This weekend the mustachioed Jacob Elordi broke the internet when he perched a tiny (leather) dog on a bunny-shaped bean bag. Let’s open this topic for those who aren’t interested in the Bottega Veneta Spring 2025 fashion show. Elordi, who was named brand ambassador in May, chose a tomato-colored Andiamo handbag to enhance his speckled cardigan and white basics at the show. But his playful Australian charm (mind you, chokers are always a little weird) paled in comparison to the braided little pet. Even fellow guest A$AP Rocky’s yet-to-launch colorful sardine tote bag was missing (as was his chicken-shaped sofa).
Elordi’s “John John” lanyard reflects the growing trend of bag accessories everywhere. As prices for leather goods continue to rise despite the recession, key chains have become the easiest way to enter the world of luxury brands. (For example, the Andiamo tote sells for $5,000, but that adorable dog clip costs $650.) While the Saltburn star’s gadgets look neat in their unique locations, Miuccia’s Spring 2024 trinkets follow Prada’s edict after the messy bag. Among editors in particular, there’s a trend to tie a handful of jingle-dong mementos to your bag’s handle to show off the loot of your latest adventure (the kitsch souvenir merchant is king) and announce your arrival (think jingle-dong tunes to your personal theme).
In addition to Mrs. Prada, creators of this playful accessory look include: Balenciaga (Demna believes “fashion should be fun!”), Coach (Stuart Vevers made a big bet on “I Love NYC” merchandise, and even London’s Stephen Bake). “It’s a way to interact with fashion in a personal way,” content creator and glamour enthusiast Heather Hurst recently told Askum Business. Personalized curation is key, she added. “When something becomes something that can be mass-produced, it becomes the opposite of basics.”
Don’t be like Miu Miu girl Gigi Hadid, who wore climbing cables, pearls and hearts on her yellow Arcadie, or Elordi and his canine companion, but be like Jane Birkin, who was the original inspiration for bohemian style and even wears stickers on her body while carrying her namesake Hermès handbag on long trips. Like the friendship bracelet movement, you can certainly join the trend by buying one, but authenticity is more important than any brand logo.
