These “Silly Little Bags” Will Be Everywhere This Party Season

By Siomha Connolly October 19 2026

Magical minaudières, to have and to hold …

Completely impractical? Certainly. Highly covetable – and collectible? We think so. The elegant minaudière has returned, but this time with a playful twist. From animals and insects to fruit, vegetables and flowers, designers are crafting these little works of art with more than a dash of humour. Online retailer Moda Operandi even has a subcategory titled “silly little bags”, a playful nod to the fact that these items are grossly impractical.

Originally designed as small metal bags (often adorned with gems) that evolved from women carrying their belongings in cigarette cases in the 1920s, they won’t fit your phone – in fact, most shapes are unlikely to store more than a lipstick and a credit card – but that’s almost the point. Leave the world (and non-essential belongings) behind this season. Dior’s whimsical frog (which comes with a cool €20,000 price tag), bumblebee and ladybird became instant collector’s items when they debuted at the AW26 and Haute Couture shows in Paris earlier this year.

Chloe’s swan clutch was worn by Dua Lipa during her wedding celebrations this year. Juju Vera, the New York design studio which creates vintage-inspired jewellery, bags and decorative objects, created a custom minaudière and lighter holder for Emma Roberts’ wedding, both complete with the brand’s signature tassels. Part jewellery, part handbag, these miniature sculptures would be as happy sitting on a display case as they would clutched tightly at a black-tie event – if anything, they’ll act as a conversation starter. Bring some wonder to your wardrobe again, with objects that are beautiful for beauty’s sake.