Bazaar Editors Can’t Get Enough of These 16 Leather Shoulder Bags
You’ll never regret investing in these sophisticated, functional styles
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No matter how many times it’s reimagined, a leather shoulder bag is one of the few bag designs that will truly never go out of style. From iconic shapes like Carrie Bradshaw’s Fendi Baguette to this season’s brown suede and sculptural east-west silhouettes, there are a plethora of timeless options that deserve a prime spot in your rotation.
On top of being incredibly versatile, the best leather shoulder bags will also age like fine wine and can be passed down for generations. To help make your shopping easier, we’ve compiled our all-time favorite iterations worth adding to any collection—from sleek totes to oversized hobo bags and eye-catching mini styles. Many options are designer, while a few are wallet-friendly in case you’re seeking high-quality on a budget. Below, find the 16 best leather shoulder bags that have earned our seal of approval.
“The Jackie is an iconic style from Gucci for a reason,” says Julie Tong, Bazaar’s senior commerce content lead. “While it’s taken many different forms and shapes over the years, the name nods to its enduring legacy. The bag fits perfectly around my shoulder and goes with every outfit I wear—no matter if it’s just jeans and a T-shirt or a little LBD for a fancy girls’ night out. I love its crescent shape and minimalist, gold piston hardware. Plus, you can monogram the strap to make it yours forever. I promise it’s a timeless investment you won’t regret.”
Dimensions: 7.5" H x 10.8 " W x 1.6" D
When in search of premium leather shoulder bags, we also frequently turn to sustainable, London-based brand DeMellier (even royals like Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton are fans). “I had a chance to see the newest addition to DeMellier’s family of shoulder bags a few months back, and have been eagerly awaiting this style’s launch since,” says Senior Commerce Manager Jaimie Potters. “I love the functionality of its elongated silhouette, and how I’ll be able to throw this on over everything from puffer coats in the winter to plain white T-shirt ensembles come summer.”
Dimensions: 5.4" H x 10.2" W x 4.8" D
Courtesy of Madewell’s collaboration with contemporary jewelry brand Agmes, this arty cherry-red purse is the perfect accoutrement to combat winter dreariness. “I thought that a bright bag might be difficult to style, but I’ve been wearing it nearly every day,” says Freund. “The silver clasp is the kind of special detail that I look for in my bags. And you’d be surprised at how much fits inside.”
Dimensions: 5.5" H x 8.5" W x 2.75" D
Customer review: “It’s a perfect size, the suede is beautiful and the buckle is so chic. The inside is very simple with just one very small additional pocket, but the outside back of the bag also has a separate flat pocket that is perfect for an iPhone.”
The ideal mix between a work tote and everyday shoulder bag, this new cowhide leather style from Longchamp can easily work for countless occasions. “I’m obsessed with my smaller Le Roseau S handbag, but I can picture this larger version being ideal for days at the office, or when I need to carry around more items,” says contributing editor Tatjana Freund. “I’m always impressed with Longchamp’s quality. They use some of the best leather on the market, for a fraction of what other brands charge.”
Dimensions: 11.8" H x 10.1" W x 5.1" D
It’s no secret that Cuyana makes some of the best work bags on the market, but don’t overlook its selection of dressier styles, either. “Though Cuyana is synonymous with work totes, I’m here to sing the praises of its Celestia Shoulder Bag,” says Fashion and Luxury Commerce Editor Sarah Maberry. “The crescent-shaped hobo fits all my night-out essentials without looking bulky, and the sculptural buckle adds an extra something special. I’m itching to buy the coordinating Celestia hoop earrings, too.”
Dimensions: 8" H x 14" W x 1.5" D
Bottega Veneta Small Hop Intrecciato Leather Hobo Bag
Bottega Veneta’s exquisite leather goods are simply unmatched. Done in the brand’s signature Intrecciato weave—which translates to the Italian word for “braided”—this sturdy hobo bag style is worth every penny.
Dimensions: 9.4" H x 21.3" W x 5.1" D
Prefer a more classic hobo silhouette? “Mansur Gavriel always has incredible quality and luxurious leather; I love this oversized hobo shoulder bag for its sleek look and rich pomegranate color,” says Bazaar Senior Designer Olivia Alchek. “It’s large enough to treat it like a Mary Poppins purse, where I can throw anything I could possibly need inside. That’s exactly what I want in the perfect everyday handbag.”
Dimensions: 8.3" H x 11" W x 6.3" D
Miu Miu created what we can safely say is this season’s most coveted suede shoulder bag. Landing somewhere between a classic tote and weekender bag, it’s the perfect size to hold a laptop and any other daily necessities. Adding on some bag charms wouldn’t go amiss either.
Dimensions: 12.2" H x 15.75" W x 5.1" D
If you’re opposed to genuine leather, this recycled vegan leather tote is a true winner. “This my everyday work bag,” says Fashion and Luxury Commerce Editor Elly Leavitt. “It can surprisingly hold a lot–including heavier items, like my laptop and a book for the subway–and has a snap at the top for security. The woven faux leather finish coupled with the more delicate straps makes it look way more expensive than its price point, too.”
Dimensions: 11" H x 17" W x 2" D
Make a splash with Sandy Liang’s shiny leather micro bag. “See this adorable little black bag adorned with a mini leather bow? Very demure, very mindful, very cutesy,” says Alchek. “I love this fun-sized top-handle bag that’s just large enough to fit all of my nighttime essentials. It’s chic, sleek, and can pair well with anything from jeans to a party dress.”
Dimensions: 8" H x 14" W x 1.5" D
Our obsession with east-west bags isn’t going anywhere. This structural purse from Alaïa—also offered in black—is one of our favorite new styles to enter the mainstream. It fits a surprising amount, and the rounded shoulder straps never dig in.
Dimensions: 4.3" H x 13" W x 3.9" D
Over 20 years after Carrie Bradshaw helped ascend the Fendi Baguette to icon status, the hero style is still going strong. With so many color, material, and size variations available, you can find a version that perfectly complements your wardrobe.
Dimensions: 5.9" H x 10.6" W x 2.4" D
Here’s a staple shoulder bag that’ll go easy on your wallet. “The leather Status Anxiety uses feels super high quality, especially when you compare it to other affordable luxury handbags that clock in at the same price,” says Maberry. “Plus, the brand’s minimalist silhouettes are the type that outlast short-lived trends without becoming boring.”
Dimensions: 5.7" H x 11.6" W x 2.7" D
In case you missed it, all the cool girls are wearing Dragon Diffusion’s Santa Croce tote right now. “I’ve been dreaming about this Dragon Diffusion bag for years,” says Alchek. “I love the woven texture and the rich green color gives it so much character. It’s so unique as a statement accessory yet could pair well with so many different outfits.” Even more, the calf leather style is made to order, ensuring no materials are wasted in the manufacturing process.
Dimensions: 9.25" H x 17.3" W
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen popularized Balenciaga’s City Bag in the noughties, and its revival this past season has taken a whole new generation by storm. The slouchy, embellished style only looks better with wear, meaning it’s one luxury purchase you won’t need to be precious about.
Dimensions: 9.4" H x 15.1" W x 5.3" D
Every brand from Miu Miu to Chanel are bringing back the utilitarian cargo bag, but we’re especially enamored by this elegant take from Chloé. Sharp gold buckle details and a statement strap give it a sophisticated edge.
Dimensions: 6.5" H x 13.4" W x 5.9" D
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