Bag charms are everywhere right now. From luxury designer collections to quirky indie brands, these little accessories are being dangled, clipped, and flaunted like never before. Some swear by them as the ultimate way to personalize a bag, while others (like me) often find them… messy.
Don’t get me wrong; bag charms can work, but they’re also a slippery slope into tacky territory. Whether it’s an overload of fluffy pom-poms or charms that completely clash with your bag’s vibe, it’s easy to see why this trend divides opinions.
And let’s talk about Labubu—the adorable little character that’s become a global obsession. From designer collaborations to collectible keychains, Labubu charms are everywhere. While undeniably cute, they’re not always the easiest to style.
Let’s break it down:
When Bag Charms Work
The magic happens when the charm complements the bag without overpowering it. Think of it as a finishing touch—like earrings for your bag. A minimalist leather tote with a sleek gold charm? Chic. A playful Labubu charm on a casual canvas bag? Fun.
Certain bag styles are also more forgiving when it comes to charms. Structured bags or those with clean lines (like a classic boxy crossbody) can carry a charm without losing their elegance. Similarly, monochromatic charms or ones that pick up on the bag’s hardware (like gold or silver tones) are usually safe bets.
Labubu, with its whimsical and quirky design, tends to work best on more relaxed bag styles—think backpacks, bucket bags, or casual crossbody bags. Adding it to an overly formal or sleek bag can feel jarring.
When Bag Charms Don’t Work
Here’s the deal: too much of a good thing is never good. A tiny bag weighed down by oversized charms? No. A designer bag adorned with loud, plastic keychains? Double no. And don’t even get me started on mismatched themes—like a formal bag covered in cartoon character charms (even if it’s Labubu).
The wrong choice of charm can cheapen the entire look of your bag (and outfit). It’s all about balance—your bag should shine, not get overshadowed by a cluster of dangling distractions.
What to Do When Choosing Bag Charms
Match the Mood:
Look at the vibe of your bag. Is it casual, formal, or edgy? Choose charms that enhance its personality.
Stick to a Theme:
Pick a style and stay consistent. If you’re going for minimalist metal charms, don’t mix them with bright, fluffy accessories—or even Labubu.
Mind the Size:
Proportion matters. Big charms on tiny bags look awkward, while tiny charms on oversized totes might get lost. Labubu, while charming, can sometimes be a bit bulky, so pair it wisely.
Consider the Color Palette:
Opt for charms that complement your bag’s color or pick up tones in your outfit. Labubu fans, go for designs that match your bag’s color scheme for a cohesive look.
Test It Out:
Attach the charm and step back. If it feels too busy or looks out of place, take it off.
What to Avoid
Overloading the Bag:
One charm is enough. Two, max, if they work well together. Any more than that, and your bag might start looking like a Christmas tree.
Clashing Styles:
Avoid charms that feel at odds with your bag’s design. For example, pairing a playful charm like Labubu with a sleek, professional bag is a recipe for disaster.
Cheap Materials:
Low-quality charms can make even an expensive bag look cheap. Invest in charms that match your bag’s quality.
Labubu and the bag charm trend are all about self-expression. If you love them, wear them! Just remember that less is often more. Treat your bag as the star of the show and your charm as the stylish sidekick.
What do you think of the bag charm trend—and the Labubu craze? Are you a fan, or do you think it’s a fashion faux pas? Let me know in the comments!
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