A quick glance around my tube carriage this very morning confirms two things. Firstly, Labubus are still taking over. And second, they’ve been joined by a new arrival. Yes, swinging from the handbags of the masses appears a fresh new status symbol. This time? It's the not-so-humble beauty charm.
Unlike their furry-faced predecessors, these newcomers are actually incredibly chic. Need proof? Just look to Acqua di Parma’s leather perfume holder - it's a perfect example of beauty meeting craftsmanship. Then there’s Glossier’s Banana Balm charm, which treads the line between playful and practical.
So, whether you’re keeping things feeling high-end and minimalist or leaning into a more fun and playful aesthetic, there’s a beauty charm for all. And with luxury brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton getting in on the act, we predict these tiny treasures are set to swing all summer long.
Here's our Grazia approved edit of the best.
Shop: The Best Beauty Bag Charms
www.acquadiparma.com
Crafted in Italy, this exquisite handmade leather case makes the perfect gift for the person who seemingly has it all. Designed to house an Acqua di Parma fragrance, it clips neatly onto the side of your handbag- serving as a charm that embodies quiet luxury. Available in a range of colours, including vibrant orange and zingy blue, consider this the crème de la crème of beauty charms.
Pros
- Beautifully crafted
- Available in several colours
Cons
- Still a considerable investment
uk.louisvuitton.com
Nothing could elevate an outfit quite like this LV monogrammed hair clip meets bag charm - made with hardy plexiglass, it's durable as it is chic. Remove the gold hair chain to make for the perfect hair clip, then, when you're done, hook it back onto the bag again. Gorgeous!
Pros
- Durable material
- Comes beautifully wrapped
- Removable chain
Cons
- Still a considerable investment
John Lewis & Partners
Housed in a jewel-like case, the Chic Mono Eyeshadow is fully customisable. Simply purchase it alongside Carolina Herrera’s iconic bangle, then add as many tassels and charms as your heart desires. The general consensus among Herrera fans? The more, the merrier. As for the eyeshadow itself, expect a silky-soft matte finish that stays put from desk to drinks.
Pros
- Long lasting eyeshadow
- Numerous charm options to add
- Availble in many coloiurs
Cons
- Don't drop it - will crack
www.johnlewis.com
Delicate, elegant and feminine, this is the perfect addition to an evening clutch. Composed of a luminous string of pearls and a glinting, golden chain, it's the perfect excuse to top your scent up throughout the night. As for the fragrance itself? Expect that iconic blend of sultry, amber laden notes.
Pros
- Affordable way to own a piece of Chanel
Cons
- Sells out often
www.selfridges.com
When this balm holder landed on the Grazia beauty desk, it sparked a scramble to ensure the entire team got one. Encased in vibrant hot pink, Dior’s iconic Le Baume (a hero for hydrating skin) has been reimagined for on-the-go top-ups. Simply clip it onto your bag for the perfect fashion-meets-function moment.
Pros
- Easy to wipe clean
- Generous size
Cons
- Limited editon - will sell out fast
www.celine.com
If your budget doesn't quite stretch to a Celine handbag then consider investing in the miniature perfume holder. Crafted in sleek, tan leather and embossed with golden lettering, this dinky treasure will elevate any tote. It's small, yes, but undeniably mighty. It's the perfect present.
Pros
- Availble in store if you want the full shopping experience
- Collectable
Cons
- Perfume sold separately
uk.glossier.com
Glossier knows a thing or two about cult beauty buys. Case in point: its new collectable Banana Balm keychain, which is already destined to sell out. Complete with a dinky metal cap, it’s as cute as they come. While the balm itself is sold separately, we can confirm it’s worth every penny - it's beloved for its nourishing, soothing formula and it’s packed with antioxidants and natural emollients to soften parched lips.
Pros
- Balm is packed with antioxidants
- Includes metal cap to elevate orginal balm
Cons
- Will need to buy balm separately
- Limited edition
John Lewis & Partners
For feathery, sooty lashes, you’d be hard-pressed to find a formula better than Carolina Herrera’s. Enriched with jasmine oil to condition lashes over time, it delivers both instant impact and long-term care. Best of all? It’s part of the charm collection- meaning lash lovers can now let their mascara swing stylishly from their handbag.
Pros
- Mascara contains conditioning agents
Cons
- Sells out frequently
fentybeauty.co.uk
The cherry trend shows no sign of faltering - and for good reason. Look to this Fenty set for your latest hit of the sweet stuff - not only is the limited-edition lip care beautifully scented with a hefy hit of Black Cherry, but it comes with an exclusive keychain. Consider us sold.
Pros
- In the sale
Cons
- Limited editon - will sell out fast
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism
Main image credits: Photographer: Kristy Noble/Stylist: Alfie Di Trolio/Edit: Annie Vischer/Shoot producer: Anna Dewhurst/Head of beauty: Joely Walker