The concept of crossbody bags dates back centuries ago, when external pouches needed to be carried to store essentials safely. With the global rise in concert and festival culture around the 1950s and 60s, these bags made a comeback, thanks to the convenience they offered. As the name suggests, a crossbody bag is a small and compact bag that is meant to be worn across the body for carrying all of one’s essentials hands-free.
Reasons for the popularity of crossbody bags
The growing interest in crossbody bags for women hasn’t been a stroke of luck. Rather, this popularity has been fanned by the lack of pockets in women’s clothing, alongside a myriad of advantages that these bags present.
Versatility
Buyers can find a huge variety of styles when buying crossbody bags for women – think colors, materials, and finishes. This makes them a versatile option to pair with different outfits. For instance, when heading for a day of exploring, a tan leather bag would look stunning over a co-ord set or a casual dress. When heading to the gym, a nylon crossbody bag may just be what one needs to look athleisure-ready. Or, perhaps an embellished or embroidered bag for a night out.
Whatever the mood, time, or space, there’s a crossbody bag out there that’s ideal for it. Additionally, these bags typically come with adjustable straps, so users can make them longer or shorter based on their preferences.
Convenience
Looking for one’s essentials in a large carry-on or holding them in one’s hand constantly can get rather cumbersome. Crossbody bags present a solution to this problem. They allow users to access their essentials quickly while helping them keep their hands free.
Security
Given the crossbody style, these bags also feel more secure when it comes to incidents of theft. Smaller bags can even be worn inside jackets or coats, taking them out of public view. As compared to regular shoulder bags or backpacks, the risk of pickpocketing also drops down drastically with crossbody bags.
Comfort
Whether one’s looking to spend the entire day running errands or heading out on adventures, crossbody bags are a great companion. Unlike shoulder bags that entirely put the load on one side of the body, these bags distribute it more evenly across the body, offering more comfort.
Elements to consider when buying a crossbody bag
With so many types and styles of crossbody bags to choose from, finding exactly what’s tailored to one’s needs can feel overwhelming. To make it easier, buyers must pay attention to certain factors.
Material
One of the best things about crossbody bags is the diverse range of materials they can be made from – leather, canvas, nylon, faux leather, etc. Of these, leather tends to be the most popular (albeit most expensive), thanks to its durability and clean finish, while nylon is all the rage when it comes to athleisure. It’s important to choose a base material that is right for one’s intended use.
Features and functionality
There are two main styles of crossbody bags to choose from; those with a front flap closure and those with a zip. While the front flap bags are often bedazzled with statement pieces that add some flair to one’s outfit, the zip offers extra convenience and security. The “right” bag depends entirely on one’s needs.
Capacity
Crossbody bags are generally small or medium-sized to offer maximum convenience and movement. Before purchasing a new bag, it is important to assess the number/volume of things one intends to carry. This will help one find the perfect bag to carry all their belongings with ease.
Color
When it comes to expressing one’s style, color is an important factor. While neutral colors like black, white, and tan will offer more versatility, others like pink or green may help some women put their best foot forward. Further, if the bag is going to be used for daily commute, it is best to look for darker neutral colors, as they are less likely to show stains. Alternatively, if it’s about breathing new life into an otherwise monotonous outfit, opt for a bag in a bright and vibrant hue.
Style
When it comes to crossbody bags, there are numerous styles to choose from.
- Classic crossbody bag
The traditional crossbody bag has one shoulder strap and a main compartment. It’s one of the most versatile styles and can be paired well with formal and casual outfits. - Messenger bag
Inspired by the postal service, the messenger bag is a practical crossbody option for those who travel heavy. These bags generally have functional features like multiple compartments and adjustable straps to offer maximum comfort and convenience. - Bucket bag
Think of a round or oval-shaped bucket compartment attached to a strap – bucket bags have a more hobo-style finish and are a popular choice among many commuters and college students. - Crossbody clutch
For formal evenings and night outs, one may want a bag that looks sleek and stylish. Crossbody clutches are perfect for such occasions. They tend to be more structured, giving them an elegant and polished look. - Mini crossbody bag
If all one needs to carry is their phone and a wallet, a mini crossbody bag is the way to go. These completely do away with the need to lug around a heavy bag, while also offering a space to store what matters. - Saddle bag
Those looking for an accessory to add more interest to their outfit may be inclined toward saddle bags. Inspired by certain elements of horseback riding, these bags often feature statement embellishments and accessories.
