As far as everyday bags go, a cross-body, or camera bag, is up there. They’re the perfect size to fit all your daily essentials - phone, wallet, keys, lippy - without the bulk of a shoulder bag, while being smarter than a tote.
Of course, one of the reasons cross-body bags are so wonderful is that they leave your hands free for doing other things: texting your mates silly memes, handling snacks and reading your free daily copy of the Evening Standard are just some of the activities that spring to mind.
They’re also great for helping you blend in on overseas city breaks; because nothing screams “I’m a tourist, rob me!” more than wearing a transparent safety pouch around your neck (you know the ones).
The Goldilocks-standard of bags, we’ve put together a hot list of the best to buy right now.
From designer to high street options, here are the best cross body bags to spend your money on.
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AllSaints Ida Leather Cross Body Bag, Black
An investment piece that will only become more beautiful with age, no one does leather quite like AllSaints. This Ida bag is the right mix of fashion and function with chunky gold hardware and a turnlock for keeping your things safe. If you’re looking for an accessory to take you from day to night, this option is hard to beat.
Buy now £219.00, John Lewis
Jaeger Leather Lizard Effect Cross Body Bag
We have no doubt Jaegar’s big and beautiful cross body will become your favourite bag for nights out, weekend walks and the regular old 9 - 5. Its classic styling of black leather and gold-coloured details means it works with all kinds of looks while the two pockets - one internal fastened with a zip, the other outside - renders it a design of form as well as function.
Buy now £109.00, M&S
Gucci GG Marmont small quilted-leather cross-body bag
Most commonly spotted on the arms on Instagrammers and influencers, Gucci’s quilted cross body is a cult classic. Aside from the interlocked GG status-upping branding, the camera bag shape is ripe for holding all your most precious treasures safely inside.
Buy now £1200.00, Matches
Ted Baker Stina Leather Cross Body Bag, Light Green
A boxy cross-body is the best shape to go for as it maximises the space. Ted Baker’s pistachio-coloured leather design has twin compartments, making organisation easier. It managed to walk that fine line between looking compact but being really spacious, making it a winner for days out and taking to the office alike.
Buy now £85.00, John Lewis
Calvin Klein Jeans double zip camera bag logo taping in black
Famed for clean, minimal design, CK’s camera body stays true to the brand’s DNA. It’s simple, it’s functional, it’s chic - and it’s currently on sale.
Buy now £60.00, ASOS
See by Chloé Burgundy Mara Leather Cross Body Bag
Designed in a saddle-silhouette, Chloe’s cross body is a thing of equine-inspired beauty. The leather bag is offered in shades of terracotta and burgundy with gold hardware to elevate the look even further. It’s a compact design with space to hold only the essentials in the cotton lined main compartment and a card slot for credit cards too.
Buy now £380.00, Browns
RAINS Micro white rubberised cross-body bag
Best known for its collection of rubberised raincoats, RAINS also offers a considered line of bags. While its backpack is a favourite amongst commuters, this micro cross-body is perfect if you’re looking for something with less heft. It’s made to withstand anything the infamous British weather chucks at it and combined with the robust black canvas strap will stay in operation for years to come.
Buy now £60.00, Harvey Nichols
AllSaints Colette Leather Crossbody Bag
A compact bag designed to grab and go, this soft envelope-shaped bag is the perfect city break companion. The adjustable strap allows you to lower or tighten to your comfort, while the deep zip guard offers a safety element, especially on busy trains and buses. As well as the main inner compartment, there’s an additional pocket on the back, fastened with a gold-coloured zip.
Buy now £159.00, AllSaints
Salvatore Ferragamo Black Gancini Leather Cross Body Bag
An Italian-made design, this calf-leather cross body is covered in a matelassé motif inspired by small hooks, giving it a distinct aesthetic. The gold-hued chain strap amplifies the feeling of luxe.
Buy now £790.00, Browns
Anya Hindmarch Printed leather shoulder bag
Long established as the place to pick up designer goods for less, The Outnet is an online Aladdin’s cave of fashion and accessory must-haves. Anya Hindmarch’s playful ‘Eyes Right’ crossbody is here at 45 per cent off, giving you even more reason to add to basket.
Buy now £218.00, The Outnet
