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A great shoulder bag is an essential accessory; whether small or oversized or bold or minimalist, these pieces carry their weight — and your essentials! — in stylish form.
When selecting the best designer shoulder bag for your wardrobe, consider what’s trending: For 2024, top shoulder bags come in interesting silhouettes and neutral-to-bold colorways. At Blumarine, Ferragamo, Givenchy, and Gucci, all signs pointed to East-West bags as a top shoulder bag trend, while boho chic sentiments ushered in slouchy shoulder bags at Louis Vuitton. In the mood for something sculptural? Crescent bags took shape on Valentino, Hermes, and Isabel Marant’s shows, and envelope shoulder bags appeared at Chloe and Saint Laurent. As for color, burgundy red continues to reigns supreme, while softer pastels appeared in butter yellow bags at Bottega Veneta and powder pink purses at Coach. For those who want a shoulder bag that suits any season, neutrals and chocolate brown tones painted shoulder bags on Fendi, Max Mara, and Miu Miu runways.
Just like luxury tote bags, designer shoulder bags play an essential role in your designer handbag rotation. Firstly, the best shoulder bags of the season are a must-have for their versatility. These luxury shoulder bags allow you to carry them hands-free, and whether you’re after a long or short strap, a bucket style, or a baguette version, there are endless options. Shoulder bags are a surefire way to elevate your look with minimal effort.
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“I am a big fan of the long strap shoulder bags this season, especially the bucket silhouette,” says Caroline Maguire, Fashion Director of Shopbop. “The versatility of a long strap makes this bag easy to pair for any occasion. I recommend utilizing the longer strap to create a crossbody when you’re on the go or wear it on your shoulder for a more structured and sophisticated look.”
Whether you keep your daily essentials to a minimum or you tend to carry a lot in your bag, you can find a shoulder bag that’s a perfect fit for all your needs. “I always consider the length of the shoulder strap — I like using it as a shoulder handbag and crossbody bag. Since I am always on the go, size is also a big factor. My shoulder bag needs to be big enough to carry all my essentials — like a tote bag — but small enough to transition to a crossbody without being too clunky,” notes Maguire. You want to ensure your shoulder strap stays comfortably and fits over any outerwear. Sometimes your coat’s arm holes may sit relatively low, making a short shoulder strap bag fall off your shoulder. Therefore, we recommend trying your shoulder bag with your go-to pieces, from T-shirts to winter parkas, no matter the current season to ensure the style and fit are right for you.
Keep scrolling to check out the best designer shoulder bags that you’ll want to wear year-round, along with expert tips of what to look for and how to style these essential accessories.
Top Shoulder Bags of 2024
Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag 33
As seen on the arms of Jennifer Lopez, Selena Gomez, Camila Mendes, and too many street style stars to count on both hands, the Coach Tabby Bag is back for 2024. The design has roots in an archival Coach handbag from the ’70s — a purse that stood out at the time for its ability to be worn as a crossbody bag or a shoulder bag. This year, Coach debuted this quilted iteration of the Tabby Bag and six limited-edition collections, spanning from pastels to denim to tie dye, with many of the drops selling out in mere hours after their launch.
This top shoulder bag offers all the special features of a designer handbag that’d go for double the price: It’s done in supple nappa leather with a zippered internal pocket and a leather and chain strap. While the Tabby 26 and Tabby 20 are popular sizes, we’re partial to the Coach Tabby 33 bag for its capacity. Inside, you’ll find two spacious pockets that are sizable enough for a small notebook or mini iPad, plus a zippered sleeve for essentials like your keys and credit cards.
Price upon publication of this article: $725
WWD Shop editor Claire Sullivan tests Coach’s Tabby shoulder bag. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Freja New York Mini Chrystie Bag
Allow us to introduce you to the emerging handbag brand that’s on the lips of every fashion insider right now: Freja New York. Just this season, we’ve seen Freja bags carried by Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Lawrence, and Katie Holmes. What’s to love? The female-owned brand is known for its minimalist sentiment and luxurious vegan leather that’s ultra-durable and resistant to stains — just take a damp washcloth to the material and even ketchup disappears sans residue.
The Freja Mini Chrystie handbag is editor tested and approved: The straps are long enough to sit comfortably over a sweater and the bag hits at a flattering point near the mid-waist. Inside, the small shoulder bag is lined in vegan suede that goes soft on delicate goods like designer wallets or small vials of perfume. It’s spacious enough to house all that plus an iPhone max and a few lipsticks.
Price upon publication of this article: $258
Sullivan tests Freja New York’s Mini Chrystie handbag. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Chanel Caviar Shoulder Bag
A Chanel bag that’s under $1,000 and in the burgundy red color we’re seeing trend all over runways? Sound the alarms. This one-of-a-kind designer handbag hails from the ’90s but looks nearly good-as-new. It has a silhouette that’s similar — and just as spacious — as a tote bag, allowing you ample room to stow journals, soft goods, and even a 13-inch laptop inside.
Editor’s note: Fashionphile finds can sell out quickly, but the ultra-luxury online retailer regularly restocks premium pre-loved goodies (browse new arrivals here). The retailer guarantees authenticity, with added perks like free shipping and free returns within 15 days.
Price upon publication of this article: $850
Banana Republic Vida Half-Moon Shoulder Bag
Banana Republic’s Vida Half-Moon Shoulder Bag is boho chic without reading too hippie-dippie, courtesy of its slouchy bag shape that doesn’t collapse under your arm. An adjustable strap allows you to wear it on the shoulder or as a crossbody bag, making it a versatile addition to your vacation wardrobe — the zip-top closure will keep your belongings secure on any adventure abroad. This affordable handbag comes in three shades, including this butter yellow tone that’s trending right now.
Price upon publication of this article: $220
Gucci Jackie Small Shoulder Bag
While the Gucci Jackie shoulder bag has been a brand signature since it debuted in 1961, its recent resurgence has re-introduced the bag to a younger audience. Variations of this leather shoulder bag have been seen on stars ranging from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (its namesake) to Kate Moss and more recently Dua Lipa and Taylor Swift.
As one of Gucci’s best handbags of all time, this small shoulder bag features a trending crescent shape that sits snugly under the arm, a gleaming patent leather finish, and a hook closure. The seven-inch strap is convertible with an additional strap that extends the drop to 20 inches, featuring Gucci’s green and red Web design. Understated and iconic at once, this is a top shoulder bag you’ll get compliments on year-round.
Price upon publication of this article: $3,300
WWD Shop editors test the Gucci Jackie handbag in our New York City office. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Loewe Flamenco Purse Bag
Loewe’s Flamenco purse is newly available as a shoulder bag for 2024, with a chain donut strap and a detachable crossbody strap. This makes the sought-after clutch bag all the more versatile to wear, while maintaining key Flamenco details like the signature knots and ruched design.
Our editors rate this purse as one of the best shoulder bags for travel due to its versatility: Wear it with a shirt dress for a day-trip to the vineyard, or team it with a little nothing dress for a night out. It’s available in eight neutral-to-bold colorways, but we’re partial to this statement emerald green tone we’ve seen on recent runways.
Price upon publication of this article: $3,650
WWD Shop editors evaluate Loewe’s Flamenco shoulder bag in our New York City office. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Cuyana Oversized Linea Bag
A sophisticated take on an everyday bag, Cuyana’s Oversized Linea shoulder bag is done in Italian leather with one thick adjustable strap. Where most tote bags can be cavernous — causing you to reach and root around to find what you’re looking for, this one is full of internal compartments that keep your bits and bobs organized. There’s an internal zip pocket, a sleeve that can fit up to 13-inch laptops, a key hook, and multiple pockets for your phone and wallet.
Yes, this is one of the best shoulder bags for work (and even a great shoulder bag for school), but it’s also understated enough to wear to happy hour drinks or weekend errands. Choose from three earthy colorways with this hobo shoulder bag, including stone, clay, and charcoal.
Price upon publication of this article: $498
WWD Shop editors test Cuyana’s shoulder bag in New York City. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
WWD/ Adam Mansuroglu
Gabriela Hearst Taylor Bag
The beauty of Gabriela Hearst’s Taylor shoulder bag is all in the details. It has a structured design with folds on the face of the bag, plus one hefty chain that you can slip onto your shoulder or tuck inside to carry the bag as an oversized clutch.
A framed top and push-lock closure help the bag maintain its stunning silhouette, while the wide opening allows you to easily see what you’ve stowed inside. While testing this top shoulder bag, our editors were able to fit a long wallet, an iPhone Max, headphones, and soft goods like a small makeup pouch.
Price upon publication of this article: $3,450
WWD Shop editors test Gabriela Hearst’s Taylor shoulder bag in our New York City office. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Fendi Crochet Baguette Bag
One of the most iconic shoulder bags, the Fendi Baguette, is a style that will be forever celebrated. The Fendi Baguette style first entered the fashion world by storm in 1997. Over the last 25 years it has evolved and remains one of the it-bags of all time. It transcends all trends, and due to the incredible craftsmanship and detail that goes into these limited pieces, they hold value that will only increase with time. Thanks in large part to Sex and The City’s Carrie Bradshaw, who made this style her closet staple, this has been an iconic bag to all fashion lovers and will remain as such until the end of time.
Crafted in brown woven cords with a calfskin strap, this cute shoulder bag is a rare beauty that taps into today’s straw bag trend. The finishing touch? Gleaming gold-tone hardware, of course.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,995
Saint Laurent Calypso Large Bag
When our editors laid eyes on Saint Laurent’s Calypso bag, there were audible “oohs” and “ahhs.” This stunning shoulder bag is unbelievably soft to the touch — it’s done in supple grained lambskin with pillowy padding that contrasts with the bag’s gold hardware. The sliding chain straps allow you to wear it as a classic shoulder bag that sits comfortably under the arm, or with a longer drop that sits near the hips.
You won’t be left wanting in terms of capacity, as this shoulder bag can fit your essentials plus a change of clothes or a makeup bag. A new signature for Saint Laurent, the Calypso is one of the best leather shoulder bags you can buy right now.
Price upon publication of this article: $3,500
WWD Shop editors test Saint Laurent’s Calpyso shoulder bag in our New York City office. Captured with the Leica Q3 camera.
Mansur Gavriel Flores Bag
Mansur Gavriel launched in 2013 with a core collection of luxurious leather accessories — including its iconic bucket bag that hasn’t lost steam in the decade since it debuted. While staple styles like that purse and the brand’s clutches and totes have been carried by A-listers like Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift, the Flores Bag is a trending style to have on your radar.
This black shoulder bag has a distinct floral-inspired shape with a drawstring closure. It’s hard to beat the value of Italian-made Mansur Gavriel handbags like this one, which comes in soft-to-the-touch calf leather with a suede lining.
Price upon publication off this article: $795
Miu Miu Ivy Canvas Bag
Miu Miu was one of many labels to embrace neutral and rich brown hues on recent runways, and the Ivy Canvas Bag embodies both summer color trends. For those who want their luxury purchases to be quiet but not silent, the silhouette features a chocolate leather appliqué logo.
This cute over-the-shoulder bag is spacious but slim — making it an ideal shoulder bag for travel. Not only does it fit in your crowded carry-on bag, but it accommodates enough for your daily needs without being so large that you overstuff it to the point of shoulder strain by day’s end. This top designer shoulder bag features an open-top design and one internal compartment that fits a 15-inch laptop or your essentials plus a book, sunglasses, and a trifold wallet.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,850
JW Anderson Bumper Bag
JW Anderson bags are some of the most coveted season after season. Creative Director Jonathan Anderson is a true visionary who wows us each season he presents his namesake collection and his collections for Loewe. According to Maguire, JW Anderson is consistently one of the most popular brands at Shopbop, especially when it comes to accessories and handbags.
This bag has a thin adjustable leather shoulder strap with a patent finish, gold-tone hardware, and a padded trim. It’s crafted from the best quality leather by artisans in Spain. Fixed with a zip closure and interior card slot. Pair it with your go-to straight-leg jeans, lightweight sweaters, and penny loafers.
Price upon publish date of this article: $595
Are Designer Shoulder Bags Worth It?
Yes, a shoulder bag is a wise investment. Since the designer resale market is hot, your bag will hold its value and be re-sellable. Another great bonus to a designer shoulder bag is that they’re truly timeless.
“We see bags as seasonless, a staple that can transition with you from day to night, summer to fall, or year to year,” Maguire explains. “From experimenting with new colorways and materials to incorporating vintage silhouettes or modernizing classic styles, your bag is timeless and can be used to freshen up any look,” she adds.
To ensure that your designer shoulder bag lasts the test of time and everyday elements, it’s important to treat them well. “As mentioned, we want these bags to last! I always store my bags in a duster bag on a shelf or in a drawer, keeping all the dust away and helping the bag maintain its shape,” notes Maguire.
Shoulder bags have been in style for decades. They first gained traction in the 1940s during the Second World War when practicality was of the utmost importance. Women would sling their shoulder bags on and head to their job or wartime support efforts. In the 1960s, however, the Space Age influenced the style. Chic women were sporting miniskirts, thin ribbed knits, minimal jewelry, go-go boots, and shoulder bags in various colors and materials. As style continued to evolve, the shoulder bag became hugely iconic in the ‘90s and early 2000s. Every style star and celebrity from Paris Hilton and Britney Spears to The Spice Girls was rocking low-rise denim, crop tops, platforms, and shoulder bags in sequins, patent leather, velvet, and studded iterations. While the shoulder bag style has evolved in terms of fabrication and silhouette, its classic function and versatility have remained constant, making it one of the essential bag styles to invest in.
What to Look for In the Best Shoulder Bags for 2023
- Features: Shoulder bags often come with a short strap, but there are also versions with longer straps and those with adjustable straps. This allows the shopper to change the length of the bag depending on their outerwear should they need a bit more wiggle room. An adjustable strap essentially acts as multiple bags in one — who can resist that? Shoulder bags typically come fixed with a zipper or snap closure and either inner compartments to separate your essentials or one main compartment for everything.
- Materials: Designer shoulder bags come in luscious suede, buttery leather, and patent leather, adorned with sparkly embellishments, satin, and velvet options. They come fixed with gold chain straps, soft suede ones, and removable straps so you can wear your shoulder bag as a clutch bag. High-quality materials only get better with age and wear. The materials will also play a big role in the shape of your bag. The softer the material, like satin, the more pillowy your shoulder bag will look. The more rugged the material, like a box-leather, the more structure your shoulder bag will have. “A handbag is a staple piece — an essential to complement your existing (and evolving) wardrobe — so quality is very important when choosing your favorite. In addition, you want your handbag to last, so I always look for high-quality leathers, hardware, and materials, as this goes a long way when your bag is constantly by your side,” suggests Maguire.
- Size: From larger that are great for the office and bucket styles that are perfect for hitting the flea market to sparkly or embellished versions that are meant for your next party look, you can’t go wrong with a designer shoulder bag. Perfect for every occasion, designer shoulder bags come in all different shapes and sizes. As the Fendi Baguette trend of the early 2000s showed us, a short strap adds a cool, sporty twist to your look, while a larger shoulder bag will add more of a casual spin.
How We Selected the Best Designer Shoulder Bags
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
To create this list of the best shoulder bags of 2024, our editors reviewed recent runway to zero in on top shoulder bag trends in terms of shape, hardware, and color. In addition to researching the market, our editorial team conducted hands-on testing with the top shoulder bags on this list. Our editors purchased some of the shoulder bags for testing, evaluated samples sent from top handbag brands, and scoured consignment shops to get hands-on with rare shoulder bags. During testing, we evaluated materials, construction, capacity, and special features of the shoulder bags to ensure they deserved a spot on our list of top shoulder bags. We also interviewed a fashion expert for input on what to look for in top shoulder bags and additional advice on caring for these luxury accessories. Our list includes a mix of trending silhouettes and colorways as well as classic shoulder bags that present as timeless accessories. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Caroline Maguire has been the Fashion Director of Shopbop for nearly a decade. Prior to Shopbop, she has held Fashion Director positions at Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales. You can follow Shopbop on Instagram at @shopbop.
Meet the Authors
Elana Zajdman is a freelance editor, writer, stylist and brand consultant who covers all things accessories and jewelry. Based between New York and Paris, her bylines have appeared in InStyle, Marie Claire, VOGUE.com, WWD, Natural Diamond Council, and Footwear News. She is the founder and curator of Estelle Galerie, an online repository for hand-made-to-order jewelry and vintage relics. Zajdman was the senior accessories and jewelry editor of InStyle magazine for six years, and prior to that she was the accessories editor at Marie Claire and fashion market associate at Vogue.com. Zajdman wrote the original version of this article on top shoulder bags.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stories. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, as well as the latest shopping trends from top handbag brands. Sullivan regularly tests handbags for consideration in WWD Shop stories, and she contributed to the June 2024 update of this article on the best luxury shoulder bags.
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