Say Goodbye To Quiet Luxury Purses: The Novelty Bag Trend Is Infusing Fashion With Fun

While the quiet luxury trend that arose in 2023 has seen the popularity of demure logo-free designer purses, the novelty handbag trend is all about incorporating a pop of personality into your ensemble with something fun, playful, personalized, and even, as described by Tom Wambsgans in "Succession," "ludicrously capacious," at times. Odd and artsy pouch accessories have had a consistent presence in fashion history, being seen in everything from 17th-century purses shaped like frogs, to the still-beloved crystal minaudières from Judith Leiber.

Today, the reemerging trend has been seen on influencers across the web and red carpet celebrities, taking the form of adorable miniature animals and colorful geometric shapes. With this in mind, Women spoke exclusively to Denishio Murray, the founder and creative director of MURWAY, to get all the details about the fashion landscape's increasing affinity for interesting handbags. "I think consumers are ready to have fun with fashion again," he explains. "Quiet luxury reminded people of the importance of quality, restraint, and pieces that can live beyond a season, but that doesn't mean fashion always has to be anonymous."

When set against popular aesthetics like the aforementioned quiet luxury and controversial clean-girl, purses with unexpected textures or fun silhouettes offer fashion lovers an easy and different way to personalize their closet. "The strongest novelty bags still feel elevated," Murray continues, speaking to the novelty handbags that can elevate your look without feeling silly. "They give someone a way to express individuality without requiring an entire statement look."

Given its fashionable roots, the novelty bag trend naturally has plenty of fans in Hollywood. Not only have several stars been pictured with Valentino's hand-painted cat purse, but 2026 saw Paris Hilton stunning with a dog-shaped bag on her arm at the US Open and Jaden Smith sporting an eye-watering expensive dollhouse bag during Paris Fashion Week.

While celebrity inspo can provide just the push you need to pick up a unique handbag today, expert Denishio Murray tells Women that the key to adding an artsy accessory to your wardrobe lies in the heart of the trend. "Look for something distinctive that still feels like you," he says, warning fashionistas away from buying something just because it's strange. "The best statement accessories become signatures rather than one-season purchases." If you're going for luxury, make sure to brush up on the common mistakes to avoid when buying a designer handbag.

When it comes to styling, novelty bags easily work as an outfit's statement piece. "I like treating the bag as the punctuation of the look," Murray continues. "If the bag has a strong shape, texture, or color, the rest of the wardrobe doesn't need to compete with it." With this in mind, he recommends pulling out your favorite staples, such as reliable denim or a well-made coat, or pairing your novelty accessory with a monochromatic outfit. "Allow the bag to create the tension," he advises. For even more handbag inspiration, check out ways to embrace the rise of the colorful purse.