How to Style The Harvard and Columbia Charms on Your Bag
By Cambridge Satchel - Leather Handbags, Handcrafted in the UK | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to attach and style the Harvard and Columbia leather charms on your satchel or handbag. Step-by-step guide with placement ideas.
Quick answer
Attach the Harvard or Columbia charm to a bag strap, zipper pull, or D-ring using the lobster clasp. For a balanced look, place one charm on the front and another on the side or back.
Why placement matters
A leather charm adds personality without overwhelming your bag. The Harvard and Columbia charms are small enough to tuck into a corner or let hang freely. Where you put them changes the visual weight. A front-center placement draws attention; a side or back placement keeps it subtle.
Mixing two charms on one bag
If you own both the Harvard and Columbia charms, you can wear them together. The key is spacing. Clip one to the main zipper pull and the other to a side D-ring or strap loop. This avoids tangling and lets each charm show its own detail.
How to attach and style your charm
- Choose your anchor point: Look for a D-ring, strap loop, zipper pull, or key ring holder on your bag. The lobster clasp on the charm fits most standard anchors. Avoid thin fabric loops that might stretch over time. Check that the anchor is sturdy enough to hold the charm without sagging.
- Clip the charm securely: Open the lobster clasp by pressing the small lever, hook it onto the anchor, and release. Give it a gentle tug to confirm it’s closed. A half-closed clasp can drop the charm without you noticing. Test the clasp every few weeks, especially if you carry the bag daily.
- Decide on placement: For a single charm, clip it to the front zipper or the main strap near the bag body. For two charms, put one on the front and the other on the side or back. This keeps the look balanced and prevents the charms from hitting each other. If the charms clink or overlap, move one to a different anchor.
Product facts
- The Columbia Charm: The Columbia Charm features the Columbia blue shield and crown, made from 100% leather with branded hardware. The blue and white design stands out against dark leather bags, making it a good choice for a front or top-zipper placement.
The Columbia Charm - The Harvard Charm: The Harvard Charm layers a bold crimson ‘H’ over a leather pennant, also 100% leather with branded hardware. The crimson color pops on neutral or black bags, so you can use it as a focal point on the front flap or side strap.
The Harvard Charm
