Fashion takes us back to childhood: The playful accessories trend

Fashion has fully embraced a sense of playfulness. Bags and shoes are adorned with whimsical charms, jewelry looks like it was made at summer camp, and bright beaded handbags are turning shopping into a TikTok-style treasure hunt. This summer’s accessories aren’t just a nostalgic nod—they’re a full-on return to childhood. The Kidcore trend has been evolving for several years, but this season, it’s reached its peak. And while it’s fun, there’s also a psychological response to the challenging times we live in, notes WWD.

Once a niche trend on Etsy and among fashion bloggers, Kidcore has now burst into the mainstream with its bright, kitschy, and almost “toy-like” aesthetic. Think chunky colorful beads, Crocs with charms, and mini bags shaped like animals or fruits. Luxury fashion houses have fully embraced the playful vibe: Chloé unveiled jelly sandals, Coach decorated sneakers with oversized Barbie-inspired charms, and Moschino added children’s drawings to handbags. Even runway shows evoked a childlike fantasy—Bottega Veneta used animal-shaped beanbag chairs, and Coperni staged their spring 2025 show at Disneyland Paris.

On TikTok, Gen Z hunts for Y2K and handmade accessories, turning DIY style into a status symbol. These fashion items now resemble arcade prizes more than museum exhibits.

Luxury brands aren’t new to Kidcore—Fendi launched “Monster Bag Bugs” in 2013, featuring rainbow-colored plush charms. But today’s accessories immerse fashion in childhood nostalgia more fully, combining high-end design with a new level of consumer excitement.

Psychologists note that the surge in nostalgic, playful accessories reflects global instability—economic uncertainty, political unrest, and social upheaval. “People seek safety and comfort by returning to items that evoke childhood memories,” explains psychoanalyst Patrick Fagan. These accessories are not only safe but also bring joy in difficult times.

The Kidcore trend also aligns with the concept of dopamine dressing—the idea that bright colors and playful pieces can boost mood by stimulating “happy hormones.”

Want to join the trend without breaking the bank? Start small: pick one bold, eye-catching piece you can wear repeatedly. It could be a beaded necklace, an anklet, or ’90s-style sandals.

Ultimately, this summer’s playful accessories aren’t just a fashion fad—they’re a way to reclaim joy and lightness through style. Slip on pink jelly sandals, layer grown-up versions of childhood jewelry, or carry a beaded bag that doesn’t take itself too seriously. We could all use a little piece of carefree childhood in our lives.