The Birkin Effect: Charms are Taking Over

Charms, chains, and scarves as decorative elements are taking over the internet in a trend called "Birkinifying". Creators are embracing a maximalist approach to accessorizing, drawing inspiration from the iconic Jane Birkin style— a trend that's now extending to footwear as well.

Many have looked up to Birkin as a style icon, and this trend isn’t any different. There are plenty of images of Birkin carrying around a Hermes Birkin with beads, scarves, stickers, and keychains tied around the handles. These adornments reflect her free-spirited personal style, and incorporating elements unique to you will have the same effect.

All over TikTok, creators are embellishing their low-end to high-end bags with various items to showcase their personal style. This can transform the “it” bag of the season into something unique. For example, while everyone seems to be carrying the Balenciaga City Bag, incorporating standout pieces can transform this overexposed accessory into something idiosyncratic. 

Birkinified purses have also appeared in Coach Resort 2025, Coach Fall 2024, and Bottega Veneta Spring/Summer 2025. Coach Resort 2025 had ornament-like charms of jack-o-lanterns, gingerbread men, dinosaurs, and six-sided dice, there were vintage toy cars, and I ❤️ NY coffee mugs. Coach Fall 2024 featured NYC memorabilia such as the Statue of Liberty, candy red apples, toy taxis, and NYC postcards. Bottega Veneta Spring/Summer 2025 showcased an array of colorful crocheted flowers.

At Milan, Rave Review Spring/Summer 2025 collaborated with Puma, where the sneakers drew inspiration from this charm trend. The customized Puma Speedcat shoes were accessorized with beads, buttons, and ribbons. Similarly, online we’ve been seeing creators add chains and ribbons to cowboy boots.

The Birkinifying trend allows participants to explore their individuality and find a use for their discarded tchotchkes. In the digital age, personal style and personalization are highly valued in the fashion community, and this trend perfectly caters to both.