At this point in life, I’m done with bags that misbehave. If it slides off my shoulder, digs into my arm, or feels like I’m hauling a small boulder… it’s out. Enter the humble crossbody. It stays put, carries the essentials, and doesn’t require constant fussing.
I pulled together a list of my favorite crossbody bags for women over 60, from budget-friendly finds to the kind of investment bags that make you wonder how you ever lived without them. A few of my longtime companions made the cut (including one I once bought on a “just looking” trip to duty-free — we know how that goes).
What Makes a Good Everyday Crossbody Bag
I’m far pickier now than I was before, and that’s saying a lot because I’ve always been pretty persnickety. If a bag is not practical and comfortable, I won’t carry it. Here’s what matters to me.
Lightweight but Structured
A heavy tote feels fine when it’s empty. But once you add your wallet, keys, glasses, and phone, it can feel like a punishment. I look for bags that hold their shape without weighing a ton.
Adjustable Strap
Our torsos are not one-size-fits-all. A strap that can be shortened or lengthened makes a huge difference. If the strap is too long or cuts across the wrong spot, that bag will sit in the closet.
Secure Closure
A bag that zips closed makes me feel less like an easy target, but it really comes down to your preference. Interior pockets are a bonus because no one enjoys digging for keys in the parking lot.
The Right Size
Tiny bags rarely hold enough. Oversized bags can feel like you are hauling luggage. I stick with a medium-sized crossbody that holds the essentials and nothing more.
Timeless Style
At this point, I’m less interested in the latest “it” bag. A neutral color, minimal hardware, and a classic shape will quietly go with everything.
Crossbody Purses I Personally Own
I own this Waverly 2 bag by Lo & Sons convertible travel bag in three different colors, which should tell you how perfect it is. It comes with a 2-part adjustable strap, so I can easily transform it from a crossbody bag to a belt bag, shoulder bag, or wristlet! It features two interior mesh pockets, one zipper pocket, and three card slots, plus a key leash, which I find very handy. I never travel without one worn as a belt bag, containing my phone, passport, hand sanitizer, lipstick, and a few credit cards.
SIMILAR CROSSBODY
While perusing a consignment store for vintage brooches, I fell hook, line, and sinker for this used blue Louis Vuitton bag. It’s in amazing shape and looks like the previous owner only carried it once or twice! I’ve never had good luck at consignment stores, so this was a surprising treat.
Years ago, I splurged on the Gucci Soho Disc Crossbody in black at duty free. At the time, it felt indulgent, but it turned out to be worth every penny. The size is just right, the leather has held up beautifully, and it goes with absolutely everything! It’s become one of my most worn bags and still feels current. Sadly, Gucci no longer makes this style, but you can often find it pre-loved on resale sites like here… and here…and here. If you come across one in good condition, I highly recommend it.
The Best Everyday Crossbody Bags for Women Over 60
Classic Crossbody Styles Under $100
Willow Messenger Crossbody
This shade of cocoa is rich without being flashy, the kind of neutral that quietly works with both warm and cool tones in your wardrobe. The Willow Messenger has a slim, structured shape that sits close to the body, which makes it easy to wear all day. Inside, there is just enough organization to keep your essentials handy without feeling cluttered.
Amazon Essentials Crossbody Flap Bag
.This simple flap style shows why clean lines always look more expensive. It’s lightweight, easy to wear, and roomy enough for your daily basics without being bulky. A simple, no-nonsense option that works with almost anything in your closet.
Hollace Tote Mini Edition
A small tote that doubles as a crossbody is one of my favorite hybrids. This one from Anthropologie has a structured shape that looks polished yet not stiff, and the raisin shade is a subtle twist on classic brown. It is roomy enough for your essentials, yet compact enough that it never feels overwhelming. The detachable strap gives you the option of carrying it by the handles or wearing it crossbody.
Dange Dover Micah Neoprene Crossbody Bag
While technically slightly over $100, the Micah crossbody from Dagne Dover is a smart choice. The neoprene material is lightweight, soft, and easy to clean, which makes it perfect for busy days or travel. The dune color is a soft neutral that blends with almost anything, and the wide strap gives it a sporty edge while staying comfortable on your shoulder. Inside, the compartments keep everything where it belongs.
Best Crossbody Handbags Under $300
Lo & Sons Aoyama Crossbody
I have this purse in deep navy, and it’s also available in other shades. It’s buttery soft lambskin, and light as a feather. It comes with additional straps that allow me to convert it into a shoulder bag, a shorter shoulder bag, a cross-body, and a handheld. I could not love it more! It’s made by a small, woman-owned company in New York that also manufactures my other travel bags. There’s a side zipper to easily stow my phone, and it has an inner leash to clip my keys on so I never have to dig for them.
Crossbody Purses Over $500
DeMellier Vancouver Leather Crossbody Bag
I adore my DeMellier Vancouver bag! The strap can easily be doubled to wear as a short-shoulder bag or lengthened to wear as a crossbody. Its structured shape holds quite a lot, and the clasp snaps closed securely.
Tom Ford Tara Mini Crossbody
The Tara Mini is proof that “mini” does not always mean small. This version has enough space for the things you actually carry such as your phone, wallet, and glasses, while still keeping a slim profile against the body. The grained graphite leather is a deep gray that feels modern yet versatile, and the flap front with gold hardware adds just the right amount of polish.
Mulberry Islington Leather Bucket Bag
Mulberry is renowned for its exquisite leather, and the Islington bucket bag is a prime example. This bag comes in. 8 colors to fit every color palette. The bucket shape gives you more space than a slim crossbody, while the zip-top keeps everything secure. It has enough structure to look polished but still feels relaxed.
Here are some posts you may like: Lo & Sons Review: My Favorite Travel Purses, and Cuyana Leather Tote: The Perfect Everyday Bag.
Final Thoughts
The best crossbody isn’t the trendiest or the flashiest; it’s the one that balances comfort, proportion, and timeless style. That’s the bag you’ll actually reach for.”
Do you carry a crossbody most days, or do you still reach for a tote or satchel?