match brands, intertwine monograms, and let your imagination run wild. Picture plush toys seamlessly coexisting with Chanel, and memento keychains finding their place alongside the Hermès Kelly. It’s the ultimate low-commitment way of injecting a touch of personality into your handbag collection.

Image courtesy: @marianne_theodorsen

Image courtesy: @emilisindlev

Image courtesy: @sidselalling

Photo by the PurseBop Team in Paris 2024

Accessorizing Your Accessories: One Charm at a Time

Elevate your accessory game! While non-luxury bag charms coexist with the higher end, we’ve handpicked our top luxe pieces from our favorite brands. These are available to purchase now, adding some playful charm to your collection.

Image courtesy: @oh_chick

Anya Hindmarch

Enter the whimsical world of British designer Anya Hindmarch, celebrated for her vibrant and playful designs. With a myriad of charming options, each meticulously crafted in leather, Hindmarch’s ‘Anya Brands’ bag charms are infused with a delightful dash of humor.

Anya Brands Diet Coke Coin Purse

Indulge in a refreshing style with Anya Hindmarch’s Diet Coke Coin Purse. Crafted from metallic silver leather to mimic the iconic soda can packaging, this downsized version features a tassel-trimmed zip that reveals a small compartment for storing loose change. Priced at $445, it’s most certainly the most expensive can of Diet Coke you’ll ever have.

Image courtesy: Anya Hindmarch

Anya Brands Heinz Ketchup Charm

Ketchup or mustard? If you’re the type who can’t resist adding ketchup to everything, then you’ll love Anya Hindmarch’s quirky keychain. Crafted to resemble a sachet of the beloved condiment, this charm is made from Capra leather, complete with the ‘tear’ here symbol, and Heinz branding. Though it doesn’t contain condiments, use the gold-toned clip to attach it to any bag – just be cautious around hotdog stands! This charm retails for $275.

Image courtesy: Anya Hindmarch

Chrome Hearts

Chrome Hearts’ necklaces, pendants, and chains have offered a fresh departure from conventional ‘purse-purpose’ chains and charms. Unlike mass-produced bag chains, Chrome Hearts pieces exude a distinct style, making them a preferred choice for those seeking a gothic touch to their luxury bag – enter the ‘Chrome World’.

Image courtesy: @lovisaworge

The elusive world of Chrome Hearts can be explored in their boutiques, with pendants and chains sold individually – you can create your perfect combination.

Image courtesy: @lorihirshleifer

Hermès

There’s plenty more to Hermès’ handbag charm lineup than its coveted Rodeos. From minimalist designs to contrast with your Kelly to delicate exotic charms to sit alongside your Birkin.

Oran Nano Charm

Since many Hermès enthusiasts may already have a Rodeo charm or several, why not consider the Nano Oran? Everyone’s favorite summer sandals have been downsized into a micro iteration for your bag. Choose from an Epsom leather mini Oran priced at $690, or opt for the exotic Natura or Niloticus Lizard versions available for $750.

Image courtesy: @illa.happiness

Hermy Horse Charm

Part of Hermès’ ‘Petit H’ collection, each Hermy Horse Charm is a delightful surprise upon unboxing. Crafted from leather off-cuts otherwise not usable (i.e. scraps), the Petit H range offers a diverse selection of playful and creative charms. What makes these charms truly unique is that no two are the same. The Hermy Horse Charm is crafted in calfskin, with a silk twill cord, and retails for $335.

Image courtesy: Hermès

Image courtesy: Hermès

Goyard

Goyard may not be a brand that springs to mind when you think of handbag charms – however, the heritage French brand has expanded its offerings this springtime.

Vénus Bag Mirror

Reflect on the latest offering from Goyard – the Vénus mirror. Available in Goyard’s eleven iconic Goyardine canvas shades, ranging from timeless black to vibrant orange, you can opt for a bold statement or an understated look. This versatile bag mini-mirror comes housed in a Goyardine canvas and leather pouch, and features a removable leather cord, allowing you to tie it to your bag’s handle.

Image courtesy: Goyard

Louis Vuitton

For years, Louis Vuitton has been championing the bag charm trend, continually innovating and redefining its offerings. From delicate bag chains popular in the early 2000s, and fur pom poms, to the beloved Vivienne mascot. Today, Louis Vuitton’s charms take on a more creative twist, evolving into dual-functional mini pouches, miniature replicas of their iconic bags, and playful offerings to add a touch of personality to any bag.

LV Turtle Pouch

Launched alongside the nautical-themed Men’s Pre-Fall 2024 collection by Pharrell, Louis Vuitton introduces the LV Turtle Pouch Bag Charm. Crafted from the iconic Monogram canvas with leather accents, and a silver-tone snap hook, this turtle shell even doubles up as a convenient place to stash away your earbuds while on the move. Elevate your bag charm game with this cute companion, priced at $955.

Image courtesy: @mkch.4luxe

Monogram Craggy Eclair

From the exclusive collaboration between Louis Vuitton and Tyler, the Creator, comes the Monogram Craggy Eclair Bag Charm. Released within the Louis Vuitton Men’s Spring 2024 Collection, this fun accessory is almost good enough to eat. Made from Vachetta leather, it features the limited edition colored ‘Craggy Monogram’ as the ‘icing’. Complete with a chunky LV charm, the Craggy Eclair has a zipper opening to house your mini essentials, and is priced at $960.

Image courtesy: Louis Vuitton

Loewe

Loewe has long been a lover of bag charms. From whimsical felt animals to the iconic Loewe Anagram details, the brand presents a diverse array of designs.

Elephant Charm

Delight in the whimsy of Loewe’s iconic elephant design. Synonymous with Loewe, the brand presents a petite reinterpretation of its much-loved motif. This downsized elephant is assembled in calfskin and features a zip-top closure, and two ring fastenings for easy attachment. Currently available in New Candy pink and vibrant Yellow, the Elephant Charm retails for $490.

Image courtesy: @melissasoldera

Turtle Cookie Pouch

If Louis Vuitton’s Turtle Pouch isn’t to your taste – Loewe presents its alternative. Encased in blue and green calfskin leather, the Turtle Cookie Pouch features Loewe’s signature Anagram logo, adding a touch of luxe to its fun design. Complete with a zip-top closure, this mini pouch comes with a detachable leather strap, allowing it to be worn around the neck, as a belt, or simply carried by hand. Priced at $790, simply add your favorite bag.