The Rise of Trinket Culture

Sydney Lee

Trinkets, small and often whimsical objects, like keychains, tiny accessories and collectible figurines, have established a significant niche in popular culture. Some popular examples include naked cherub Sonny Angels and green ghost Smiskis. These items are not just decorative, but are also indicators of personal expression and memory.

A main appeal of trinkets lies in their ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. Alex Kisow (CW ‘26) highlighted this, stating, “I look for trinkets that remind me of my younger self… The newer [phrase] ‘healing your inner child’ is definitely a big part of trinkets for me.” This resonates with many collectors who find comfort and emotional connection through these small objects. 

Trinkets also serve as reminders of experiences. Tiffani Hsu (PD ‘26) shared, “In case in the future I forget what I did, I can say, ‘Oh wow. I’ve been there,’ and I have certain memories of going out and buying that item.” This tradition of collecting keepsakes turns everyday objects into cherished memories.

In the realm of fashion, trinkets have found a place as accessories that allow for self-expression. Jasmine Lee (CMD ‘26) noted, “I often add them to my bag to spice it up. It’s a fun way to take a plain item and personalize it.”

However, the surge in popularity, driven by social media platforms, has led to a mass production of trinkets, sometimes diluting their personal significance. Lee observed, “Due to the increased popularity, trinkets have become less personalized and more generic. Many people buy and collect trinkets from the same places or brands when they’re meant to be personal and unique to yourself.” 

This mass appeal can overshadow the original intent of trinkets as unique expressions of individuality. Kisow added, “Sonny Angels, Smiskis and little toys became very popular. I think social media just fueled that to where it feels almost necessary to own them.”

Despite this shift, the essence of trinket collecting remains rooted in personal connection, nostalgia and the joy of simple, tangible memories.