You don’t have to tap into the Labubu hysteria to know that bag charms are the IT accessory of the season. The reasons why are several — from a maximalist revival that’s rapidly replacing the now passé notions of quiet luxury, to a heightened sense of individuality and expression. As stylist Disha Selarka puts it, “In a world full of sameness and conformity, where every ‘IT’ girl is sporting the similar attire popularised by the same social media trends, bag charms are an interesting way to let a bit of your personality peek through.”

Disha Selarka

The juxtaposition of whimsical, even child-like charms with often sedate luxury handbags, which are typically the object of such arts-and-crafts-style decorations, can tone down their sedateness, and make them playful while still being posh.  If you’re exhausted by the constant stream of collectible plushies with devilish grins that is currently flooding social media and online shopping platforms, here’s a roundup of indie alternatives that are easy on the pocket while still being high on the swag quotient.