by Matt von Holtz.
Spring Handbag Refresh, Learn to Accessorise like a Pro
There’s a quiet buzz about giving accessories a lift without splashing out on new gear. Handbags are right at the heart of it, not by replacing them every season, but by tweaking what’s already in your wardrobe. It’s those small, clever extras (think straps, charms, or a sneaky organiser) that can turn a basic tote into something that fits the office, a brunch, or a proper night out. The high street’s full of options, and even designer names are in on the act with bits to make your bag stand out. Here’s how to get stuck into accessorising, with idea options from both ends of the scale.
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Keep It Sleek and Sorted for the Office
When you’re juggling deadlines and coffee runs, your bag’s got to pull its weight without looking like a mess. Here’s how to keep it sharp.
Swap in a Sleek Strap – Trade that tired old strap for something crisp. A wide leather one in mauve or maple screams “put-together” check out this Furla Sfera leather strap, or go luxe with this Mulberry adjustable strap.
Furla
Sfera Toni Mauve Leather Strap – £115
Mulberry
Debossed Logo Maple Leather Strap – £325
Accessorise with a Minimalist Charm – A tiny metal charm, like this Pandora charm holder, clips on for a low-key personal vibe that won’t clash with your work look, then add your favourite Pandora charms.
Pandora
Small Bag Charm Holder – £80
Stay Organised with a Pouch – Stop fishing for your pens in front of your boss. A sleek organiser, like Elizabeth Scarlett cherry frill pouch, keeps it all in check. Or treat yourself to this Aspinal of London leather organiser.
Elizabeth Scarlett
Cherry Frill Pouch – £38
Aspinal of London
Ella Foiled-Text Racing Green Leather Organiser – £85
Add a Splash of Fun for Brunch
Weekends are for chilling, and your bag should vibe with that. Think playful and easy-going.
Tie on a Scarf – A bright scarf twisted around the handle is pure spring energy. This ASOS floral scarf does the trick cheap, or level up with a Liberty London silk scarf.
ASOS Design
Medium Scarf in Floral Print – £12
Liberty London
Peace Love and Libery Silk Scarf – £185
Clip on a Charm – Something chunky, like this River Island pom-pom, adds instant fun. For a designer flex, try this Bottega Veneta dog charm.
River Island
Pink Pom Pom Floral Bag Charm – £9
Bottega Veneta
Black and White Dog Charm – £530
Brighten Up with a Bold Strap – A colourful canvas strap shakes things up—grab this New Look brown striped strap on a budget, or splurge on this Marc Jacobs outline logo webbing strap.
New Look
Brown Stripe Bag Strap – £7.99
Marc Jacobs
The Outline Webbing Rose Logo Strap – £105
Go Bold or Go Home for Nights Out
When the sun dips and you’re out for the night, your bag needs to turn heads. Here’s how,
Switch to a Chain Strap – A chain screams evening vibes. This Oliver Bonas gold bag chain is a no-brainer, or go big with this Loewe chain strap.
Oliver Bonas
Paddie Gold Chain Crossbody Strap – £25
Loewe
Donut Gold Chain Bag Strap – £375
Pin on a Brooch – A sparkly bit, like this Swarovski crystal pearl brooch, pinned to your bag adds just enough glam.
Swarovski
Crystal Pearl, Pink Flower Gold Plated Brooch – £179
Add a Statement Charm – For some attitude, clip on this Prada pink teddy-bear bag charm. It’s cute and brilliant.
Prada
Pink Teddy-Bear Bag Charm – £540
Make It Yours by Mixing It Up
Why stop at one? Layering is where it’s at..
Strap + Charm – A Mulberry leather strap plus a Pandora charm = polished with a twist.
Scarf + Brooch – Knot a Liberty scarf and pin a Swarovski brooch through it—brunch-ready in a flash.
Chain + Pouch – An Oliver Bonas chain strap with an Aspinal of London pouch inside keeps your night-out bag sleek and sorted.
Spring’s screaming for a refresh, and your handbag’s begging to play along. Whether you’re digging out old scarves or splashing on a designer charm, these tweaks can totally transform your vibe. From high street bargains to fancy splurges, you’ve got options. Have a go, mix it up, and see where it takes you!
See the latest editorial for more luxury bags here: “2025’s Most Wanted Designer & Indie Handbags”
*Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
