We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
The best crossbody bags to buy now
Functional and fashionable, the crossbody is an essential accessory in anyone’s wardrobe
Often overlooked and wildly underrated, the crossbody bag is both style, and substance. Whilst over the shoulder 'It' bags (the Gucci Jackie, the Chanel Flap) and classic top handle styles (a Vuitton Speedy or a Lady Dior) have all respectfully cemented themselves in the handbag hall of fame, there still seems to be a gap in the market for the crossbody bag to emerge.
With brands such as Chanel, Dior and Balenciaga showing their iterations of crossbody bags in the recent autumn/winter 2025 show season, perhaps this is soon to become the year of the crossbody.
"Choosing a style that complements your frame is key, and it’s also worth experimenting with strap lengths – whether you prefer it at your hip, waist, or slightly higher or lower," says Net-a-Porter’s fashion director, Kay Barron on how to nail purchasing and styling up a crossbody bag. "Also, ensure the strap isn’t too tight, as it becomes restrictive and uncomfortable. The fabric can vary based on the occasion; for a more casual look, canvas or suede is a great option, while leather can look a little smarter. This style from The Row is timeless, features adjustable straps and sits at an angle that flatters my frame, making it perfect for everyday wear."
Be it commuting or travelling, Harper's Bazaar's contributing fashion editor Charlie Harrington also attests to the versatility of a crossbody bag. "There is nothing quite as helpfully hands-free as a perfect crossbody bag. I like a subtle modern take on a Seventies-inspired shape, like the Balenciaga Bel Air. The ideal crossbody is something with a handle, and then a strap long enough to go across the body, or be adjusted to one shoulder."
Be it suede, fringed, plum or pistachio, here are 15 of the very best crossbody bags to invest in now and wear forever.
Best crossbody bags to buy now
A favourite of Bazaar editor Charlie Harrington, the Balenciaga Bel Air crossbody is a subtle piece, that still makes a statement. "The Bel Air easily works diagonally over a relaxed tailored suit with a T-shirt, or adds a surprising colour tone to a double denim ensemble," she tells us. "For me, it hits all the marks, and comes in a timelessly chic burgundy. Winning!"
With the option to carry via top handle or crossbody, Gucci’s Blondie features the house's iconic GG logo front and centre in a deep olive shade. A timeless combination of suede and leather, take cues from the Seventies feeling of the Blondie; wear with aviators, denim and platform wedges to ace a retro-inspired look.
After its debut in the spring/summer 2005 collection by then creative director Phoebe Philo, the Chloe Paddington was the bag to be seen with. Spouting off the original came iterations of the classic Paddington, including this crossbody saddle. The French fashion house has reintroduced the Paddington at the recent AW25 show in Paris, so there’s no better time to invest in an original; there are over 1000 second hand Paddingtons on Vestiare Collective alone.
Alaïa has churned out several now iconic accessories since Pieter Mulier’s reign at the house – think those ballet flats, the Le Teckel bag and of course, the heart shaped Le Coeur. Produced in every fabrication – from pillarbox red leather to black studded diamanté – this denim version of Le Coeur feels fun, yet polished.
Just like flared and skinny jeans, it is time to revel in sartorial nostalgia – we predict that the Mulberry Alexa will also soon have its resurgence. Named after indie sleaze poster girl Alexa Chung, the bag boasts a plaited top handle and a detachable crossbody strap. Take styling cues from its namesake and pair with ballet flats, vintage inspired knits and worn-in leather jackets.
If you’re in the market for a timeless crossbody bag, investing in Celine is a no-brainer. With all the components for a classic, this Victoire style comes in the house’s monogrammed canvas, finished off with Celine’s Triomphe motif and a gold chain strap. Just over 30 centimetres across, the roomy bag also boasts inner compartments, making it the perfect crossbody to pack your office essentials in style.
When it comes to accessories that truly catch the eye, look no further than Bottega Veneta. Their “Intrecciato” woven leather bags know no bounds, coming in numerous colours and styles to suit any taste, with several crossbody options to pick from. We love this mini monochrome striped pouch; sling it over a simple T-shirt and jeans to inject some personality.
Loewe’s Puzzle bag burst onto the scene in 2015. Since then, it has remained instantly recognisable for its angular form, and eternally covetable. This version of the Puzzle is even more malleable than the original; with a narrow crossbody strap in a versatile forest green colourway, it is ideal for weekend getaways with limited luggage space.
Founded in 2016, this Seoul-based accessories brand is one to watch. High quality materials come in fluid shapes, reinterpreting the norm of the crossbody form. I can personally vouch for the Brot – it is not only incredibly roomy, but comfortable enough for all day wear with its thick strap and leather smooth enough to curve around the body.
The ever-pioneering Miuccia Prada first released the Vela bag as a nylon rucksack back in 1984, using an industrial, water resistant material in a luxury accessory. The Vela range from Prada proves that fashion can also be functional – this Messenger bag is a piece of fashion history, and will certainly stand the test of time.
Minimalists, look away. Trust no one other than Alessandro Michele to combine suede fringing with studs, eyelets and raffia embroidered with cherries. The ideal accessory ahead of festival season, this crossbody ticks all the boxes of the bohemian trend, and is big enough to slip your phone, lip balm and cardholder inside. After all, what more do you need for a trip to Worthy Farm?
French brand Soeur truly exceed when it comes to high quality fabrications at an achievable price point. Their smooth leather crossbody bag is no exception – in an artful asymmetric shape, the strap length can be altered to suit crossbody or shoulder wear. Coming in five different colours, this creamy pistachio shade also has a removable inner pouch.
Jonathan Anderson has translated the cut-out detailing of a classic Penny loafer into a crossbody bag, and unexpectedly, it works. Coming in numerous shades of suede and leather, this lemon hue is a welcome injection of colour, perfect for the spring/summer season.
Khaite combines canvas with leather trim in an undeniably chic take on the humble crossbody. Surprisingly roomy, it is large enough to comfortably fit your water bottle and iPad. And, if you don’t want to take the risk on a lighter fabric, their Augustina style also comes in black leather.
Givenchy’s slouchy Voyou bag has been shrunk down and rolled up into a cyclical crossbody. In an aged calfskin leather, the Voyou Roller feels Western inspired, so consider styling it with some double denim, plaid and a statement buckled belt. Cowboy hat optional.
