SPIRITED

Time To “You-ify” Your Bag

And redefine personal touches.

Let’s get personal, shall we?

Picture a blank canvas. If someone asked to make it “you,” what would you paint? What objects, textures, and feelings represent you most? Now picture that blank canvas as a bag…

I think you see where I’m going with this.

The it-girls and influencers of Tiktok, Instagram, and Pinterest have spoken: personalizing your bag is in. The most famous bag-personalizer, icon Jane Birkin, said it best: “I always hang things on my bags because I don’t like them looking like everyone else’s.” That is the beauty of this “you-ifying” trend; you can have the same style or silhouette as someone else, but when you start to add accessories like bag charms, purse scarves, and other trinkets, it becomes unique to only you. And what a statement that is – in an era of mass production, oversaturation, and overall “same-ness,” to have an everyday, essential item speak to your likes, personality, and overall aura.

I’m sure you’re wondering, “Where do I start?” Look no further, because we’re here to help you in your bag personalization journey – the materials (from bag straps, to pins, and even specialized bag charms) and all the tips to show you how to personalize your bag. Our team pulled four of our most-loved bags to style with the unexpected FP accessories that double as decorations:

LIFE OF THE PARTY

Up first is our beloved Idle Hands Sling, totally decked out and ready for a party. Statement accessories like this sheer organza claw clip can clasp right onto the strap for a head-turning touch (and quick updo-securing when needed). Our stylists got creative and put bow-adorned hair clips throughout, and finished it off with an oversized flower choker, attached to a glittery scarf for the perfect dose of sparkle. This pairing is perfect for your next holiday party, or for those with a tendency to go bold.

COTTAGECORE-CARRYING

This next iteration shows that no matter your style, there’s a bag personalization option for you! For more rustic, boho vibes, our We The Free Emerson Tote Bag is the perfect heritage-inspired style. Matching the vintage-esque aura this leather number gives off, we paired this once with more delicate accessories to give the final product some cool contrast. This rosette hair claw gives the strap a femme detail, and ties in the dainty rose and bow chokers, styled here as bag charms. Complete with a monogram locket, this sweet combo is perfect for the soft girls.

Tan leather shoulder bag with accessories.

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

CHARMED, I’M SURE

This rebellious silhouette suddenly has the most inviting “charm.” Literally. Our stylists completely adorned our super-roomy We The Free Minas Messenger Bag with our extended selection of bag charms. From cherries, to initials, and everything in between, these luxe leather charms are ready to really give your bag personality. In tandem with a cool clip keychain and a mini bow detail, this rough-and-tough style is completely reinvented into a quirky, eclectic extension of “you!”

OPPOSITES ATTRACT

Saving the best for last: our top-rated Hudson Sling Bag gets a total makeover, trading its staple heritage style for a fully femme-d out vibe. The metallic, gunmetal colorway provides an absolutely edgy base, while the floral hair claws and mini rosette clips play into a dainty sensibility. Finished with a statement heart chain, this final example shows just how much handbag accessories can transform a silhouette. From rebel to regal, this pairing is proof that you can truly take any design and make it match your style.

It’s as simple as that! And what’s more, all of these bag accessories are multifaceted, serving as hair clips, necklaces, etc. before (or after?) adorning your purse. Consider them a great personalized gift, or even a cool New Year's ritual, that allows us to redefine who we are.

Why not start with the thing you carry every day?

Happy bag decorating!