Why everyone is carrying cross body bags
Arket Packable Crossbody Bag
Have you arrived at the hands-free stage of life yet? This Mother’s Day, I received something useful. I wasn’t handed the standard gift-wrapped cliché of scented candles, or a bouquet. My khaki, nylon Eastpak cross body bag (the perfect size for the accompanying bar of Tony’s Chocolonely) was decidedly un-mumsy but, I was thrilled. Durable, utilitarian and practical (Eastpak used to make bags for the US Military) I could see it fitting into my life and wardrobe immediately.
As much of our lives has been streamlined, miniaturised and computerised, our essential accoutrements take up less space. Once, we might have carried around a ton of objects in our bag: an address book or Filofax, A-Z, bulky purse, camera, Walkman etc. but mobile phones have absorbed most of these functions, cards and mobile banking have largely replaced cash; ergo, bags can be lighter and less obtrusive.
City Pouches, Cross Body, Travel or Sling, these bags have numerous monikers (the worst is ‘man bag’) but these names don’t accurately convey the significance of these understated accessories. I prefer Portable Pocket (all busy women know the importance of pockets.) And they aren’t a trivial or incidental thing, or as their names might suggest, used primarily for vacations or sightseeing. Once you reach the point where carrying one of these works for you, it signifies an important life stage.
Cross-body bags at Baggu
As pupils and students, we lugged around satchels and rucksacks rammed with school books and homework. In professional life, we heaved something more substantial to protect laptops or folders. Family life and motherhood often meant carrying a baby on one shoulder and a bag on the other stuffed with all the kit and caboodle required to care for another small person. But as all of these life responsibilities subside, the load lessens. We literally have less baggage.
Portable Pockets are the polar opposite to designer handbags big enough for their own parking space and with a price tags to match. Understated and virtually invisible, there are no lary designer toggles or insignia to signal success, status or wealth. Pockets also have a surprisingly political history and the inclusion or exclusion of pockets in garments reveal a gendered bias. The Rational Dress Movement – around the time of the Suffragettes – saw pockets as a mark of practicality and equality.
But if you detach the pocket from the garment, you get all the practicality and none of the fuss; style wise, cross body bags allow for more streamlined garments. How great to be able to power-walk around the park, with both hands free. What a relief not to have some heavy ruck sack pulling at your back and shoulders. The Portable Pocket shows you’re not just in transit but that you’ve arrived, unencumbered, independent and ready for anything.
Alyson is still using her Uniqlo sellout nylon cross-body bag
STYLE NOTE
There are loads of reasonably priced nylon bags to choose from but if you want something in leather, and a bit more special, try the styles at Coach. I like the red Camera bag and Polly Crossbody both available at 24S. There’s also a zingy number at All Saints, and a buttersoft navy option at Jigsaw.
Best cross body bags (aka portable pockets):
Nilgin Yusuf is a freelance writer and regular TNMA contributor. That’s Not My Age is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Discussion (39 Comments)
Goddessinthedetails says:
This is exactly where I am at the moment – using a Lululemon fleece crossbody for everyday. I”d love a smarter leather version and I’d love a slightly bigger sporty version with room for my water bottle. The leather versions I”ve looked at so far are that little bit too small – I need space for a phone, AirPods, a wallet, lippy, as basics. Will check out some of those you mention here.
Raylene "TJ" says:
I’ve been using a crossbody bag since the age of 20. I’m now 55 and as much in love with hands free as I was then!
I will say however that a lot of the bags showcased here are “fanny packs”.
But I have a secret……I collect purses. Every colour, style, design and even designers. I just love them and can never get enough!Barb says:
When COVID started I didn’t want set a purse down anywhere and medical facilities said to bring hardly anything into their offices, I switched to smaller and smaller sling purses then to the pockets. Now I love the freedom and do somehow feel empowered. I don’t need to carry something for every emergency in a large handbag anymore.
Julia Hamilton says:
I love a good cross-body bag as well as anyone, but quite a few of the ones illustrated here hang very high on the body. I tried the Cos version but having a bag slung just under my bust made impossible one of the vital uses of a cross-body bag: you need to be able to get into it without having to take it off.
In the end, I saved a shed-load of money and bought one of Uniqlo’s nylon versions. It’s bigger than it looks and you can adjust the strap so that it can perform that vital function of being get-attable. I won’t use it all the time but for travelling it’s the tops.Thanks for commenting, Julia. We tried to include a variety of styles and as many as we could find with adjustable straps. The Uniqlo bag is brilliant, really handy. I use mine all the time and have even persuaded my 90-year-old mum to carry one!
kate perry says:
Yes! Absolutely with you on this one. I have a lovely collection of smart work/tote bags that are languishing in a cupboard. They don’t seem relevant to my lifestyle these days. I’ve owned two much treasured Allison Burns leather “Faithfull” bags for the last couple of decades and they continue to be my easy sling bags. Recent purchase for my current, rural, lifestyle is from Scottish brand Trakke – a largo sling bag which I’ve used pretty much every day for the last few months. Fits everything, super comfortable for hiking, waterproof – liberating!
Annie says:
Love and use a practical cross over bag daily………but when I go somewhere special I like to use a true vintage handbag. I just love the firm clip of the clasp so firmly identified with my mother.
I reluctantly use a cross body bag – only a very small one with a long strap when I travel – anything else messes up with the outfit and the silhouette. I love the slender, leather phone bag by Scottish maker Iseabal Hendry – https://www.instagram.com/p/CrqzONFMBRz/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
I can’t understand the aesthetic of the Fanny pack under the breast I’m afraid – unless you are flat chested, 20 years old and 6’ tall (and that’s not me). But yes to elegant pockets in garments, to store the phone and lipstick 🙂 .
Elizabeth says:
I was about to comment the same. I’m a D/DD , also broad-shouldered, and cross body bags just add all the wrong dimensions to an otherwise carefully constructed outfit. They look lovely and fun, but every time I try them, my sleek-on-top and waist-creating outfit (v-neck, long necklace with pendant to create vertical lines, blazer with low-set single-breasted button, belted top to define a waist) is destroyed. Even more comically, even for the longer hanging ones, the strap lands right between my breasts, defining an eye-catching “twin torpedo” look. Nope nope nope.
Angela Blair says:
My current favourite cross body bag is from Amsterdam based “O My Bag” (terrible name, but luscious quality and design) They make a point of using ethically sourced materials and supporting craftspeople in developing countries. I am now addicted to them. This is the Tardis like bucket bag I’m favouring. https://omybagamsterdam.com/products/bobbi-bucket-bag-black-classic-leather
Janet says:
I’ve been using a shoulder/cross body bag for about 20 years plus now, as I found carrying a large bag unnecessary and tiring. I have a small collection, bought over the years from a variety of places, the last being a small red leather one found in my local TKMaxx. I’m still tempted by one or two from the collection you show.
Mrs Tonia says:
I agree Janet about affordable versions from TK Maxx. I just got one in aqua leather for about £20. Many zipped compartments in a slim rectangular shape, adjustable shoulder strap. It’s good with summer colours and fabrics but for me a bit small. I carry sunglasses and wallet plus phone etc.
Karen says:
I now always buy a bag with an adjustable strap (or change the strap – I’ve found that a variety of interesting straps are available). I like it over the shoulder for everyday errands and cross body for air travel. I find it awkward to have it cross body with a car seat belt or anyplace I want to take it off frequently. I would like to go smaller, but with needing both reading and sunglasses, there’s a limit.
Doreen English says:
I love these bags i have just recieved a beautiful lime green, orange and basket weave cross body bag made by Golunski. It is a perfect size for summer and is beautiful quality, size and colour to accent many summer outfits. I was given the choice of the different design colours which was difficult because they were all beautiful. I am terrible with hand held bags I leave them behind and forget them in places I really shouldn’t leave them. Cross body are much easier for me.
Lynn says:
I used my last LeSportsac almost daily for 15 years. Recently one of the zips broke and I have replaced it with one the same make and style. As well as around Canada the original was worn in u.k., India, China – wherever I went it went with me. Been washed in the washing machine and always came out looking like new. Been even more useful since I have had to use a cane. LOVE MY LESPORTSAC.
Oh I’d forgotten about Le Sport sac’s brilliant bags, Lynn! And there used to be a shop in SoHo, NYC
Lesley says:
Try M. Hulot for the most beautifully made (British) leather bum bags in glorious colours. I have two of their Loe in tan and yellow. There is room for plenty and you feel so safe knowing everything is close to your body. They have just released a new design in great colours.
Beth says:
Ooh I love the idea of these cute small crossbody, but nope. Most of my bags are crossbody because I like my hands free while shopping and walking around the city. However, a bag just big enough for a phone is a non-starter. I need one big enough for the phone, the cases for my regular glasses and sun glasses, a small cosmetic case for: eyedrops (I live in a very dry climate) lip balm and tissues, and always an energy food bar for blood sugar drops. Our city also charges a fee at any merchant where you take one of their bags – so I also need to carry a collapsable shopping bag in my bag. A camera bag won’t cut it in my reality.
Boadicea says:
I’ve never really trusted the clasps on fanny packs. They’re fine for staying closed and in place but the Cassandra in me always wonders how easy it would be for someone to spring it undone and run!
I’ve always chosen shoulders bags, even for evenings, but being known as the bag lady in our family (as well as books’n’boots) does mean that my collection also includes other types including a couple of cherished carpet bags, totes galore, and one or two proper handbags possibly similar to those used by Annie’s mother. Oh, that click! And I always make sure that even if the bag won’t go cross-body, the handles are still long enough to go over my shoulder for the bag to be tucked under my arm.
I agree with Mrs Tonia, Fossil is a great brand, but my best buy was of unknown make years ago in midWest America in Walmarts. Picture soft, light tan leather with a tooled pattern (now mostly worn off with age and use), three full length compartments with matching zips plus inner pockets (one zipped). There’s a lovely long strap from end to end that either goes ‘shoulder’ or across me low enough to be get-attable and, almost best of all, there’s a deep outside pocket at each end where I stash a foldaway shopping bag and any small things I need quick access to, like a mask say. Everything’s kept safe by an external Velcro strap. I just love this bag and at $10 it was a snip!
But I’m never satisfied. I’m off to check out Angela’s ‘O My Bag’. Thanks, Angela!
Char says:
Great post!!! I have used crossbody bags for years!! All price points too! My favorite is
a Prada microfiber that can be wiped down and still look good. I have had for years.
I now have tried the smaller ones, like lululemon and love them. So many options, best
style ever! And my back and shoulders are happy!Michael Maddison says:
Because it holds a Couple of items I need in everyday use Like my Phone
Wallet and Pen Rather than Carring A Holdall or BackpackElizabeth says:
While visiting Quebec City, I was using a Danier leather bag that I used for work . It turned out to be rather heavy (even empty), my shoulder was killing me, so I bought a Oulett crossbody bag from one of artisan kiosks, what a relief. I have used crossbody bags ever since. Hands free is a bonus and like someone else pointed out, you don’t want to put your bag down on a dirty surface.
Inger says:
I’ve always loved cross body bags and find them to be both practical and stylish.
Cross body works for both day and night.
I’m currently looking to purchase Lulu Guiness Cole cross body, in sage for summer. But I’m sure it’ll do great as an all year round colour.
Good size, holds what I need it to, and just in time to sling on for my summer travels.Gill says:
I’ve been a fan of the crossbody bag for some years, having had shoulder issues. I do prefer a longer version with plenty of outside zipped pockets. I have several, leather and fabric. Fossil is my go-to brand but very happy to look at others. Several to choose from in this review!
It’s amazing what you can fit in these smaller bags too – as well as the necessities ie phone, wallet, tissues, earphones, lipstick, you can also fit a kindle. Just perfect for everyday and travelling.Christine says:
It actually about my shoulder. I get pain from a purse hanging straight down. Cross body is not as much pressure.
Sierra says:
Love my cross body bags. I always feel that my money/cards etc are safer, whilst both hands are free. I prefer the longer strap so that the bags sits more on my hip front rather than my phone bag which sits just under my boobs. Assots of London are very reasonable and well made with quality leather. Check out their sale section for some real bargains. Their little leather zipped purses are flat and fit well inside a cross body bag. The lovely colours are easy to find when rummaging in your bag!
https://assots.co.uk/collections/womens-leather-cross-body-bags
https://assots.co.uk/search?q=zip+purse&type=productAnne says:
I have used a cross over bag for 40 years. Much better for our posture it gives our spine the possibility to remain in a straight position. it is a good ergonomic option for us in that it stops us having to raise one shoulder thereby prolonging muscle contraction over one shoulder, to keep a bag in place. It distributes the weight of the contents of the bag across our trunk and also reduces the risk of the bag being snatched from you.
Hands free is an added benefit.Pat Cockett says:
I’ve used crossbody bags for years now- shout-out to Radley for their lovely soft leather ones. I know it must be years as a couple of my early ones have a phone holder built into the strap for when we all had those little Nokia phones, pre smart phones. I now walk with a stick so a cross body bag is a boon, otherwise no free hands
Arachnae says:
My fave is my Orla Kiely cross body purse/card wallet/phone case with an interchangeable strap. Not least because it is technically not a bag as far as airlines are concerned. And if they’re going to be silly about it it fits in the pocket of my denim jacket. If I don’t have too many coins I can also jam in eyeliner, MAC mini lipstick and a tiny Juliette Has A Gun purse spray. Also takes my passport and loads of cards. Love it.
Jaxx says:
Anyone know of any micro-bags, just big enough for a phone, keys and bank card? I have a regular cross-body already but I need one for going walking when I don’t need to carry anything else. NOT with short straps and worn sitting under the bust – these are bum bag! I like the Coach one shown in the selection but not for £250!
Yes, try M Hulot. I have the Hornsey Mini Bag and was going to include it here but I think it’s worthy of a follow-up feature…
Whistles has a lovely cross-body box bag. Small-ish but more roomy than it looks. Comes in multiple colours and is on sale. The strap looks short in Whistles’ photos but is normal length. https://www.whistles.com/product/bibi-crossbody-bag-30592.html
Susanna says:
Love my everyday cross body bags in sturdy nylon from Baggalini. They’re like the Tardis, way more commodious than they look because of the multiple, well designed pockets. Also a lovely Italian orange leather number that was a snip at a craft shop in Umbria. Hands free rules!
Christine says:
Rains makes a fabulous waterproof, structured & boxy cross-body bag for a little less than 100€. Took mine on a 5-week holiday and received loads of compliments.
Joanne says:
Crossbody bags have been my go-to for decades. I had a smallish one for dinner out, and a bigger one that would fit the laptop and the lunchbag. I lugged stuff around on my shoulder all day.
These days I do my back a favour and use my smallish crossbody bag that fits the phone, glasses, small water bottle for going out. Anything bulkier or heavier, i.e. laptop, lunchbox, cardigan, etc. goes in a stylish backpack.
I never understood the allure of handbags. I need my hands free. The other day I dug up my clutch for a special occasion – it was so annoying, constantly holding on to something while also navigating wine glass, phone, ticket etc.
‘Tricia Low 
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A super selection of colourful cross body bags shown here Nilgin. Once lockdowns began I abandoned all of my smart handbags acquired over decades for a metallic compact crossbody leather version from a brand called Fossil. I bought it on a business trip to Leeds years earlier. It’s attraction was multiple compartments it’s compact volume. I could stuff masks and hand gel in the exterior pocket. It is lightweight good to carry close to the body on public transport. I stopped needing going out type bags. For the past few years I mostly use this one. I would now get nothing that does not have an exterior zipped compartment for travel cards etc.
Other old goodies I’m attempting to use this season to switch things up : an apple green leather one by Mandarina Duck. Compact great for going on crowded public transport and a zebra print nylon one by Tumi with black leather trim. Common denominators are adjustable shoulder strap and multiple zipped compartments.
It’s great to walk about confidently with one of these type of bags across the body.