Charms have always held a special place in the world of fashion, cycling in and out of style over the decades. Their charm lies in their ability to transform an ordinary outfit, bag, or piece of jewellery into something truly unique and personal through tiny, wearable trinkets.
Whether it’s a keyring from your favourite arcade, a trinket exchanged with a childhood friend, or a charm necklace gifted for a milestone occasion, these personalised items not only reflect your personal style but also add a playful, nostalgic element to your look.
The beauty of charms is their versatility—there’s no wrong way to wear them. Whether you prefer something cute and playful that brings a bit of fun into your everyday style, or something more refined and elegant that adds a sophisticated touch to an evening outfit, charms can match any occasion.
How to Wear Charms
With the resurgence of maximalism in fashion, it’s no surprise that charms are making a strong comeback. This trend is all about celebrating individuality and self-expression, allowing you to showcase your personal style through small but meaningful details.
You don't need to overhaul your wardrobe and become a maximalist to enjoy the charm trend. Incorporating a charm necklace into your outfits or attaching a few keyrings to your bag means you can join in on the trend while staying true to your personal aesthetic.
How to Choose Charms
One of the greatest joys of styling charms is the freedom to curate a collection that is unique to you. Charms are not just accessories; they are a reflection of your personality, experiences, and style. Here are some tips to help you choose and style your charms:
Keep It Personal
The most important aspect of choosing charms is making sure they reflect your personality and align with your personal style. Don’t feel pressured to follow every trend; instead, focus on charms that hold personal meaning, whether they’re vintage finds, sentimental gifts, or eye-catching designs that speak to you. This personal connection will make your collection more special and enjoyable to wear.
Create a Theme
If you prefer to wear a more neutral look as opposed to an eclectic outfit, consider grouping your charms by theme. Whether it’s a specific colour palette, a shared motif, or a particular material, choosing charms that complement each other will create a cohesive and intentional appearance. This approach ensures your charms complement each other, resulting in a well-thought-out look.
Balance is Key
When styling charms on jewellery, bags, or clothing, finding the right balance is crucial. Too many charms can lead to a cluttered appearance, while too few might feel sparse. Start with a few key pieces and gradually build your collection to achieve a balanced aesthetic that enhances rather than overwhelms your outfit. Start with a few key pieces and gradually build your collection, until you have a mix of charms that suit your desired aesthetic.
How to Style Bag Charms
Bags are a daily essential, but that doesn't mean they have to be boring. Adding charms to your handbag is an easy way to inject some personality into your daily look. Here’s how you can style bag charms:
Choose the Right Bag
The size and style of your bag should influence how you style your charms. Smaller bags, like crossbody styles or clutches, generally look best with a single statement charm or a few tiny trinkets. Larger bags, such as totes or shoppers, can handle multiple charms for a more eclectic, layered look.
Match the Mood
The style of your bag should influence your choice of charms. A sleek, minimalist bag pairs well with a few understated charms, while a larger, more casual bag looks great with a bunch of colourful, playful charms. Think of your charms as an extension of your bag’s personality—whether it’s minimalist, maximalist, or somewhere inbetween, there’s a charm style to match.
Placement Matters
Where you place your charms can make all the difference. Attaching charms to the zip or handle is the obvious choice, but feel free to get creative. If your bag has multiple zips, handles, or compartments, spreading the charms out can create a more balanced look. But if a maximalist look is what you’re after, clustering your charms together will make a bold statement.
Seasonal Changes
Charms are a great way to refresh your bag without having to buy a whole new one. Swap out your charms to reflect the time of year or for special occasions, matching the colour palette or theme. This simple switch can refresh your entire look, keeping your style current and seasonally appropriate. A dedicated charm clip, like a carabiner, will allow you to easily add or remove charms to match your outfit.
How to Style Charm Jewellery
Charm jewellery is a timeless and versatile way to enjoy this trend. From delicate enamel charms to bold pendant necklaces, these pieces offer endless possibilities for expressing your personal style. Here are some tips to help you style charm jewellery in a way that feels meaningful to you:
Start with a Base
The foundation of any great charm jewellery collection is a classic, simple base. Begin with a neutral piece that can easily transition from day to night, and build your look from there. You can add multiple charms to the chain, or layer them on separate necklaces to create a more customisable look. This approach gives you the flexibility to swap out charms or adjust your style as your collection grows.
Start with a Base
A classic chain forms the foundation of any jewellery collection. Opt for a simple, versatile necklace—such as a sleek satellite chain or a smooth snake chain—that acts as a blank canvas for your charms. This foundational piece provides the perfect base for adding multiple charms or layering with additional necklaces, allowing you to create a personalised look. It also offers the flexibility to easily update your style as your tastes and trends evolve.
Tell a Story
When choosing charms, look for pieces that hold personal significance. Whether they represent a cherished memory, a milestone, or a particular interest, each charm adds a layer of meaning to your jewellery. For example, birthstones and zodiac signs can celebrate your identity, while nature-inspired jewellery or travel-related charms can express your interests.
Mix Metals and Materials
Don’t be afraid of mixing metals when styling your charm jewellery. Pairing gold and silver charms can create a visually interesting style, while charms made from enamel, gemstones, or other materials add pops of colour and texture. This adds a modern twist to classic designs and enhances the overall aesthetic.
Layering is Key
Charm jewellery is all about layering. Start by pairing a shorter chain with one or two dainty charms, then add a longer necklace with a bold pendant for contrast. Mixing different chain lengths and charm sizes not only adds dimension but creates a personalised, curated appearance that’s both stylish and meaningful.