banner

News

Jul 22, 2023

26 Best Cross Body Bags for Women in 2023

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

And that hands-free bliss.

The best crossbody bags combine style, functionality, and versatility so seamlessly, I rely on them more than any other style in my fashion editor's closet. Other fashion experts often choose crossbody bags above all others when they’re on the go, as season after season of fashion week street style proves. The hands-free silhouette is just downright convenient: "When I reach for a crossbody, it's because I want something light and compact that will carry me through my day with ease," agrees Karla Gallardo, co-founder and chief executive officer of Cuyana.

Slinging on the right crossbody can steer an outfit in an unexpected direction while stowing the 24/7 essentials (phone, wallet, keys). "If your style skews a bit more minimal or neutral, crossbody bags are ultimate accessory to add a bit of playfulness to your wardrobe," Gallardo adds.

Where to start? Leather crossbody bags from Bottega Veneta to Ree Projects have a proverbial pop of color for any aesthetic. The Chanel 22 crossbody is a daydream-come-true for fashion obsessives. Straw bags from Loewe and Cesta Collective have a sun-kissed feel that's perfect for summer. And for minimalists who live the quiet luxury lifestyle, sleek leather bags from Saint Laurent, Polene, and Savette are a must.

The following guide to crossbody bags includes styles I’ve tested and carry constantly, plus the most covetable designer bags and top-reviewed styles from other shoppers. From classic to colorful, shop the 26 best crossbody bags ahead.

More often than not, I'm carrying a black leather crossbody with gold hardware. It's a style that's elegant enough to carry to work and easy enough for weekend errands.

Clare V.'s Louis bag has a vintage shape with all the modern necessities. Mainly, space for an iPhone 14 and various beauty minis, plus an external pocket. While I usually carry it by the included leather strap, there are also interchangeable options in different textures and colors for a personalized touch.

Dimensions: 8.5" W x 7.25" H x 3.5" D

Materials: Pebbled leather

Models swung miniature Chanel 22 bags from their top handles with aspirational abandon while striding down the runway. I wanted to follow suit immediately after seeing the style up close. It combines the label's signature diamond-stitched calfskin with modern double straps, plus an attitude that makes carrying a petite crossbody bag feel so much cooler.

Dimensions: 7.8 × 7.4 × 2.3 in

Materials: Shaded Calfskin & Gold-Tone Metal

Spotted: A nice save with the potential to become your most-carried bag this spring. In both this dreamy blue and a classic black leather, it has a classic look to pair with spring dresses, suit sets, and even beach cover-ups as soon as it arrives.

Dimensions: 17.5cm x 23.5cm x 6.8cm

Materials: Leather

Uniqlo's mini shoulder bags were one of the most in-demand items of 2023's first quarter, according to the Lyst index. I have a feeling it'll stay in rotation for much longer, thanks to its compact design, various colors, impulse-worthy price point. I alternate between wearing it slung diagonally across my chest and clipped around my hips as a belt bag.

Dimensions: W 11''x H 6.7'' x D 3.9''

Materials: Nylon

Shopper review: "It's great for people on the go. Fits a lot of small items."

Sleek, compact, and delightfully minimal, this JW Pei crossbody will be in your everyday rotation from the moment it lands on your doorstep.

Dimensions: 8.65 x 2.36 x 5.31 inches

Shopper review: "Absolutely love the size of the purse and its durability. I can wear it anywhere. Will definitely recommend this brand to everyone!"

I haven't been able to get this Polene bag out of my head since it first dropped on the site. (Other fans of the French handbag label are on the same wavelength—several colors have already sold out.) It has that neutral, wear-with-anything leather, but the asymmetric curved shape and hardware feel so unique.

Dimensions: 17 x 24 x 7cm

Materials: Leather, suede

Crescent bags are having a moment; Cuyana's double moon bag is the best entry point. Even when bag trends move in another direction, this one will stay in rotation with its arched layered pockets and roomy interior.

Dimensions: H 7 in. x W 8.5 in. x D 3.5 in.

Material: Leather

Ree Projects' made-in-Italy bags come in minimalist, structured shapes. When you're getting dressed in a hurry, this bag can top any and all outfits. Inside, you'll find two card slots to keep you organized. And on days when you simply can't squeeze everything into a small bag, the same silhouette comes in a larger tote size. When a bag is so versatile, why not double up?

Dimensions: 7.5"W x 5.25"H x 2.25"D

Materials: Leather

I appreciate how this bite-sized Brandon Blackwood crossbody has metal feet to keep it upright—not that I'd ever want to put it down. The croc-embossed navy also feels like a neutral with personality.

Dimensions: H 6" x L 7" x D 3.25"

Materials: Croc-embossed leather

Want to keep things light? The crossbody phone bag is your best bet. This one is available in eight different leathers and carries exactly what you think, with several slots for cards and another pocket for cash or receipts.

Dimensions: 4.75"W x 1.25"D x 7"H

Material: Leather

Shopper review: "It's exactly what I've been looking for in a small crossbody phone purse. Simple yet professional to carry essentials when at work. I have a case on my phone and it usually doesn't fit, but this was perfect."

A little soft, a little structured, Mansur's best-selling cloud clutch can also be worn as a crossbody or belt bag. "Mini" is in the name, but the brand says it can stow a phone, sunglasses, headphones, card holder, and on-the-go beauty products. Right now, it comes in nine long-lasting leathers ranging from green to pink to caramel brown—but it's known to sell out.

Dimensions: W 9.5" x H 5" x D 2.75"

Material: Leather

Shopper review: "Love, love this cute little bag. Super functional while being whimsical."

This genius convertible bag is a crossbody, a top-handle, and a backpack all in one. The straps are easy to transition from style to style, and it's organized inside with two interior pockets and an exterior cardholder. In sum? Go-getters will never waste time waffling on their accessories with this bag in their closet.

Dimensions: 7.9" x 8.3"

Materials: Leather

Shopper review: "It gives just a pop of color to your outfits and fits everything I need and still have room just in case I want to add a bit more."

Dozens of designers have made their takes on the camera bag, but Marc Jacobs' is the one I love most. There's the widest variety for the outside—fifteen shades of quality leather—plus a structured interior with a pocket for stowing anything from cash to hair ties to coffee punch cards. When you're ready for something new, there's a suite of strap options to swap for the original.

Materials: Saffiano leather

Dimensions: 7in. L x 2in. D x 4in. H

From the sidewalks outside New York Fashion Week shows to the endless stream of videos in my TikTok feed, Coach's puffed-up Tabby bag is being carried everywhere. It'll provide a sample of fashion's obsession with all things puffy, but it's grounded in a versatile shape and color that will outlast the trend.

Dimensions: 7 1/4" (L) x 4" (H) x 2 1/2" (W)

Materials: Nappa leather

Shopper review: "So cute! Especially to make quick trips to the store etc. It holds more than what you'd think. I managed to fit my lipstick, deodorant, perfume, lotion, pills, cards, iPhone 12 pro and keys with some space left! Closes just fine. I love it!"

Bottega Veneta's Intrecciato bags invite you to get colorful with your crossbody while still staying practical. Right now, their signature woven leather comes in shades like lavender, grass green, and bright white, in square crossbody silhouettes you won't second-guess on the storage front.

Dimensions: W 4.7" x L 3.3" x D 2"

Materials: Leather

Saint Laurent just introduced this sleek bucket bag for summer 2023. Inside, you'll find a small zipped purse for staying organized. I have a feeling this will reach It-Bag status like the Icare tote bag before it: Blackpink's Rosé has already been spotted carrying the new style.

Dimensions: W 9.5" x L 10" x D 4.4"

Materials: Leather

I named this Silver & Riley style my best everyday bag and I still stand by it. The leather is buttery soft and supple, the shape is beyond elegant, and the proportions are ideally sized. I have enough room inside to carry a paperback book alongside my phone, wallet, keys, and makeup when I'm commuting.

Dimensions: 11"W x 8"H x 5.5"D

Materials: Leather

Shopper review: "I absolutely love this bag! Beautiful rich color, I also checked out the red and it's just as beautiful. Even more gorgeous in person."

This mini bag has the same curved shape and gold hardware as Gucci's original and widely beloved Jackie silhouette. The only differences are the scaled-down size—with space to fit your true essentials—and removable crossbody strap for hands-free carrying.

Dimensions: 7.5"W x 5.1"H x 1.2"D

Materials: Beige/ebony GG Supreme canvas, with brown leather trim

The next time I go out with friends, I plan on channeling Taylor Swift by carrying one of Paco Rabanne's chainmail bags. The entirely metallic construction can make the whole place shimmer—and stash all the small essentials for an evening out.

Dimensions: H 7.1in x W 9.4in

Materials: Silver chainmail

Savette is a brand BAZAAR editors can't stop talking about. Nearly every style from this new label is designed for a crossbody carry. Designer Amy Zurek perfected the rectangular, top-flap bag here, with sculptural hardware, an adjustable strap, and a spacious compartment.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: D 2.4in x H 5.3in x W 7.5in

Halie LeSavage is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's BAZAAR. Her style reporting covers everything from reviewing the best designer products to profiling emerging brands and designers. Previously, she was the founding retail writer at Morning Brew and a fashion associate at Glamour.

14 Houseware Pieces for an Instant Home Refresh

13 Designer Backpacks That Are Fully Grown Up

13 Sneakers BAZAAR Editors Wear 24/7

Summer's 25 Best One-Piece Swimsuits

Fashion's Collective Crush on the Alaïa Heart Bag

14 Wedding Guest Dresses for Last Minute RSVPs

19 Fashion-Forward Rehearsal Dinner Dresses

26 Chunky Rings to Elevate Your Jewelry Game

Nice Saves: 11 Must-Have Items on Sale This Week

15 Best Summer Sneakers for Women

Shop 22 Chic Swimsuits for Big Busts

15 Fresh Ways to Wear a Designer Fanny Pack

If your style skews a bit more minimal or neutral, crossbody bags are ultimate accessory to add a bit of playfulness to your wardrobe Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Shopper review: Dimensions: Shopper review: " Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Material: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Material: Shopper review: Dimensions: Material: Shopper review: Dimensions: Materials: Shopper review: Materials: Dimensions: Dimensions: Materials: Shopper review: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Shopper review: Dimensions: Materials: Dimensions: Materials: Material: Dimensions:
SHARE