What Does Fashion’s Obsession With Childlike Accessories Say About Us?

What Does Fashion’s Obsession With Childlike Accessories Say About Us?


As a kid, I was adamant on dressing older. When my mom wasn’t looking, I’d often sneak into her wardrobe and slip on her heels, click-clacking around the house; and I loved trying on ties from my dad’s epic collection. I simply wanted nothing to do with age-appropriate clothes—something that continued well into my teens, when I was all about wearing sleek suits (as if I, a 16-year-old, were a corporate banker getting ready to clock into my 9-to-5). From a young age, I realized that fashion could transform you; all it only takes the right combination of pieces to look more mature and put-together.

Coach spring 2025 Photo: Armando Grillo / Gorunway.com

Chopova Lowena spring 2025 Photo: Getty Images

This season, however, fashion seems to be leading in the totally opposite direction. For spring 2025, designers have created all manner of childlike accessories—zeroing in on bags, shoes, and jewelry that are kitschy, cutesy, or just downright adorable. Of course, these luxe accessories require a very adult salary to wear them, but fashion appears to be all-in on toddler style, urging shoppers to add a playful bit of pep to more grounded attire.

Coach spring 2025 Photo: Armando Grillo / Gorunway.com

Versace spring 2025 Armando Grillo – Paolo Lanzi / Gorunway.com

At Coach, models carried big leather handbags in the shapes of hearts or teddy bears, some with stickers slapped all over them. At Simone Rocha, bejeweled hair clips sparkled under the catwalk lights, while rhinestone-covered sneakers at Chopova Lowena—paired with graphic neon socks—begged for schoolyard playtime. Louis Vuitton added big, colorful gemstones onto its monogrammed leather handbags (perfect for teatime); while Valentino offered up the sort of cat-shaped minaudière bags that would delight a tiny tot.

Valentino spring 2025 Photo: Courtesy of Valentino

Louis Vuitton spring 2025 Photo: A.Grillo – G.Carraro / Gorunway.com

It’s undeniable that fashion has become…



Source link

Have a news tip for The Bold Maven? Submit your news tip or article here.