Best Crossbody Bags for Every Occasion: Top Picks and Reviews
We can't deny that there's something trendy yet practical about a good crossbody bag. They come in all shapes and sizes, are made from various materials, and are designed to hold all kinds of objects. It's a diverse market, and some bags may look wildly different from each other.
There are back pouches, front pouches, and extra pouches, but if it goes over one shoulder and the opposite hip, it's a crossbody bag.
They're not a new accessory either. People have been using some form of crossbody bag for years to transport items from Point A to Point B, whether it be seed for sowing in the field or for keeping valuables close to the chest. In the 1950s and ’60s, the bag made a splash with the youth, who were looking for convenient ways to carry fewer items around.
They're varied, they're versatile, and there are just too many to choose from. That's why, in this article, we've done the hard work for you and will present the best crossbody bags out there for your needs, whatever they may be.
Top Picks for Best Crossbody Bags
Here are our top picks for must-have crossbody bags:
Canvelle Crossbody Tote Bag
Why save the best for last when you can start with a bang? Canvelle's extensive catalog of crossbody bags is incredible, and it's definitely the best overall. They excel at making bags for women. You'd be here for hours if we had to go into all the details of their range, so we'll just focus on a real standout: tote bags.
Canvelle's totes are stellar. Each crossbody bag is made from durable, resilient poly material, sustainably crafted from recycled materials. Around 47 recycled plastic bottles go into making each bag, and all are assembled in their Denver workshop.
Inside every water-resistant lining and zippered top of each tote bag, you'll find a padded cell phone pocket, a key clip, and a padded inner pocket. Medium and larger totes have additional open pockets for more storage.
On the outside, each tote comes in a range of fun colors and designs. Extra-soft poly handles and an adjustable crossbody strap give you a variety of carry options. Canvelle doesn't stop at crossbody bags either; they offer a range of other accessories like sling bags. From a black crossbody bag to a black sling bag, Canvelle uses both color and design to make a statement.
All in all, from variety to extra functionality (and some killer fashion sense on the side), there's very little that doesn't make Canvelle the best crossbody bag brand out there.
Baggu Crossbody Bag
Baggu is a brand built on playful creativity. Started by Emily Sugihara in 2007, Baggu began as a way to sell fun, reusable shopping bags. A lot has happened since then, and the business has expanded its reach from San Diego to around the world.
Baggu's crossbody options feature designer bags crafted from nylon and available in a range of fun patterns and colors. If that's not your style, they have plenty of muted colors too. In keeping with their playful spirit, Baggu often collaborates with well-known franchises.
Baggu specializes in larger bags, often with exterior pockets, perfect for loose items during travel and everyday use. Their straps are long, adjustable, and designed for comfort. They're fun, funky, and constantly innovating.
Clare V. Midi Sac
So, maybe nylon and other synthetic fibers aren't your thing, and you want the reassuring natural feel of leather. Clare V.'s Midi Sac bags have got you covered.
Style is the name of the game with these smaller, expertly crafted crossbody bags. While they may carry a slightly higher price tag, every bag is made with genuine leather, whether rattan, specchio, or smooth leather, and secured with a zipper closure.
Perhaps the biggest feature of a Midi Sac bag is the option to choose your own customizable strap. You can choose a Shortie Strap for easy carrying or a Chain strap for stylish mobility. These bags are perfect for showing off your style on any outing, with just enough personal storage space for travel.
Madewell Transport Camera Bag
Here's another leather crossbody bag that would make an excellent addition to any stylish outfit. The Madewell Transport Camera Bag uses sustainable, semi-vegetable tanned leather to craft a sturdy bag that's perfect for keeping your camera safe.
You also have the freedom of choice between leather straps and the comfort of a wide-webbed one. An exterior slide pocket makes a perfect pouch for extra storage, such as an on-the-go mirror or travel tickets.
Athleta Excursion Crossbody Bag
Nobody wants to be caught in the rain, least of all with their valuables exposed. Athleta's Excursion Crossbody Bag is the one to save for a rainy day. Its sturdy polyester fabric finish is water-repellent, durable, and lightweight. The lightweight ripstop also helps the bag resist tears and snags that come with everyday use.
Combine this with its compact size and athletic design, and you've got the perfect crossbody bag for running errands and participating in all sorts of outdoor activities.
Baggallini Everywhere Bag
With a name like the Everywhere Bag, you better believe that Baggallini has designed this crossbody piece for all occasions, day to night.
You can get a lot out of this bag, thanks in no small part to its storage. In addition to the interior organization and multifunctional pockets, the bag sports a grab-and-go phone pocket and numerous external ones too. The strap is similarly versatile, with a 12-inch drop length.
The Everywhere Bag's nylon fabric is crafted to maintain its clean look for as long as possible, making it just as comfortable indoors as out. It's tough to beat this bag for sheer versatility.
Seth Milot Day VI Bag
Seth Milot delivers again with another exclusive and ever-so-elegant design. The VI crossbody bag is crafted from the finest Nappa leather and intricately stitched in an understated design. It's made for occasions when luxury shines, but that doesn't mean you can't use it every day.
Its box-shaped silhouette adds a touch of class to any outfit, and the adjustable (and removable) strap gives you the freedom for some personalized styling options.
And did we mention that it's all held together with Seth Milot's signature golden clasp design?
Tumi Charm Pouch
The crossbody bag umbrella is truly broad, and the pint-sized Tumi Charm Pouch is a perfect example. It's a bag's bag and can be attached to any larger companion thanks to its mini carabiner clip. Its nylon and leather materials make it a flexible addition to any look.
Even though it's small and slim, there are still multiple pockets and space for all those extras that won't fit in your regular bag. It’s perfect for that long trip or your everyday journey.
Longchamp Le Pliage Cuir Crossbody Bag
Longchamp is a brand known for its elegance and timeless designs. Just when you think you can't top leather for luxury, the Parisian designers add a plush suede interior into the mix. Le Pliage Cuir is a bag for everyday use and those special occasions when you want to make a statement.
Its color options are muted to match most outfits, and the exterior leather snap-tab pocket seals the deal (and the bag too). It's both a fashion statement and a crossbody bag.
Bellroy City Pouch
Bellroy's City Pouch is a crossbody bag for people who like to get things done. It's all about practicality, protection, and comfort.
Don't let the City Pouch's deceptively small frame fool you. It has plenty of room for all sorts of everyday items. The recycled polyester bag comes complete with mesh slip pockets, expansion gussets for extra room, and even an interior padded divider for efficient storage of electronics. An adjustable (and comfortable) webbing strap keeps the bag secure.
It's a working bag for the city and ready for anything you can throw at it.
Ruskin Crossbody Bag
Ruskin's bags are the perfect blend of sleek and elegant. They're the perfect partner for formal occasions and any outing where style is a must.
These quality Italian bags are crafted with a full-grain calf leather exterior, understated metal hardware, and suede lining. A magnetic flap closure snaps smartly into place over everything. You can either rely on the adjustable leather strap or detach it and use the carry handle. All of this is combined with a muted color palette for some true minimalist depth.
What to Look For in a Crossbody Bag
There's a lot to consider when searching for the perfect crossbody bag for you. Then again, there are a lot of crossbody bags out there. Here are some considerations that can help you narrow things down.
Capacity and Size
The size of a crossbody bag affects how much you can carry around and how easily. When looking for a bag, consider your needs. Bag sizes vary widely from 1-liter carry capacity all the way up to 10 liters. Bags intended for daily use and travel may require more storage space, compartments, and slip pockets than the bag you're taking just for a night out.
Material and Durability
Crossbody bags are made from a wide variety of materials and fabrics, but ideally, they should be tough and resilient for regular use. Popular materials for everyday bags are usually synthetic (nylon and polyester, sometimes recycled), while suede and leather are usually reserved for more premium designs.
The body of the bag isn't the only concern—the quality of a bag’s zippers, buckles, and clasps should be given just as much consideration. In all cases, you should choose well-known brands with a reputation for quality, no matter the bag type.
Comfort and Fit
Do you plan on using your crossbody bag regularly? Will it be a part of your long-distance trips or day-to-day activities? In that case, it's important that you choose one that's designed for comfort.
Formal bags may be nice for a night out, but everyday crossbody bags require comfortable fabrics, supportive and adjustable straps, and padded sections so they don’t feel like an additional burden. Ergonomic design also plays a big role in comfort. Choose bags that conform to the shape of your body and distribute their carry weight evenly.
Organization and Accessibility
It's good to stay organized. You may not need a bag with a hundred various compartments and pockets, but some division of space is never a bad thing. External slip pockets can store important and frequently accessed items, while padded dividers can provide added protection for tablets and smartphones.
External pockets should always have some secure method of closure, be it a zipper or clasp. They’re also a good way of keeping your daily life in order.
Style and Design
Crossbody bags are both fashionable and practical. Some bags veer more toward one purpose than the other. Consider your need for the bag. A formal bag made from lambskin leather will make a very different statement than a durable polyester fiber. Brands know that style often dictates use and will adjust their designs to fit the occasion.
At the end of the day, you want the bag you choose to be a reflection of you, your personal style, tastes, and needs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Crossbody Bag
Still unsure of how to shop for your perfect crossbody partner? Here's a quick list of tips to help:
- Consider what you'll use the bag for. Will you primarily be running errands or hitting the town for the evening?
- How much stuff are you looking to fit inside? Consider the weight and the amount of what you need to carry.
- Choose the best materials for the job. Canvas will look out of place at a dinner party, but leather may get scuffed during travel.
- Consider materials that enhance comfort during use and make accessibility easier.
- Choose the style that matches you, your budget, and your own aesthetics.
One in the Bag
Ultimately, the right crossbody bag is going to be the one that's right for you. Our top-rated picks above are the perfect way to find a bag for any occasion and any style. Be it elegant crossbody leather bags or rugged polyester mesh, there's a little something for everyone.
What do you look for in a crossbody bag? What brands do you swear by, and what bag would you never be seen without? Let us know about your crossbody bag adventures in the comments section below. If you'd like to stay in the loop on what's hot and new, consider subscribing to our newsletter and follow us for more articles on fashion and accessories.
FAQs
Are crossbody bags good for travel?
Absolutely. Many crossbody bags, including Baggu, Bellroy, and Madewell, are ideal for your travel needs. It's best to choose tough bags with enough pockets and dividers for easy storage.
Why do people love crossbody bags?
There's something about the elegance and style of a crossbody bag. They are also portable and practical, and certainly less bulky than other types of bags. They’re adaptable, secure, and ready for anything.
Are crossbody bags good for your back?
Many crossbody bags, especially those with ergonomic support, are ideal for those with back pain. They distribute weight more evenly across your body, which can help maintain posture and prevent back pain.
What is the proper way to wear a crossbody bag?
Crossbody bags are typically worn across the body (hence the name) with one strap going over the shoulder and the other over the opposite hip. Their straps are designed to fit diagonally.