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InStyle / Brian Kopinski
There’s perhaps no worse feeling than your fingers cramping up from hauling around a bulky, heavy tote, especially when you’re on the go. In this case, a crossbody bag is a fitting choice.
“I love them for whenever you’re doing hands-free adventures, so, of course, errands, like going to the grocery store or laundromat,” Vavvoune founder Valérie Blaise tells InStyle. Her brand uses premium leathers discarded by ultraluxury labels to craft handbags and accessories. She says any situation where you need to use your hands is the best time to opt for the accessory. Béis Senior Vice President of Brand and Creative, Elizabeth Money, agrees, noting that the primary advantage of a crossbody bag lies in its remarkable versatility for traveling and, as Blaise mentions, running around town. “The size and fit strike a perfect balance—spacious enough to serve as a personal item with ample room for all your inflight essentials, yet compact enough for everyday use.”
Ahead, find our favorites, including nylon, leather, and silk bags from Baggu, Jacquemus, and Max Mara, among other brands.
Best Overall
JW PEI Crossbody Bag
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Why We Love It: Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Emily Ratajkowski, and Gigi Hadid adore JW Pei’s selection of carryalls—a testament to the brand’s popularity. Our favorite? It’s the Ashlie Crossbody Bag, a faux leather crescent silhouette with gold-tone hardware. In a rich chocolate brown hue, it’s suitable for every season, for $100 no less. Toss it over a midi dress or a tailored suit, and off you go.
Who It’s For: With its luxe faux leather material and unique crescent silhouette, this style is for those with an affinity for accessories that combine both classic and trendy elements.
Material: Faux leather | Closure: Fold-over flap with magnetic snap
Best Affordable
Baggu Small Nylon Crescent Bag
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Why We Love It: It’s a wallet-friendly style that doesn’t skimp on quality. These days, it seems everyone and their mother owns one of these babies, thanks to its functionality and understated design. With a secure zip closure, you needn’t stress about your belongings falling out. The logo on the strap is subtle yet still adds a bit of intrigue to the bag. And if you’re prone to spills (it happens!), whipping liquids off the fabric will be a piece of cake.
Who It’s For: Anyone who appreciates a no-fuss bag that they can throw on as they head out the door. It may not be the most high-style look out there, but it is a go-to for everyday wear.
Material: Technical weave | Closure: Zip
Best Splurge
Bottega Veneta Padded Cassette Bag
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Why We Love It: It’s refined yet bold without being too flashy. (Bottega Veneta’s signature iconic intrecciato weaving will be instantly recognizable.) The triangular hardware on the strap provides the ultimate finishing touch. Play up the elevated vibe of this bag with sleek gold jewelry.
Who It’s For: Because of its steep price tag, this is best for those ready to splurge on a forever bag.
Material: Leather | Closure: Magnetic-snap flap
Best Leather
Vavvoune Crossbody
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Why We Love It: The simple black silhouette is versatile, while the leather material and gold tone hardware are oh, so luxe. “It can be worn as a crossbody and also as a shoulder bag or a clutch,” according to Blaise. The two separate compartments make it so easy to keep everything organized throughout the day. Plus, the piece includes a snap closure with a strong magnet, a detail Blaise says customers really like. Meanwhile, the round ring hardware lends a cool, edgy feel to the leather carryall.
Who It’s For: Minimalist dressers who gravitate towards timeless wardrobe essentials. And because you can don this bag multiple ways, you’re sure to get plenty of bang for your buck.
Material: Calfskin leather | Closure: Magnetic snap
Best for Travel
Beis Crossbody
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Why We Love It: A leader in the travel space, Béis always churns out excursion-ready bags, such as its Carryall Crossbody. “Customers describe it as ‘the bag they've been waiting for,’ highlighting its comfort, durability, and ability to hold all their essentials without being overly bulky or heavy,” explains Money. The machine washable, cotton accessory is an absolute breeze to care for, especially after weeklong trips to the shore or lake. What’s more, the silhouette features an adjustable crossbody strap, water bottle holder, and pockets galore.
Who It’s For: Not only is it ideal for avid travelers, but Money says this crossbody has received high praise from moms because it also functions as a diaper bag.
Material: Cotton canvas, polyester | Closure: Zip
Best for Vacation
Novum Crafts Round Rattan Bag
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Why We Love It: Rattan is synonymous with summer vacations, and this round silhouette is made for a tropical beach getaway. Made by hand using drying and weaving techniques, this bag takes two to three days to complete. When heading to the beach, house your sunglasses, sunscreen, keys, and wallet in the piece. Then, once the evening rolls around, throw your lipstick and any other night-out essentials inside.
Who It’s For: It’s not the most spacious bag, so if you prefer a roomy, Mary Poppins-esque silhouette, this may not be for you. Otherwise, this summery bag is a must for warm-weather trips.
Material: Wicker, leather | Closure: Snap
Best for Evenings
Anthropologie Clutch
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Why We Love It: Though technically a clutch, this metallic gold accent from Anthropologie comes with a chain strap should you wish to wear it as a crossbody. There’s enough room for everything you’ll need for a night out on the town—think lipstick, powder, keys, and wallet. And it’s not just apt for evening wear—this high-shine bag is also primed for a holiday party (the season will be here before we know it!).
Who It’s For: If you’re looking for a statement-making piece that will coordinate with all your going-out ensembles, this fits the bill. Much like a sparkly minidress, this glistening baby won’t go unnoticed.
Material: Polyurethane | Closure: Frame
Best for Day-to-Night
Minor History Crossbody
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Why We Love It: Luxe, versatile, and classic are a few words that come to mind when describing Minor History’s Arc II Crossbody. And according to Emily Hayward, Associate Vice President of the brand, it’s a favorite due to its adjustable and removable strap, as well as its thick top handle. “It’s a bag I love to use day to night because you can take the strap off, roll it up, and stick it inside the purse and use it as a top handle.” Not to mention, this style comes in seven colors, running the gamut from black to forest green.
Who It’s For: This is an A+ choice for anyone shopping for a luxe, multi-functional crossbody suitable for both day and night.
Material: Leather | Closure: Zip
Best for Active Days
Free People Crossbody
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Why We Love It: Running errands all day will be 10 times less stressful with this FP Movement crossbody in tow. Exuding a sporty vibe, the oversized bag is made from polyester fabric, perfect for potential thunderstorms (after all, it’s nearly impossible to predict the weather these days). The pockets on the exterior make it simple to grab something when you’re on the go. And in rich tangerine, this bag will add the perfect splash of color to every outfit.
Who It’s For: Folks with busy schedules, listen up: This functional bag will see you through whatever the day has in store.
Material: Polyester | Closure: Zip
Best Small
Jacquemus Top Handle Bag
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Why We Love It: French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus arguably pioneered the micro mini bag trend with its Le Chiquito style. But though adorable, we won’t sugarcoat it: this isn’t the most practical bag. However, should you only need to bring the essentials (like keys and an ID) along for a night out, this itty-bitty piece is an apt choice. Coming in black, hot pink, white, and ivory, the purse has a structured flat base and magnetic closure. Wear it around your body with the adjustable strap, or carry it by the top handle.
Who It’s For: Fashion enthusiasts who don’t mind sacrificing a bit of interior space for a high-style bag. Sure, it may be small, but it packs a bold punch.
Material: Leather | Closure: Magnetic-snap flap
Best for the Gym
Athleta Revive Modular Crossbody Bag
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Why We Love It: Always torn on what type of carryall to bring to the gym? We’d argue Athleta’s Revive Modular Crossbody Bag is your best bet. Allow us to explain: The silhouette boasts an AirPod pouch, a built-in pocket for sunglasses, and a thick removal strap. In other words, every gym essential will fit in this crossbody. And with its sporty aesthetic, the bag will coordinate with all your workout looks.
Who It’s For: Gym regulars who have yet to locate the perfect bag. It’s especially great if you tend to grab an iced coffee or a quick bite to eat on the way home from your workout.
Material: Yulex plant-based foam, recycled polyester | Closure: Zip
Best Minimalist
Il Bisonte Crossbody Bag
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Why We Love It: If you’re keen on understated, wear-with-anything silhouettes, set your sights on Il Bisonte’s Flat Vachetta Leather Crossbody Bag. A lesson in minimalism, the piece is available in dreamy neutrals, including black, white, taupe, and a natural shade. The buttery soft leather, too, furthers the bag’s sophisticated appearance. Carry it by the adjustable top handle, or don it as a crossbody—either will look incredibly chic.
Who It’s For: Pared-back dressers who don’t stray far from simple yet sleek accessories.
Material: Leather; cotton lining | Closure: Zip
Best Bucket
Freja New York Bucket Bag
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Why We Love It: “I love a crossbody strap that can double up as a shoulder strap or bags that include an additional strap to switch up the look,” explains Freja's founder, Jenny Lei. One example is the brand’s Bucket Bag, which features a removable leather strap. She adds, “Right now, I think we’re loving simple silhouettes that allow the materials and design to shine, minimal on the hardware and color.” This rich pecan hue, for instance, is sure to resonate with those who stick to subdued neutrals.
Who It’s For: If you favor classic, always-in-style shapes, this Freja bucket bag has your name written all over it.
Material: Pebbled vegan ultra-fiber leather, vegan microsuede | Closure: Magnetic tab
Best Nylon
Everlane Camera Bag
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Why We Love It: We’ll never say no to a bag from Everlane, and that goes for this camera style. Why, you ask? Well, for starters, the exterior is made from GRS-certified recycled nylon, while the lining is made from recycled polyester. In addition to its eco-friendly fabrics, the silhouette is, of course, fitting for a camera, as well as other essentials like a small wallet.
Who It’s For: This is a great style for sustainably conscious shoppers who travel with a camera but don’t like to toss it in an oversized carryall.
Material: GRS-certified recycled nylon, recycled polyester | Closure: Zip
Best Silk
Max Mara Pasticcino Bag
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Why We Love It: Much like a silk slip dress, Max Mara’s jacquard Pasticcino handbag, made from sumptuous material, is ready for swanky evenings out. It’s adorned with a clutch-style kiss lock clasp, but also features a detachable gold chain strap. The ladylike jacquard-knit floral pattern will be a nice contrast against a timeless white or black number.
Who It’s For: Anyone eager to add a playful printed crossbody to their bag collection. Just don’t wash, tumble dry, dry-clean, or clean wet, according to the care instructions. You’ll need to be extra careful with this one.
Material: Silk | Closure: Lock clasp
Best With Top Handle
Polene Numero Un Nano
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Why We Love It: The structured shape with folds is striking yet functional, with ample room to poke around for your wallet, lip gloss, and keys. Plus-size fashion influencer Darlene Lebron considers it her favorite crossbody as of late, too. “I have it in the nude color, and it’s large enough to carry the essentials (I’ve even fit a diaper and wipes) but cute enough to still look elegant for a night out,” she says. “I added a bag extender from Amazon just to give it a little more length for the winter months.” Plus, with the top handle detail, there are multiple ways to sport this bag.
Who It’s For: As Lebron mentions, this multifunctional style is an excellent pick for those looking for a silhouette that can double as a diaper bag.
Material: Certified Italian smooth and textured calf leathers; cotton twill lining | Closure: Magnetic
Best Color Variety
Tory Burch Tote
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Why We Love It: Sometimes, you love a specific bag but can’t quite land on a color. If this sounds all too familiar, Tory Burch’s Mini Ella Bio Tote should be on your radar. It comes in a medley of shades, including black, white, light sand, lime green, coral, bright blue, and more. As for its design, this structured silhouette, complete with a detachable strap, has Tory Burch’s signature logo smack dab in the middle. We can’t help but want it in every hue.
Who It’s For: Are you guilty of buying your favorite items in every color? If yes, we have a feeling you’ll own at least one of these bags.
Material: Plant-based leather alternative | Closure: Magnetic snap
Best Canvas
Veronica Beard Goody Bag
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Why We Love It: ICYMI, canvas bags have entered the chat this summer, capturing the hearts of fashion folks everywhere. Should you be interested in partaking in the trend, this style from Veronica Beard is a polished way to go. With sumptuous leather and durable cotton-blend canvas, it reads a bit more elevated than other silhouettes. Inside is a zipped pocket, while the outside has a roomy compartment. Including a removable leather strap, the bag can be worn as a crossbody, on your shoulder, or by the top handle.
Who It’s For: Anyone interested in dabbling back into the look, which has gone in and out of the trend circuit over the years.
Material: Canvas, leather | Closure: Magnetic
Best Suede
Madewell Crossbody Bag
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Why We Love It: The chilly, brisk months call for a suede bag, such as this chocolate brown style from Madewell. In the perfect medium size, this bag boasts a top handle and a detachable crossbody strap. With a zip closer and interior pocket, it’s a practical look that’s bound to win you over.
Who It’s For: This is a sound choice for anyone itching to introduce texture to their cold-weather bag collection. It’s a stunning piece for both daytime and nighttime activities.
Material: Suede, leather | Closure: Zip
Best Printed
The Drop Crossbody Bag
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Why We Love It: We’re suckers for animal print, as it’s basically a neutral. This saddle-shaped snakeskin bag, for example, will integrate seamlessly into any outfit, be it a monochromatic beige look or a striped matching set (if you’re down to mix patterns). And for under $40, you may be tempted to nab the black style as well.
Who It’s For: If you’re partial to animal motifs, such as snakeskin, this budget-friendly bag will be a mainstay in your closet for years.
Material: Polyurethane, polyester | Closure: Flap
What to Keep in Mind
- Material: Leather is, of course, a no-brainer when it comes to materials. But Sammie Moussallem, a celebrity stylist and founder of Carte Blanche, also invites you to explore other fabrics like canvas and nylon. That’s because you needn’t worry about color transfer when sporting these looks. Or, as he puts it: “When you wear a crossbody, it starts to rub on your jeans, and a lot of times people will notice they’ll get color on the back of their bags.” However, according to the expert, this isn’t the case with canvas and nylon.
- Organization: Moussallem swears by bag organizers, specifically those from Samorga, which are available on Amazon. “They have the best felt organizers, which you can insert in your crossbody bags.” And while we’re on the topic of organizing inside the bag, here’s a helpful tip to keep at top of mind: To avoid damages, Blaise suggests ensuring any types of liquids, from lotions to water bottles, are completely secure.
- Care: When you’re not using your crossbody, Blaise recommends storing it in a dust-free environment or a dust bag. Additionally, if you’re wearing the piece without the strap, Hayward says to avoid throwing it into a ball but rather wrap it up neatly or let it hang free. And in the summer, when you’re sweaty, the expert suggests cleaning the strap with a damp cloth. Finally, Moussallem tells his clients to keep a Tide To Go stain remover and baby wipes in their bag, just in case they need to care for any spills throughout the day.
Your Questions, Answered
How should you wear a crossbody?
Not to point out the obvious, but crossbody bags are traditionally worn, well, across the body. However, that’s not the only way to don the piece, according to Hayward. “The strap is detachable on many of our crossbody bags,” she explains. “So, you can take it off and let the piece rest on your arm or worn as a top handle bag, which is more elevated for nighttime.” What’s more, Hayward often tucks the crossbody strap inside the bag, using the piece as a clutch instead.
What are some important details to look for?
“Key features in a well-designed crossbody bag include an adjustable strap that transforms the way the bag can be worn and a thoughtful design that provides just the right amount of space for essentials without becoming bulky,” explains Money. Zippers, too, are an important detail to look out for, as they’ll keep your belongings safe. “If someone is standing next to you, you’ll want to make sure there’s some type of closure, and it’s secure,” notes Blaise. Moussallem echoes the founder, adding that it’s crucial to opt for a bag with a proper closure, such as a flap or, as noted, a zipper. “When you’re running around with a crossbody bag, you don’t want people to pickpocket.” And if you’re one to travel with, say, a book and water bottle, Hayward says to look out for bags with a wide opening.
Why Shop with Us
Kelsey Stewart is a seasoned fashion writer with bylines featured on The Zoe Report, Bustle, and Editorialist. In terms of bags, she’s up-to-date on the industry’s top trends, must-have silhouettes, and cool emerging designers. For this story, she spoke to experts, including Valéria Blaise, founder of Vavvoune; Elizabeth Money, Béis' senior vice president of brand and creative; Emily Hayward, associate vice president of Minor History; Darlene Lebron, a plus-size fashion influencer; Jenny Lei, founder of Freja New York; and celebrity stylist Sammie Moussallem.
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