Don't you hate it when your handbag strap keeps slipping off your shoulder? Call me dramatic, but with the busy lives we're all living, such annoyances can really steal our peace.
That's where cross-body bags come in. Functional and compact, this modern staple holds the power to totally transform your day. Going hands-free means you don't have to worry about the awkward forearm impressions left by grab-handle designs, or constantly having to transfer your shoulder bag from one side to the other to avoid achy joints.
There are so many chic cross-body options in the designer sphere, but if you're on a budget, you might struggle to find ones free from cheap hardware and shiny faux leather. Luckily, we've scoured the internet and whittled down the best, most expensive-looking cross-body bags out there. From COS' bestselling crescent-shaped style to Other Stories' trend-led creations, scroll to see the ones worthy of your on-the-go essentials.
SHOP EXPENSIVE-LOOKING CROSS-BODY BAGS:
We can't stop singing the praises of this sell-out COS bag.
A colour-pop accessory makes every outfit more fun.
The boxy shape of this bag looks so cool.
Micro cross body bags are great for evenings out when all you need is a lipstick, your phone and a card.
Arket's leather goods are such high quality.
It also comes in real leather with gunmetal hardware.
Yes, we're still obsessed with this designer-looking handbag.
Can you tell I like woven bags?
Matt Nat's vegan leather pieces are just as sturdy as the real thing.
I'm always drawn to a thick cross body strap.
This will go with literally everything.
You can customise this simple leather bag for an extra £2.
Wouldn't this make the perfect accompaniment to a camel coat?
Every accessories collection should include a bucket bag.
When you buy this bag, 100% of the purchase price goes towards various charities worldwide. Pretty cool, Matt Nat.
This is a limited edition bag, so once it's gone, it's gone.
Make this statement-strap bag the talking point of your look.
I can't own bags this big, because I'll immediately start weighing it down with stuff—if you're more restrained than me, this is a great everyday option.
Such a classic.
Perfectly slouchy.
Is anyone else always drawn to croc-effect fabrications?
Spacious enough for all your essentials.
This looks like leather, but it's made from recycled polyester.
It might not be super affordable, but because it's Ganni you know it's top-notch quality.
Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
-
I Give It a Week Until Every Fashion Person in NYC Is Wearing This Under-$500 Designer BagIt could be even less than that, though.
-
There Are Bag Trends, and Then There Are Investment Bag Trends—That's What This One IsCeleb approved.
-
I Spent the Afternoon Scrolling Through Saks Off 5th—Wow, These Discounted Shoes and Accessories Are Very ChicSunglasses, bags, sandals, and more.
-
This Hailey Bieber Backed Handbag Trend Is Everything to Me Right NowI need it.
-
The 2025 It Girl's Wardrobe: 9 Highly Specific Brands and Buys They're All WearingFrom handbags to jeans to jewelry.
-
I Tested Reformation's Bags IRL—These 6 Are Actually Worth ItThese bags are like if The Row and Gucci had a baby.
-
Madewell's Insiders Event Is So Good—27 Picks Chic People Will Be Adding to Their CartsGet 25% off just about everything.
-
This Just In: Plushies Are the Freakier Trend Gen Z Is Dumping Bag Charms ForHot take: I'm obsessed.
