Studs Are the It Girl-Approved Accessory Trend to Try This Fall

Jenny Humphrey might not have been the main character of Gossip Girl, but lately, she’s been the main character of my Pinterest boards. Part punk princess, part 2012 Tumblr, her sense of style is reminiscent of the golden age of indie sleaze. Think: fishnet tights, lots of leather, lived-in smoky eyes, and The Strokes in her headphones. And, of course, a heavy helping of studs—studded belts, studded boots, or studded bags; sometimes all at once.

Turns out, Jenny’s studded staples were a glimpse into the future. This fall, studs are once again having their moment, and they’re shedding their grungy reputation. Look to It Girl Emily Ratajowski for proof, who’s been sporting her Gimaguas Franca bag around town. Or, just scroll on your For You Page and you’ll spot dozens of influencers sporting generously studded Mary Janes. Even the queen of quiet luxury, Sofia Richie, has given the trend a try.

Ahead, read on to find about the shiny fall fashion trend that’s taking over our accessories, and how to style it.

The Trend

Despite the rumors that we’re in for a “demure” fall, I, personally, am hoping for a Jenny Humphrey fall, studs and all. This past summer was all about dressing like a Brat—strappy tanks, micro shorts, wrap around sunglasses, and “Brat green” accessories reigned supreme. We may be transitioning out of Brat summer, but the essence of Charli XCX’s hit album isn’t going anywhere (in fact, she just announced a remix album). Now more than ever, party-fueled indie sleaze is having its moment, and we’re switching out our jelly sandals for sneaker wedges and our sequined accessories for studded accessories. 

A quick slice of fashion history: In the early 2000s, anyone who was anyone was wearing something studded. Take, for instance, all of Kate Moss’s 2005 Glastonbury looks, which seem to pop up on my Pinterest feed every other week. Hints of studs pop through in all of her outfits: She paired a studded belt with a gold mini dress, and a studded bucket bag with her waistcoat-and-hot-pants combo. She’s the queen of early aughts grunge for a reason.

This time around, studded accessories are coming back with a distinctly modern twist. On TokTok, There are no Hot Topic-esque pyramid studs in sight; instead, round, flat, silver studs cover everything from belts to ballet flats.

On the runway, brands aren’t shying away from studs, either, with Chloé debuting a boho-chic studded clog in their Fall 2024 collection. Khaite was an early adopter of the brand with its boxy Elena bag, which has developed a bit of a cult following. Celebs are also getting in on the action—Lily Rose Depp and Emrata love Gimaguas’ studded bags and belts, and Dua Lipa just wore a studded belt on vacanza.

How to Wear It

At first glance, studded accessories might be a little intimidating, but they’re unexpectedly versatile. They’ve been spotted on all genres of It Girls, from Sofia Richie to Kate Moss to Kylie Jenner. Studded accessories are the quintessential ingredient for all kinds of fall outfits, be it a cocktail dress or your running-errands uniform.

If you’re somewhat hesitant to try out this trend, just know that even quiet luxury icon Sofia Richie approves of it. Richie pairs her studded Khaite Elena bag with a classic white tee and a pair of oversized trousers. It’s a subtle touch, but the studded details on the bag elevate the look from quiet to not-so-quiet.

Of course, adding in a studded accessory doesn’t have to follow a rigid formula. A simple step to elevate any outfit: replace any neutral accessories with a studded one, be it a belt or a pair of Mary Janes or a hobo bag.

For those who aren’t afraid to embrace their indie sleaze nostalgia, go all in with a Kate Moss Glastonbury moment. A chunky studded belt can transform a figure-hugging off-the-shoulder dress, adding an unexpected pop of texture to the outfit. Top it off with a pair of knee-high boots, and you’re basically ready for Glastonbury.