Reader Question: Cross-Body Bags

Recently I’ve received a few questions about cross-body bags – here’s a sampling:

Via Jackie: I was wondering if you could recommend cross-body bags? I want to invest in one (maybe up to $2000 USD) that will go with everything, casual to dressed up, and also will last a while – like something I could use for at least a decade and then eventually pass down to a daughter or a niece.

Via Petti: Just wondering if you can recommend a crossbody bag? Can’t be too small as I have a small kid so more things to throw in. Let’s say budget is not the main concern..Just try to look for a stylish yet practical crossbody bag and it seems hard to find…

via Purseblog

I love cross-body bags myself (except when I have to keep getting in and out of cars). Otherwise, they are one of my favorite styles – hands free and so easy to wear. In my opinion there are a few must have attributes in a cross-body. They should have a comfortable strap, be able to hold at least sunglasses, wallet and keys, and not be too wide (a fat, structured bag + wearing it hip level = difficult navigation, in my books).

To that end, here are some of my favorite cross-body bags, in all kinds of shapes, sizes and price points!

1. The Longchamp Le Pliage Cuir

$550, Longchamp

I’ve probably mentioned this bag 10X times on the blog now. I love this bag from Longchamp. I think it’s a fabulous cross-body option, comes in an array of colors of sizes, is from a brand known from good sturdy quality, and would work for a variety of occasions (work, travel, dinner and drinks). The strap is also removable! Here are some photos showing the different sizes.

Prices range from $480 to $630.

Small size (in a variety of colors): $480

Medium size in red,  tan,  indigo : $555

Large size (in a variety of colors): $630.

2. Chloe Marcie

Chloe Marcie, $795

Chloe Marcie, $1395

Like the Le Pliage Cuir, the Chloe Marcie (cross-body) comes in quite a few shapes in sizes. I’ve always have a special spot for this bag. It’s a classic style by Chloe that is brought back each season, and I love that the top flap has a little pocket where you can keep say, your work badge or MetroCard. The designers really put a lot of thought into this bag and I’ve always found it very utilitarian, not to mention chic!

Prices range from $550 to $1650.

Smallest crossbody size (not shown above), in light pink : $550

Small leather crossbody (first photo above), in black, red, pink, blue, tan, white, off-white : $795

Larger crossbody size (second photo shown above), in black, gray and nut, an array of rainbow colors : $1395

Small crossbody style with handles, in black, yellow, gray, tan : $1650

MZ Wallace Paige Cross-body.

MZ Wallace Paige, $295

A friend with young children uses this “Paige” cross-body bag from MZ Wallace, and I’ve always admired it on her. It’s super light, easy to clean (nylon with leather details), and has a ton of pockets inside and outside, as well as a cheerful red lining. It’s perfect for travel and quite secure, but not too casual that it wouldn’t work in a professional situation. And, the price is more reasonable compared to designer options, at $300.

Hermes Evelyne Bag.

A small secret: out of all the Hermes bags I own, I probably wear my Evelyne the most. It’s just so easy to throw on for any casual outing, and the dark color makes it low key enough for work.

My Evelyne is the PM III size and style, and you can read my original review for more details.

FEED Functional Tote.

FEED Functional Tote, $91 (on sale)

All right, so this isn’t leather and probably won’t work for all occasions (in particular professional dress) but I had to give a shout out for this bag that also supports a good cause. I love this cross-body FEED tote and I have a smaller version that I use all the time. The best part? You can find this colorful version above on sale at Bloomingdales for under $100. Plus even though you pay the sale price, the full donation amount still goes to the FEED organization.

I could probably blather on about more cross-body options and continue to discover more great styles for hours – but these are a collection of some of my favorites that I can personally vouch for. I hope that this is helpful for those looking for a nice cross-body option out there, and please share your own favorites! I am sure there is a perfect style for everybody out there.