If There's One Accessory Trend You Try This Winter, Make It This One

To steal the popular adage from Miranda Priestly, chain detailing doesn't seem like the most groundbreaking concept when it comes to accessory trends. After all, chains have been used as functional straps on handbags for several decades.

But when it comes to the chain embellishments of 2020, we have to say, they are definitely something to write home about. This season, the humble chain detail has been given an upgrade, and yes we mean that quite literally. Supersized and placed on shoes, jewellery and clothing, chains have gone from simply being a practical addition on an accessory to becoming a statement-making detail in and of themselves. 

From JW Anderson to Bottega Veneta, oversize chains appeared across the runway for A/W 2020—placed atop loafers, around ankle straps and woven within knitwear—making the detail one to look out for this season. Tiffany Hsu, fashion buying director at MyTheresa, agrees. "Chain-link jewellery has been in the spotlight for some time now, but this season, the trend gets bigger—literally and figuratively," Hsu explained. "In Milan, Bottega Veneta presented chunky chain necklaces reminiscent of the strap adorning new iterations of the Pouch and the Cassette bags. It also fused links into garments to add preciosity to knitwear." 

So whether it be on a pair of shoes, across drop earring or an embellishment placed within the clothing itself, chain details are proving to be quite the addition this season. Keep scrolling to see how the fashion set is embracing the trend, and shop chain details below. 

Style Notes: JW Anderson embraced the trend in a big way this season, and we mean that quite literally as the designer placed oversize chains on footwear and handbags. 

Style Notes: Chain details on bags have also been given an upgrade, becoming more of a focal point, as seen on the Yuzefi bag here. 

Style Notes: Of course, Bottega Veneta's quilted bags have been leading the pack with their chunky chains.

Style Notes: Chain details have started being added to dresses, knitwear, shirts and more. 

Style Notes: The major trend has even infiltrated eyewear, with sunglasses straps being rendered in kitsch plastic chains.

Style Notes: Bottega Veneta's pouch bag, with the oversize chain detail, was one of the first iterations of this trend. The popularity of this bag in many ways led the way for all the others to follow. 

Shop the Chain-Detail Trend

Next up, the biggest A/W20 fashion trends you need to know. 

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.