In this post – how to update your fall handbag looks with denim, chains and charms.
If you’ve been wondering what to carry as we head from summer into fall, I’ve got two words for you: denim bags. Seriously, they’re everywhere right now, and when you add some fun charms or chain details? Perfection!
The Denim Renaissance: From Casual to Couture
Luxury Brands Elevate Denim
Designers are treating denim as a luxury material, combining it with leather accents, gold or silver hardware, and structured silhouettes that make utilitarian fabric feel effortlessly chic. From stone-washed finishes to deep indigo tones, denim bags offer a perfect balance between casual comfort and fashion-forward appeal.
The best part is that you can find denim bags at all price points – from this gorgeous Madewell bag with its gold handle to a classic Ralph Lauren ID Polo bag.
A great smaller version of the denim bag look is this COACH Cassie Denim Top Handle Bag. There is also a small Essential Billfold Wallet to complete the look. This small crossbody would be perfect for travel.
This COACH Tabby 20 Denim Patchwork Quilting Shoulder bag is the perfect mix of funky and fancy. The pretty chain strap allows you dress it up or down.
In the luxury bag category, Bottega Veneta combines luxe leather with dark-wash denim for the all-American Andiamo tote. This isn’t your typical casual denim bag – luxury brands are elevating the material with sophisticated construction and premium hardware.
I’ve admired Bottega bags for a long time, as you can see in this post. Their denim Andiamo tote is top of my dream denim bag list!
Seasonal Transitions Made Easy
What’s so great about these trends is how they bridge that gap between looking put-together and feeling comfortable. Your denim bag works just as well with a flowy summer dress as it does with your fall layers, and chain details add just enough edge to keep things interesting.
Transitioning to Fall
As temperatures cool, denim bags prove their versatility by working seamlessly with layered looks. A structured denim bag with silver chain embellishments pairs beautifully with oversized blazers and ankle boots, creating outfits that feel both polished yet casual.
The Charm and Chain Revolution
From Runway to Reality
The trend first began on the 2024 runways at Miu Miu, COACH, and Balenciaga, where it debuted with bold flair, with sleek bags adorned with jangling chains and charms. What started as a runway trend has evolved into a full-blown movement that shows no signs of slowing down as we move through summer and into fall 2025.
COACH has continued to lead this trend. I love this Chain Tabby Denim Shoulder Bag. The medium-light denim color combined with the gold hardware is a perfect mix of casual and refined.
Chain Details: From Delicate to Statement
Chains continue to be a major embellishment trend, whether as decorative elements, functional straps, or accent details. From delicate gold chains that catch the light to chunky silver links that make bold statements, these metallic elements add movement and visual interest to handbag designs, as seen here on this gorgeous suede hobo bag by Chloe.
The versatility of chain embellishments makes them perfect for transitioning from summer’s lighter aesthetic to fall’s more substantial styling. I spotted these beautiful bags with on-trend chains at a Louis Vuitton store during our recent vacation on Maui.
COACH has a large selection of charms and chains to choose from. You can update a bag you already own with some of these embellishments and be right on-trend, as I did with this chain that I have added to my Brooklyn 28 suede bag from last season. This is a cost-effective way to update your bag and make a statement.
The Art of Personalization
You can add bag charms to “Birkinify” your bag and give as fun fashion gifts. Bag charms have become more than just accessories – they’re a way to personalize and customize handbags, allowing wearers to express their individual style and create truly unique pieces. I found more than a few cute ones from COACH. I love the snail!
What makes the charm trend particularly compelling is its emphasis on individual expression. You can collect charms that represent personal milestones, travel memories, or aesthetic preferences, creating bags that tell your unique experiences. The brand MAISON de SABRE is also having a moment with the popularity of their fun leather charms.
Style Combinations: Denim Meets Embellishments
Designers are increasingly combining denim with chain details in innovative ways. Think denim crossbody bags with chain straps, or structured denim pieces featuring decorative chain trim. These combinations feel fresh and contemporary while nodding to both punk and preppy aesthetic influences. This small Marc Jacobs crossbody bag has lots of interesting details, from the stitching on the front to the mixed-material strap and contrasting black leather around the sides.
Contemporary Styling: Making Trends Work
Summer Styling
During summer months, denim bags with chain embellishments pair beautifully with flowing midi dresses, creating an effortless high-low mix. The casual nature of denim balances more formal pieces, while chains add a playful element that feels perfectly suited to summer’s relaxed energy. This Spin Denim Tote by Chloe adds chic touch to a simple black dress and espadrilles.
Investment vs. Trend Pieces
While denim bags from luxury brands represent significant investments, the charm and chain trend offers opportunities to experiment at various price points. High-quality denim bags in classic silhouettes are worth the investment for their versatility and durability, while charm collections can be built gradually, allowing for budget-friendly trend participation. Louis Vuitton bags are known for their beauty and craftsmanship. Their chain and charm collections are fun and on-trend if you’re looking to splurge.
Looking Ahead
The convergence of denim bags and charm embellishments represents more than just fashion trends – they reflect a broader cultural shift toward authentic, personalized luxury that doesn’t sacrifice sophistication for everyday utility. As we move from summer into fall 2025, these trends offer the perfect combination of versatility, personal expression, and timeless appeal.
Whether you’re drawn to the elevated casualness of a luxury denim tote or the playful personalization of a charm-adorned crossbody, these trends encourage individual expression while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship expected from premium accessories. The beauty lies in their adaptability – they work equally well for casual summer days and structured fall outfits, making them worthy investments for any wardrobe.
There’s something so refreshing about seeing luxury brands embrace a material that’s been sitting in our closets forever and transforming it into something genuinely covetable. When Bottega Veneta starts making denim look this good, you know we’re dealing with more than just a passing trend!
The best part about denim bags? They’re practically foolproof. Throw one over your shoulder with a sundress in July, then pair it with your favorite fall jacket come October – it just works. And when you add some fun charms or chain details? You’ve got a bag that’s uniquely yours while still feeling incredibly current.
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2 Responses
I would love any of these bags. I loved the way you paired them with the outfits and accessories.
Hi Catherine! Me too! It’s tough to choose! Thanks!