2025’s Must-Have: Sustainable Bag Charms and Keychains

Author - Rhea Malve

Bag charms and keychains are officially the hottest new sustainable trend for 2025! You may recall the iconic Jane Birkin, who was known for decorating her bags with a variety of tokens she collected throughout her life. This timeless, personal touch is making a huge comeback, and it’s not just for fashion icons anymore, everyone is jumping on the trend of accessorising their accessories. From sleek, elegant chains draped across bag handles to bold, vibrant keychains, these tiny details are showing up everywhere. Whether on the runways at major shows like Coach, Fendi, and Miu Miu or on social media, bag charms are proving that even the smallest touches can completely elevate your outfit. Jane Birkin’s signature style is now the go-to bag trend this year, adding a unique, personal touch to any purse or tote.

Let’s be real, fashion can be exhausting these days. Trend cycles are moving faster than ever, and keeping up with every new micro-trend can feel overwhelming. More and more people are stepping away from this chaotic, unsustainable cycle and focusing on improving their style in a mindful, conscious way. Instead of following every new trend, many are choosing to express themselves through thoughtful, timeless pieces that reflect who they are. That’s where bag charms come in, offering an easy, sustainable way to refresh your look without completely overhauling your wardrobe. Rather than contributing to the wastefulness of fast fashion, you can opt for small, meaningful accessories that have a new purpose.

Who knew bag charms would be storytellers?

Whether you’re adding a quirky set of charms from a flea market or thrift store, a vibrant scarf your grandmother wore, or even friendship bracelets from school, turning these sentimental trinkets into bag charms lets you tell your own story. And isn't fashion all about self-expression, and a fun, creative way to showcase who you are? By reusing and upcycling old accessories, you can bring new life into your wardrobe and make your bags feel truly one-of-a-kind. What a great way this is to elevate your personal style while being mindful of sustainability.

Celebrity-Inspired and Social Media-Approved: The New Eco-Chic Movement

The comeback of bag charms can be credited to the influence of celebrities like Dua Lipa, Gigi Hadid, and the Olsen twins. These fashion icons have embraced the trend and given it their seal of approval.

According to Barbara Janeczek, Lyst’s curation manager, “Bag charms are experiencing a cultural moment that goes far beyond simple accessorising. Right now, they represent a perfect storm of personal expression, micro-luxury, and social media-driven trend-making.

DIY or Designer: How to Nail the Bag Charm Trend Sustainably

One key aspect of this trend is how bag handles play a major role in elevating your bag’s overall look. You can wrap a scarf around the handle, drape a chain across it (which is perfect for adding even more charms), or attach keychains to the base. Some people enjoy perfectly matching their accessories to their bag’s colour scheme, coordinating every little detail, including the metal hardware. Others prefer to mix things up, choosing pieces that reflect their personality and individuality, regardless of colour.

If you’re opting for luxurious designer keychains or taking the DIY route to create your own sustainable bag charms, there’s no right or wrong way to accessorize. The key is making it your own, adding a personal flair that reflects your unique style. The best part? You’re not just following a trend; you’re embracing a sustainable, personalized approach to fashion that aligns with your values. By reusing or upcycling old accessories, you’re giving your bag a new life while keeping things eco-friendly.

No matter your style, we’ve got the perfect tote bags to kickstart your accessorizing journey. Choose from our Raffia Totes, available in two sizes, or our exclusive One Less x Akiiko tote, which comes in a set with a cap and is not sold separately.

Happy accessorising!