The crossbody bag has faced a reputation crisis in recent years, with some dismissing it as a practical but unglamorous accessory. However, this style of bag offers much more than just functionality. With its wide range of designs and materials, the crossbody bag can cater to anyone’s taste and needs. From designer brands to retro-inspired pieces, there’s a vast array of crossbody bags available.
Whether you’re looking for something luxurious or affordable, you’ll find that this style of bag is not only practical but also stylish. When choosing a crossbody bag, consider the material, size, and design. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to find one that suits your lifestyle and personal taste.
What You Need to Know About Crossbody Bags
When it comes to selecting a crossbody bag that aligns with your style and meets your requirements, there are several key factors to consider beforehand. To ensure you find the perfect one, let’s break down the essential information you should keep in mind during your shopping process.
Why Choose a Crossbody Bag?
Crossbody bags have become an indispensable accessory for busy parents and travelers alike. This practical design allows you to carry your belongings close at hand while keeping your arms free to attend to your little ones or sample local cuisine. By distributing the weight of the bag across your body, you can enjoy the benefits of a spacious purse without the fatigue that comes with carrying a heavy load on one shoulder or having to hold onto a cumbersome strap all day.
Choosing the Material for Your Bag
When exploring vegan leather alternatives, our guide aims to provide a diverse range of materials, including plant-based and synthetic options. Beyond traditional leather and vegan leather, there are other choices that offer unique benefits and drawbacks.
Leather is renowned for its exceptional durability, resistant to tearing and cracking if properly maintained. Its natural dyes do not bleed or run, making it a chemical-free option.
As leather ages, it develops a distinctive patina, sometimes even enhancing its appearance over time. Additionally, it offers natural water-resistance.
Vegan leather, on the other hand, can mimic the look of animal hides but often boasts a wider color palette than traditional leather. Its affordability and potential for waterproofing, oil resistance, and tear-resistance make it an attractive option. It’s also surprisingly strong given its weight per square inch.
Nylon is another semi-synthetic fabric that has gained popularity as a silk substitute during wartime. As a budget-friendly vegan choice, it feels less like plastic than some leather alternatives. Its water-resistance and potential tear-resistance make it an excellent option for handbags.
Canvas, often associated with painting, is actually a durable material crafted from natural fibers like cotton or linen.
Combining these fibers with a small amount of PVC can create a stronger, more waterproof material. This eco-friendly option is ideal for those seeking a vegan choice that doesn’t rely heavily on synthetic materials.
Styles of Crossbody Bag
When it comes to handbags, there are several distinct styles that can help narrow down the options. While individual bags may blend elements from multiple categories, we’ve grouped our selection into a few primary designs based on key characteristics. These defining features include shape, size, closure mechanism, and overall structure. Here’s a brief overview of each style:Hobo-style bags are characterized by their slouchy, tall-and-wide silhouette, often without any framing to hold them up.
This relaxed look makes them perfect for casual wear, with many crossbody bags falling into this category due to their adjustable straps. Satchel-style bags are structured and wider than they are tall, typically featuring a flap closure and snaps or hooks. They can be paired with a short handle or crossbody strap, making them versatile options. Baguette-style bags take the shape of their namesake bread, being wider than tall and often closing with a zipper at the top.
These smaller bags offer a chic, compact alternative for everyday use. Messenger bags are designed to carry documents, books, and even laptops, typically featuring a rectangular flap closure and adjustable crossbody strap. Sling-style bags blend elements of backpacks and crossbody bags, often featuring multiple pockets and a single strap that crosses the body diagonally.
Our selection includes ten crossbody bags that cater to various tastes and budgets, with size and style variations to suit nearly everyone’s needs.
Top 10 Best Crossbody Bags 2024
Best Overall Crossbody Bag: Realer Hobo Bucket Bag
We’re huge fans of this vegan leather bag because it’s incredibly versatile. What sets it apart is its ability to adapt to your needs, whether that’s carrying a laptop and water bottle or just the essentials like your phone and wallet. The bag itself has one large main compartment with a center divider, making it perfect for organizing your belongings. It also comes with multiple internal pockets for storing smaller items.
And if you need even more space, there’s a larger size option available too. One of our favorite features is the adjustable strap that allows you to wear the bag as a fashion handbag, or switch to a one-shoulder or crossbody configuration. The long strap is securely attached with sturdy metal clips. What’s more, this bag comes in an impressive 22 different colors, giving you plenty of options to match your style and wardrobe.
The only drawback is that the faux leather material can be prone to peeling at the edges over time, which may affect its durability. In terms of who it’s for, we think this bag is ideal for anyone who regularly carries a lot of gear like notebooks, tablets, or work essentials. It’s also perfect for those looking for an attractive and affordable alternative to real leather in a variety of colors.
Best Premium Crossbody Bag: Michael Kors Jet Set Crossbody
Best Leather Crossbody Bag: KPL Crossbody Leather Satchel
This timeless leather satchel is a great addition to any wardrobe, offering both functionality and affordability. While its classic style would have been suitable for students and workers 100 years ago, it remains just as stylish and practical today. The bag’s full-grain leather exterior, lined with sturdy canvas, will only improve with age, while the wider strap helps distribute its weight for reduced shoulder strain.
With ample space to carry essentials and a main compartment that can fit books or tablets, this bag is designed to keep pace with your busy lifestyle. The front flap and smaller compartments securely buckle shut, providing peace of mind when navigating crowded streets. One drawback to consider is the initial stiffness of the leather, which will require some breaking-in time. However, this characteristic also lends itself well to developing a beautiful patina over the years.
Additionally, the bag’s closure system, featuring belt-loop style buckles, provides excellent security but may take a bit more effort to open and close than alternative designs. For those seeking a pre-softened leather bag with a zipper closure, our recommendation from Estalon might be a better fit. Ultimately, this satchel is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a spacious and affordable leather bag that will only improve with time.
Best Sling Crossbody Bag: Leaper Retro Messenger Sling Bag
What makes this sling bag stand out is its unique blend of style and practicality. On one hand, it allows you to stay fashionable while commuting or taking public transportation, thanks to its canvas material and unisex design. On the other hand, it’s designed with comfort and functionality in mind, featuring padded straps that prevent digging into your shoulders. The bag comes in two sizes – medium and large – to accommodate laptops of up to 13 inches and tablets of up to 10 inches respectively.
You can choose from a range of colors to suit your personal style. The design is versatile enough to be worn across the body, either around the front or back, making it perfect for daily commutes. While this bag has its pros, there are some downsides to consider. Over time, the sliding buckle on the strap may loosen, requiring adjustments throughout the day. Additionally, the magnetic clasps can be weak and prone to failure, although the bag will still stay shut even if one or both of them fail.
Ultimately, this bag is perfect for anyone who needs a comfortable and versatile companion for their daily commutes. Its padded straps will also save your shoulders from strain when carrying heavy items like books or laptops.
Best Budget Crossbody Bag: Deluxity Lightweight Crossbody Bag
This versatile and affordable hobo bag offers a wide range of color options, making it an excellent addition to any wardrobe. The lightweight design features a functional front pocket with decorative tassels on the zippers, giving it a playful look. The interior boasts one zipper pocket and two open pockets on either side, providing ample space for carrying slim items like documents, notebooks, and tablets.
One of the standout features of this bag is its 50+ color options, which include various shades and combinations. Each bag also comes with striped lining and gold-tone hardware, adding to its unique appeal. The price point is competitive, making it an excellent option for those who want to purchase multiples in different colors to match their outfits.
While the vegan leather material may not be of the highest quality, the bag still offers a surprising amount of storage space considering its slim design. However, it’s essential to note that the stitching could be stronger, and the hardware might be prone to bending or tarnishing. Additionally, the decorative tassels may get caught in the zipper. Overall, this bag is ideal for those who need to carry a lot of slim items and want a stylish accessory to match their outfit.
It’s not meant to be an investment piece that will last years, but rather a versatile option that can be rotated through your wardrobe. The pros include its lightweight design, suitability for carrying tall thin items, wide range of colors, and attractive full lining. The cons are the poor quality stitching, flimsy hardware, and lack of expandability width-wise.
Best Travel Crossbody Bag: Baggallini Everywhere Bagg
This travel bag is a game-changer for anyone who wants to stay organized, safe, and stylish while exploring new places. Designed with functionality in mind, it features multiple pockets for storing documents, smaller items, and essentials like your wallet. The nylon material ensures water-resistance and machine washability, making it perfect for unpredictable weather conditions. A removable RFID-blocking wallet adds an extra layer of security to keep your personal information protected.
The bag also comes with a luggage sleeve that allows you to securely attach it to the top of your rolling luggage when running to catch a connecting flight. With its spacious design and numerous organizational pockets, this bag is ideal for jet-setters who need a reliable companion to carry their belongings from plane cabins to busy city streets. However, it’s not without its flaws. The strap can be stiff and uncomfortable, which may cause it to dig into your skin.
Additionally, the stitching may come loose over time, and some users have reported difficulties with the pocket loops. Furthermore, the bag’s appearance may not be as sleek or stylish as you’d like, especially in brighter colors. Despite these drawbacks, this travel bag remains a great option for those who value its protective features, organizational capabilities, and washability. If you’re willing to overlook some minor flaws, it can be a reliable and trustworthy companion on your travels.
Best Multi-Pocket Crossbody Bag: Scarleton Multi Pocket Crossbody Bag
In terms of functionality, this vegan leather bag stands out due to its thoughtful design. The interior features a roomy center compartment and multiple zipper pockets that allow you to stay organized and carry larger items with ease. Additionally, the snap closure pocket on the front provides quick access to small essentials like keys or headphones. The product is made from PU/vegan leather, which has a soft and thin texture that resembles broken-in leather.
It’s available in 12 colors and features warm bronze-toned hardware on the zippers, snaps, and strap adjuster. The bag measures 9.4”x10.6”x2” and is tall enough to accommodate a standard water bottle. One of its most attractive features is its lightweight design, making it perfect for daily use without adding bulk to your load. It’s also water-resistant, which adds to its appeal. The outer zipper pocket can even fit a passport, making it suitable for travel.
However, the bag isn’t without its drawbacks. The main compartment has good depth but lacks width, making it better suited for flat objects. The front pockets are designed for quick access, but they’re too small to accommodate most modern smartphones with cases. Furthermore, the dye used may fade over time, particularly in high-contact areas. In conclusion, this bag is a great option for those seeking an easy-to-use, comfortable, and cute bag for everyday use.
Just be aware of the potential color fading, which can give it a distressed look after some time. This bag is also suitable for those who prefer not to carry heavy loads.
Best Crossbody Bag for Running Errands: Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag
The sling bag’s thoughtful design features make it an excellent companion for a busy lifestyle. With its modern and sleek appearance, this versatile bag can seamlessly transition from the hiking trail to the office. One of the standout aspects is its practicality. The wide strap allows for comfortable wear around your front or back, distributing the weight evenly. Two mesh pockets on either side provide ample space for a water bottle and umbrella, keeping them dry and organized.
A zipper pocket on the strap offers a secure spot for your phone, while the main compartment features a latch closure and several inner compartments for organization. The bag also boasts an access port for headphones, allowing you to enjoy music discreetly while keeping your device hidden away. The lanyard attachment on the keyring prevents keys from getting lost in the main cavity. However, there are some drawbacks to consider.
The strap can be stiff and lacks additional padding, making it uncomfortable when carrying heavy loads or for those with longer torsos. Additionally, the bag’s capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for carrying larger laptops or photography equipment. If you require a more spacious interior and comfortable straps, our top pick from Leaper may be a better fit.
For those seeking a small yet organized companion for daily errands, this bag excites with its easy accessibility to commonly used items while maintaining security. It’s an excellent choice for casual commutes as long as you don’t have bulky laptops or numerous books to carry.
Best Leather Hobo Bag: Estalon Leather Crossbody Purse
This bag’s durability and ease of use make it a great everyday companion. The combination of pre-softened leather and a classic hobo design creates a timeless look that can seamlessly transition from day to night. With 21 color options ranging from understated black and brown to bold red and animal print, there’s a shade to suit every personal style.
The bag’s sturdy construction is thanks in part to its 100% cowhide material, which also means it will develop a unique patina over time as you use it. The adjustable strap features an all-leather design with a metal sliding buckle, while the top closes with a secure zipper and the front has two outer zipper pockets. Inside, the bag is cloth-lined and includes a phone pocket and hidden zipper compartment for added organization.
While it may not have ample room to expand, the bag’s limited capacity can actually be an advantage as it encourages you to pack thoughtfully and efficiently. Of course, no bag is perfect, and this one has its downsides. The thin strap may feel uncomfortable on longer carries, and the bag’s overall capacity is limited by its design. Additionally, developing that attractive patina may take some time, especially if you’re looking for a soft, semi-distressed look from day one.
That being said, this bag is well-suited for those who prioritize durability and simplicity in their accessories. With proper care, it can become a trusted companion for years to come.
Best Laptop Crossbody Bag: Mactso Vintage Canvas Satchel Messenger Bag
We love this messenger bag for its versatility and practicality. Whether you’re a student or working professional, it’s the perfect companion for carrying your daily essentials. The canvas material is sturdy and water-resistant, available in four colors to suit your style. The real leather tabs add a touch of sophistication while ensuring durability.
With a spacious center compartment that can accommodate a 13-inch laptop, this bag is ideal for those who need to carry their devices along with documents and books. Inside, you’ll find multiple smaller pockets, including one zipper pocket, perfect for storing your phone, cards, and keys. Two larger external pockets are great for stashing a mini-tablet, phone, or pen and notebook within easy reach. The flat velcro closure on the front ensures everything stays neatly contained.
While this bag does an excellent job of carrying a 13-inch laptop, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t provide additional cushioning or protection for your device. You may want to consider investing in a separate case to protect your laptop as you go about your day. The strap itself is fairly wide and designed to distribute the weight, but some users might appreciate a bit more cushioning for added comfort.
If you experience frequent shoulder pain from heavy bags, you may want to explore options with built-in shoulder padding. The lining of the bag is made of polyester, which while not luxurious, provides a tear-resistant and slightly slippery surface that makes it easy to retrieve items. However, some users might find the material used in this bag feels cheap and noisy when rummaging through their belongings.
All About Crossbody Bags
While we’ve shared some of our top picks with you, the question remains: how can you effectively incorporate crossbody bags into your daily routine?
Styling Your Crossbody Bag
Crossbody bags offer an unbeatable combination of practicality and style, making them a versatile accessory for various occasions. Whether you’re exploring the city, enjoying nature, or attending cultural events, a crossbody bag can keep your hands free while still allowing you to carry the essentials. In urban settings, pair a sleek crossbody bag with dark wash jeans, comfortable boots, and a cozy sweater for a modern, on-the-go look that’s perfect for cafes, shopping excursions, or sightseeing.
For nature lovers, opt for a sportier option that pairs well with lightweight trousers, a button-down shirt, and your favorite sneakers. When attending museums and cultural events, leave the backpack behind and choose a spacious crossbody bag that exudes sophistication. Pair it with comfortable flats, opaque tights or leggings, a knee-length wool skirt, and a cable knit cardigan for an elegant, timeless look that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Real or Synthetic Leather: Which Is Better for a Crossbody Bag?
While leather’s reputation as a reliable and stylish material for purses has endured for decades, the rise of plant-based diets has led many consumers to reevaluate their wardrobe choices. However, the proliferation of synthetic alternatives made from plastics raises questions about which option is truly more eco-friendly. The answer lies in scrutinizing production methods and, crucially, taking responsibility for caring for our chosen materials so that waste is minimized over time.
As innovation continues to drive the development of innovative biomaterials like mushroom or cactus leather, we can expect an array of durable and sustainable options to emerge. For now, it’s essential to prioritize individual values and conduct thorough research before making a purchase.
Crossbody Bags and Travel
When venturing out in bustling cities like Tokyo or Hong Kong during the summer, a common sight is young women travelers sporting crossbody bags. The straps are often adorned with scarves or cardigans peeking out from the top. This phenomenon can be attributed to the allure of preparedness that draws experienced travelers to these versatile bags.
The appeal lies in their ability to strike a balance between convenience and practicality.
Crossbody bags offer a compact, unobtrusive solution for carrying the essentials without sacrificing style. They’re perfect for navigating crowded streets or exploring hidden alleys without drawing attention from potential pickpockets or scammers.
In contrast, backpacks have fallen out of favor due to their conspicuous nature in urban environments. Their bulky design can lead to accidental bumps and knocks, making them unsuitable for formal occasions or quiet restaurants.
Furthermore, the hiking-inspired look may attract unwanted attention, increasing the risk of theft or scams.
Crossbody bags have emerged as a stylish and practical alternative, offering an ideal blend of functionality and fashion. Many companies now design travel-specific crossbody bags with enhanced security features, catering to the needs of discerning travelers. Ultimately, when selecting a crossbody bag for your travels, prioritize sturdiness, ample storage space, and a comfortable fit.
Are Crossbody Bags Bad for Your Back?
When using crossbody bags for an extended period, it’s common for the weight distribution to affect your posture, leading to discomfort or even chronic pain. Interestingly, this is not unique to crossbody bags – any one-sided load, including shoulder bags, can have similar consequences. However, some experts suggest that crossbody bags might actually be a safer option when carrying heavy items due to their ability to distribute weight more evenly.
For individuals who need to carry particularly heavy loads or already experience back and shoulder pain, backpacks or belt bags are often considered the safest choice. If these options aren’t feasible for your lifestyle or personal style, there are steps you can take to make crossbody bag wearing even safer. One key consideration is strap thickness. Narrow straps tend to concentrate weight rather than distribute it, increasing the risk of discomfort and pain.
Opting for a crossbody bag with wider or padded straps can help prevent this by spreading the load across a larger area of your body. Another important habit to develop is alternating sides when wearing your crossbody bag. Consistently carrying your bag on one side can lead to postural imbalances over time, potentially causing issues like misalignment and chronic strain. By switching between shoulders each day, you can help maintain a balanced posture.
In addition to these habits, cultivating greater awareness of your posture is crucial for overall well-being. In today’s digital age, it’s easy to fall into the habit of slouching or slumping while working on your computer. Practicing good posture by holding your head up, chest out, and shoulders back – even when carrying a bag – can help prevent injury and alleviate discomfort.
Finally, incorporating exercises and stretches that target your posture each day can have a significant impact on preventing and alleviating pain.
Final Words
By now, you’ve likely gained a new appreciation for crossbody bags – or perhaps you’re still on the fence. Either way, our comprehensive guide aims to bridge that gap and turn you into a devoted fan. These bags are a masterclass in blending style with practicality, offering endless possibilities and even injecting a dash of playfulness into your daily routine.
With a solid foundation of insight and an impressive selection of ten standout options, we’re confident that this guide has empowered you to discover the perfect crossbody bag that suits your unique taste and needs.
