What are the best ways to accessorise your handbag for the winter?

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Winter in the UK is all about cosy layers and rich textures. If you love to accessorise, your handbag could be the perfect place to add a final touch. Instead of buying a new one this year, why not upgrade your current collection with some clever accessorising? 

From charms and scarves to seasonal statements, here’s how to give your winter look a new lease of life – all thanks to your handbag. 

Add some character with charms and key rings

Handbag charms and dainty keyrings make a brilliant way to show your personality. 

Whether you go for a fluffy, colourful monster or a sleek, metallic tag with your initials, small details such as these can transform even the most basic handbag. While coats and boots often steal the spotlight, handbags can always be a powerful style statement.

If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-impact way to make a statement, keyrings let you do just that – without saying a word.

Wear a scarf for a touch of class

Need a subtle way to elevate your bag? Try the timeless trick of tying a beautiful scarf around the handle.

This simple tip adds an instant pop of colour and some textural variety too, making your bag look more expensive and your outfit more carefully considered. Pick a silk one with a bold pattern or go for a wool scarf in a jewel tone like emerald, ruby or sapphire. These gorgeous hues complement the darker palettes of the season. 

Less is more

Embracing minimalism will always be classy. Dainty straps and only smaller practical details make for a bag that lets your outfit do all the talking. If you want to show off your new knee-high boots or faux-fur jacket, choose a simple handbag with one colour. 

Swap out the strap

This trend is here to stay. 2025 has witnessed a rise in bold, interchangeable bag straps – and shaking things up could be one of the most effective ways to refresh its look.

Wide, patterned canvas straps are a favourite this winter, giving an effortlessly sporty feel to a classic leather bag. For something a little bit more sophisticated, you could swap to a chain strap or a wide leather one in a rich chocolate brown. These top picks not only add flair but also allow you to coordinate with your outerwear and boots. 

Embrace the vintage revival

Old-school is the new cool. Fashion is now looking back for inspiration, with designers bringing back classic bag silhouettes along with accessories from decades gone by. 

Think about adding a retro buckle, elongated straps and other nostalgic embellishments. These small, archive-inspired touches will give your bag a unique story and its own timeless feel. 

Ultimately, your winter handbag is your own blank canvas. With just a few simple accessories, you can create a look that’s both current and completely personal. 

Written by Megan Taylor
Megan is a beauty expert who is passionate about all things makeup and glam! Her love for makeup has brought her to become a beauty pro at Glamour Garden Cosmetics.