Bows have reigned supreme throughout 2024, adorning everything from dresses to hair and shoes, however, as the fashion landscape prepares for 2025, a new accessory is poised to take centre stage: charms.
Experts believe the trend is a broader celebration of individuality and self-expression, predicting to see them even on clothing and shoes.
“Charms are smaller, more personal and way easier to wear on the daily. This is perfect for millennials and Gen Z, who are all about self-expression, authenticity and accessories that actually mean something.
“Whether it’s a tiny mushroom charm for your cottagecore vibe or a celestial moon pendant for your inner dreamer, in 2025, the best fashion statements will come in small packages,” shares Blake Asaad, the founder of Goodstone, a leading provider of crafted diamond jewellery.
Charm Bracelets 2.0
This year will see the traditional staple, charm bracelet receive a modern makeover.
Gone are the clunky chains weighed down by random trinkets, the future of charm bracelets is sleek and modular.
Asaad elaborates: “Picture delicate chains with interchangeable charms you can clip on and off as if they were little fashion mood rings.
“Feeling beachy today? Pick out the seashell and starfish charms. Big meeting tomorrow? Go for a minimalist set with your initial and a polished stone.”
This innovative update allows wearers to tailor their look to their personal style or mood.
How to wear it: Stack multiple modular charm bracelets for a layered effect or opt for a single delicate option with just a few meaningful charms.
Layered Stories
Charm necklaces are transitioning from summer novelty to year-round essentials.
Asaad predicts: “Instead of the classic single charm hanging from a thin chain, expect more layered necklaces featuring clusters of tiny treasures.”
The focus shifts to storytelling through charm collections that represent personal experiences or interests.
How to wear it: Combine various chain lengths and position your charms at different points to create a purposeful yet effortless aesthetic.
Bags with personality
Bags are evolving into canvases for charm expression.
Large tassel charms can hang from tote zippers or small trinkets can be attached to bag straps, adding a distinctive flair.
“Luxury brands are already embracing this trend, incorporating built-in charm hooks in designer bags,” Asaad shares.
How to wear it: Choose a standout charm or cluster several smaller charms along your bag strap for a personalised touch.
Walk this way!
“Shoe charms are emerging as one of the freshest ways to wear this trend,” says Asaad, envisioning everything from stars to miniature lock-and-key charms swinging as you walk.
These removable accessories allow wearers to reinvent their trainers whenever they feel like it.
How to wear it: Subtle metallic charms can enhance classic white sneakers, while bold designs can add a punch to colourful footwear.
The magic of charm-enhanced clothing
The charm phenomenon isn’t confined merely to accessories, it extends into clothing.
“Imagine tiny metallic charms sewn along the hem of your favourite denim jacket or hanging from a jeans belt loop,” Asaad suggests.
Zippers are becoming prime real estate for charms, transforming basic designs into eye-catching statements.
How to wear it: Seek out statement jackets adorned with charm-lined pockets or clip-on charms to hoodie strings for an effortless, cool detail.
Tiny tokens with big meanings
At the heart of the charm resurgence lies storytelling.
“In 2025, expect an explosion of deeply personal charm designs,” anticipates Asaad.
Themes surrounding zodiac signs, birthstones and special mementoes will fuel charm collections.
How to wear it: Start with one charm that holds significant meaning to you and gradually enhances your collection.
Asaad added that charms offer a refreshing way to stand out in a world dominated by fast fashion.
“Each tiny piece feels like a story waiting to be told - a favourite city, a meaningful date, a zodiac sign.
“People are searching for pieces that resonate with their identity. Charms are fun, playful, and versatile, allowing anyone to curate their collection based on personal expression.”