From bleach bottles to baguettes, handbags are getting weirder—and we’re totally here for it.
If you’ve recently spotted someone clutching what appears to be a carton of orange juice or a glittering sardine tin at brunch, don’t worry—you haven’t stumbled into a surrealist painting. Welcome to the era of novelty handbags, where the more absurd your arm candy, the better.
The Bag That Looks Like a Bag of Chips (But Isn’t)
Fashion’s latest obsession is turning everyday objects into high-end accessories. Think purses shaped like popcorn buckets, telephone receivers, or even bleach bottles. Designers like Anya Hindmarch and Moschino have been leading the charge, transforming mundane items into must-have fashion statements.
This trend isn’t entirely new. Judith Leiber, the queen of kitsch, was crafting crystal-encrusted minaudières resembling cupcakes and cash registers decades ago. But in 2025, the novelty bag has evolved from a quirky outlier to a mainstream staple, embraced by luxury houses and streetwear brands alike.
Why Are We So Obsessed?
So, what’s fueling our collective craving for these whimsical accessories? Psychologists suggest it’s a mix of “kidulting”—adults indulging in childlike pleasures—and the “main-character effect,” where individuals seek to stand out in a sea of sameness.
In a world dominated by minimalist aesthetics and neutral palettes, a purse shaped like a pineapple or a vintage rotary phone offers a refreshing dose of individuality and humor. It’s fashion’s way of saying, “Don’t take life too seriously.”
The Celeb Stamp of Approval
When celebrities like Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Lisa from Blackpink start sporting these eccentric bags, you know it’s more than just a passing fad. Their endorsement has propelled the trend into the mainstream, with fans eager to emulate their playful style. Even high-fashion events aren’t immune.
At Lauren Sánchez’s Parisian bachelorette party, guests received custom Goyard totes hand-painted with diamond rings, commissioned by none other than Kim Kardashian.
The Art of the Absurd
Designers are pushing the boundaries of creativity, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. From Balenciaga’s coffee cup bag to Louis Vuitton’s paint can purse, the line between fashion and art continues to blur.
These bags aren’t just accessories; they’re conversation starters, statement pieces that challenge our perceptions of luxury and taste. In a world where fashion often feels inaccessible, novelty bags offer a touch of whimsy and approachability.
Functionality vs. Fabulousness
Let’s be honest: these bags aren’t winning any awards for practicality. They might not hold much more than a lipstick and a credit card, but that’s beside the point. They’re about making a statement, embracing the absurd, and having fun with fashion.
As the saying goes, “It’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey.” And with a purse shaped like a pineapple in tow, the journey is bound to be a delightful one.
