All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
Ready to wear handbags again? Cross-body bags are the effortless styles that’ll make getting dressed easy.
Hands up who’s forgotten how to put on clothes for an actual occasion? You’re not alone. Luckily, the Stylist fashion team has already compiled a cheat sheet of spring outfits you can wear for those al fresco plans (without your teeth chattering), and now it’s time to tackle the accessories.
Do you still opt for a chunky stomper boot? Or is it time to embrace the nostalgic 90s flatform flip flops? Either one gets a yes from us, but we’re here to help you with the handbag situation right now. After months of leaving the house with nothing but a pocket full of hand sanitiser and face masks, it’s time to accessorise our outfits once again. And we’re thinking practicality first with the crossbody bag.
You may also like
This flatform flip flop trend is all over Instagram for summer
The long strap styles that go over your shoulder and across your body means you can go hands-free. And, with no need to hold your bag or worry about forgetting it once you’re sitting outside at a bar or restaurant, the crossbody bag is also an easy way to uplift your looks. If you’re still having to wear a coat thanks to the unpredictable UK weather, an easy way to transport them into spring/summer territory is with a bold, bright bag.
Here, we’re found the best crossbody bags from the likes of Mango and Zara to Bottega Veneta and Loewe. Meet the effortless bag style you’ll want to take to all your upcoming plans…
Shop best crossbody handbags
Mila & Eve Ava crossbody
The Drop: Mila & Eve Ava Cross Body The Ava crossbody made from Italian leather is available in classic tan, chic black and go-with-everything silver. The handy fold-over flap makes it easy to keep your belongings safe and you can also have the bags monogrammed with up to four initials, for free.
Mango bag
Best cross-body bags: Mango Straw bags are a sign that summer is on the way and this tan strap iteration is a update on a classic. Wear it with a frothy, white smock dress and flatform flip flops for an everyday look that’ll never fail.
Coach bag
Best cross-body bags: Coach This season’s It bag is Coach’s pillow tabby bag that’ll make the idea of a handbag much more appealing thanks to the squishy, padded design. With two different strap lengths, it also comes in an array of colours but this bubblegum pink shade is a firm favourite.
Strathberry bag
Best crossbody bags: Strathberry Strathberry is packed full of beautiful and the East/West style is a classic. With the option of making the chain into a crossbody or a shoulder style, you’ll be able to wear this for all your upcoming plans.
Mila & Eve bag
Best crossbody bags: Mila & Eve Available in blush pink, light grey and classic navy, the leather Chloe crossbody bag has a handy exterior pocket as well as two zipped compartments – plus you can monogram yours for free or add a pop of colour with one of three striped straps, exclusively at The Drop by Stylist.
Aurora London bag
Best cross-body bags: Aurora London Update your arm candy with this vibrant style by Aurara London. Try teaming it with a Breton T-shirt, loose-fit jeans and a pair of fresh white kicks.
Neous bag
Best cross-body bags: Neous The humble black bag that’s far from boring, the Neous Mercury cross-body is the sleek style your spring/summer outfits need. In four different timeless hues, you’ll end up wearing this on repeat.
Aaks bag
Best cross-body bags: Aaks Bring all the summer vibes to your everyday uniform with this cute woven bag. Handcrafted in Ghana, you’ll want to bring this beauty out every spring/summer from here on out.Mashu bag
Best crossbody bags: Mashu How gorgeous is this sage shade? Not only is it a stunner, the vegan leather style is also made from pineapples so it’s a sustainable option to go for. Use as a cool crossbody or take out as a handheld style – the possibilities are endless.
Zara bag
Best cross-body bags: Zara Want to liven up your new season looks? This lilac mini bag should do the trick. Big enough to carry your phone, card and mask, try it out over a clashing pastel dress with strappy sandals.
Loewe bag
Best cross-body bag: Loewe Sure, it’s an investment, but an investment that’ll bring you sartorial joy every time you wear it. Loewe’s puzzle bag will always be iconic, so you’ll love this for a lifetime.
SBRI bag
Best cross-body bags: SBRI You can choose to keep this bag plain black, with leopard side panels and even get a personalised zipper with your initials on. The possibilities are endless.
Shop SBRI cross body bag with personalised tag at The Drop, £160
& Other Stories bag
Best cross-body bags: & Other Stories Looking for a new everyday bag? Look no further. This braided & Other stories style, also available in black, is a winner all round. The thicker strap will be super comfy if you’re guilty of filling your bag to the brim.
Bottega Veneta bag
Best cross-body bags: Bottega Veneta The next cult bag in the making, Bottega’s mini bulb bag is made to be noticed. Give any dress or jeans and T-shirt outfit an overhaul just by adding this beauty… everyone will be green with envy.
Arket bag
Best cross-body bags: Arket The much-loved squishy clutch bag from last season has been given a wearable update with the addition of a strap. This now two-for-one buy is a style that’ll work around the clock.
Been London bag
Best cross-body bags: Been London Like a statement bag? This shiny silver number will be your go-to from day to night. Throw it over any spring/summer cover-up to make it more exciting.
Mila & Eve bag
Best cross-body bags: Mila & Eve A sleek box style is one that’ll never date. This Mila & Eve bag has the option of interchangeable straps to ensure you’ll never tire of it. Want to know the best part? You can also get it personalised with your initials for free. Go, go, go!
Images: Getty
Other images: courtesy of brands
Recommended by Harriet Davey
Fashion
These new high street collections will make you so excited for spring
Fashion
This tiny detail is updating every dress and skirt style right now
Fashion
“My job is to shop, but I haven’t bought new clothes for 3 months – this is what I want for spring”
Fashion
17 happy slogan tops and jumpers designed to make you smile