I love a good novelty bag. If you’re unsure what the heck a novelty bag is, it’s simply a playful or quirky style of handbag. While not always the most practical, they make for a fun statement piece. They add a whimsical element to your look and are a great conversation starter!

Wicker Crab | Raffia Palm | Pineapple | Backgammon Clutch | Beaded Surfer Girls | Wicker Turtle | Blue Fish | Vase of Lillies | Surfboard Clutch | Banana Wristlet | Hedgehog | Sequined Orange | Tic-Tac-Toe | Destination Shoulder Bag | Goldfish | Strawberry | Orange Wristlet | Beaded Mushroom | Brass Mushroom | Watermelon Slice | Raffia Monkey | Shelled Goldfish | Box of Spaghetti

Why I Love Novelty Bags

I could go on and on about why I love a novelty bag, but to sum it up: they’re just really fun! All you have to do is look at it, and you can probably deduce that the woman wearing it isn’t taking herself too seriously. Practical and neutral handbags have a time and a place, but it sure isn’t when I’m looking to put on a cute outfit and have fun.

Anytime I spot one of these fun bags, I immediately want to know the story of the purse and the person who’s wearing it. They just make you smile. I don’t think anyone rocking a novelty bag is having a bad day, at least not anymore. And who cares if your iPhone can’t fit inside? That’s what pockets are for!

Novelty Bag Brands I Love

There are so many great brands, and I didn’t even include them all in the image above. That should tell you how many incredible options are out there!

Here are brands that offer a plethora of styles: STAUD, Cult Gaia, Simon Miller, Mary Frances Accessories, JW PEI, Anya Hindmarch, Serpui, Betsey Johnson, Mercedes Salazar, Moschino, Lulu Guiness, and Dauphinette.

Another brand I’m obsessed with is Olympia Le Tan. The Paris-based fashion house is known for its iconic hand-embroidered clutches that resemble books. How gorgeous is the one below?

If you’re looking to really splurge on a statement accessory, look no further than the brand that revolutionized the novelty bag, Judith Leiber! Not only is the brand a leader in statement pieces, but Judith’s own story is worth knowing.

She was Hungarian and survived the Nazi occupation, eventually meeting and marrying an American soldier and moving to the US. Her big break came when she designed a bag for Mamie Eisenhower for the presidential inaugural ball.

The Judith Leiber website has a great story about how the brand came to be. It’s a must-read!