There was a time not too long ago when wearing a "man bag" was considered such a garish fashion choice that laughing at Joey wearing one made up the entire plot for an episode of Friends. However, the universal appreciation of bags in menswear that has since taken place makes that dark time nothing more than a distant memory.
Now, leaving the house without some form of luggage, whether that be a tote, backpack, or crossbody bag, feels like something is missing.
Of all the options, crossbody bags are best for when you have a few too many things to carry for pockets to cut it and don't want to wear a bulky backpack. But let's not kid ourselves, it's as much a stylistic choice as it is a practical one (countless times I've left the house with an empty crossbody bag just because it added the perfect finishing touch to an outfit).
From technical nylon side bags to luxury luggage, we've rounded up our favorite crossbody bags on the market. Whether it be for travel, going to a festival, or just an everyday look, these accessories are about to make carrying your possessions a heck of a lot easier — and more stylish.
Scroll down for our favorite crossbody bags:
Gramicci Cordura Shoulder Bag
Crafted from lightweight, durable polyester Cordura fabric that is tear-resistant, this crossbody bag from outdoor label Gramicci comes with multiple compartments and pockets to carry the essentials for a day in the great outdoors.
Hyein Seo Sling Bag
This sling bag is decorated with embroidered detailing and buttons that can only be seen through a see-through fabric that's layered above it. But beyond the experimental ornamentation, this is a highly practical bag with a padded shoulder strap and a large main compartment.
Porter-Yoshida & Co. Tanker Shoulder Bag
When it comes to making durable, high-quality bags, Japanese label Porter is an expert. This style comes in its signature 3-layer nylon fabric with more than enough compartments to store everyday essentials.
ROA Packable Shoulder Bag
Crafted from lightweight nylon, this capacious bag can be folded down and packed away easily. ROA has been on our radar for a while thanks to its outdoor footwear and its expansion into clothing (and accessories) has not disappointed.
Brain Dead Equipment Crossbody Bag
A style of bag that you likely haven't seen since the early 2000s, these colorful nylon crossbodys have made a comeback. This one comes courtesy of Brain Dead's outdoor-focused Equipment subline.
C.P. Company Nylon B Crossbody Rucksack
This C.P. Company bag offers all the carrying space of a rucksack with the practicality of a crossbody bag. Plus, it comes in the brand's signature Nylon B fabric with a durable, water-resistant weave used specifically for garment dyeing.
The Row Slouchy Banana Two Crossbody Bag
Devoid of any logos or garish patterns, this bag comes in a minimal design typical for The Row. The simple, slouchy bag is made from a nylon shell with polished silver hardware.
Our Legacy Washed Denim Sling Bag
We've had jorts, we've even denim Crocs, and now Our Legacy is making Jags (AKA Jean bags). This large sling bag comes in light-wash denim with some small oil-like splatters already added.
Heliot Emil Liquid Metal Attache Messenger Bag
A shiny finish that looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, how Heliot Emil manages to create its liquid metal effect fabric is a complete enigma to me. All of the pants, jackets, and bags I've seen made out of the material look like they've been computer-generated.
Lemaire Soft Game Cross-Body Bag
A new take on Lemaire's signature croissant-shaped bag, this style comes in water-resistant nylon and laces on either side that let you adjust the bag's volume.
AMOMENTO Big Square Cross Bag
You might have guessed it already by the name but AMOMENTO's bag comes in a big, square shape. It's a no-thrills, convenient design.
Acne Studios Sling Backpack
Offering comfort, lots of storage space, and (in the good ones) a bottle holder in the strap, sling backpacks might be the most practical of crossbody bag styles. This one from Acne Studios has a waxed cotton canvas shell and a leather logo patch on the exterior.
Homme Plissé Issey Miyake Petal Bag
Is it possible for something to look bad when it's made in Issey Miyake's pleated fabric? I would argue not. The folds of a flower inspire the Petal Bag's shape and can be expanded to suit how much you're carrying.
Marni Mini Plaid Check Tote
Don't let your possessions get cold with Marni's puffy tote bag. The compact accessory comes with a removable strap so that it can be worn as a crossbody at your choosing.
and wander Sil Sacoche
A popular model that the brand brings back every season, and wander's Sil Sacoche bag has been decked out in a khaki green colorway crafted from durable Cordura nylon that is water-resistant.
Burberry Large Suede Cross-Body Bag
This Italian-made, suede bag from Burberry is probably the most spacious and most luxurious of the crossbody bags included here. Its design is a nod to Burberry's equestrian heritage, something that Daniel Lee has focused on since taking the helm at the British brand.
Master-Piece Small Nylon Messenger Bag
Japanese label Master-Piece (let's take a moment to appreciate a great brand name), is an expert in functional bags. This design is crafted from panels of waterproof CORDURA® nylon along with a supple leather lining and multiple storage options.
Maison Margiela Glam Slam Camera Bag
Maison Margiela's quilted leather Glam Slam bags have become a staple for the brand and continue to be released in new iterations. This one sees the pillow-like style turned into a practical (and high-priced) camera bag.
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