Small Bags With Big Style

Small Bags With Big Style

Photo Credit: Getty Images

 

The crossbody bag has long been a favorite carryall of savvy city girls, explorers, travelers and bicycle messengers. As fashion trends lean further and further towards the minimal and monochromatic (think Celine), accessory trends have followed. Statement necklaces have been replaced with dainty personal jewelry and It bags are mostly ultra-small, or ultra-unbranded.
Enter: The mini crossbody bag.

This fusion of our favorite trends has yielded the season's most fun and practical bag. Whether you stick to classic black or branch out to punchy pinks, this bag shape should be at the top of your shopping list in 2016.

Most of our favorite crossbody bags have either a zip closure or a top flap because they're nice and secure. (Since these bags are the perfect size for concerts and parties, you'll want to be able to rest easy as you dance and socialize.)
Ahead, shop our 10 favorite mini crossbody bags of the season from brands like Cambridge Satchel Co., Rebecca Minkoff, Kate Spade and more.

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A Cranberry Saddle Bag from Sophie Hulme

Photo Credit: Sophie Hulme

 

Sophie Hulme is a rising star in the accessories world, and we can't get enough of her modern handbag silhouettes and standout hardware. This mini saddle bag is a diversion from her usual angular bags, and that might be why we like it so much. It comes in shades of berry, ivory and blue, but you really can't go wrong.
Sophie Hulme mini saddle crossbody bag, $495.

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A Mini Version of a Versatile Modern Classic

Photo Credit: Loeffler Randall

 

We love this micro version of Loeffler Randall's ultra-successful (and crazy-versatile) Rider bag because it doubles as a waist bag and a crossbody. It comes in a multitude of colors from periwinkle to cherry red, black and nude.
Loeffler Randall 'Baby Rider' bag, $295.  

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A Ladylike Top Handle Bag

Photo Credit: Michael Kors

 

The Michael Kors mini messenger bag was everywhere last year, but the Ava offeres a delightful and slightly less brand-forward alternative. The ladylike shape is perfect for those with more timeless sensibilities, but the crossbody strap makes it practical and youthful, too. (We'd remove the 'MK' tag.)
Michael Kors 'Ava' extra small bag, $178.

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A Showstopper in an Unexpected Color

Photo Credit: Alexander Wang

 

There are few reasons not to love this mini Alexander Wang bag, but we think the color is one of it's biggest draw. Called 'Latte,' it's not qutie brown, not quite nude... Like that perfect espresso drink. This bag is sure to stand out and work seamlessly with dove grey and camel winter coats, and will really pop with black.
Alexander 'Mini Prisma' bag, $550.

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A Shrunken Schoolgirl Bag

Photo Credit: Cambridge Satchel Co.

 

 

The Cambridge Satchel 'Tiny Satchel' comes in a rainbow of neutral and pastel hues, making it fun and versatile. The simple design without many pockets means you can easily pack your phone, wallet and sunglasses for any occasion.
Cambridge Satchel Tiny Satchel, $120.

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A Bohemian Twist on an Equestrian Staple

Photo Credit: Rebecca Minkoff

 

Part of the reason we love this bag so much is because it doesn't look like any of the typical Rebecca Minkoff handbags that have become so popular. The saddle-style bag is sleek and bohemian at the same time which makes it a perfect bag for a free-spirited city dweller.
Rebecca Minkoff 'Mini Suki' bag, $225.

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A Playful Little Something Different

Photo Credit: Furla

 

If your mini bag craving is leaning towards something a little less conventional but no less versatile, try the circular Furla 'Yoyo' bag. It has all the classic appeal of a small leather crossbody but the completely round shape is playful and cool.
Furla 'Yoyo' bag set, $228.

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A Bag So Little They Call It 'Nano'

Photo Credit: Elizabeth and James

 

Instead of the usual black or nude, try a mini bag in this rich cranberry shade. You'll find that it works seamlessly with your winter staples but also looks incredibly sophisticated (and slightly unexpected!) with white or prints come summer. We love the simple design (and great price point) of the Elizabeth and James 'Cynnie' nano bag in soft lambskin.
Elizabeth and James 'Cynnie' nano bag, $195. 

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A 'Pretty In Pink' Mini Moment

Photo Credit: Kate Spade

 

Don't be afraid to embrace your girly side, especially this spring. Kate Spade's ultra-feminine accessories (with crisp classic lines) work perfectly with the season's crochet and lace frocks we'll all be wearing. This blush pink bag is the perfect thing to pair with dresses from Self Portrait, Lovers + Friends and For Love and Lemons, trust us.
Kate Spade 'Cami' mini crossbody, $148. 

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A Sophisticated Pop of (Even Brighter) Pink

Photo Credit: Diane Von Furstenberg

 

If your bag wardrobe is already well-stocked with neutrals and basic colors and shapes—it's time to get creative. The bold and rich hue of this Diane Von Furstenberg bag guarantees it will draw some eyes, but rest assured that this tiny crossbody will become one that you'll reach for again and again. When your all-black (or all-white) ensemble, favorite party dress or basic jeans-and-a-t-shirt outfit needs a lift—this is the bag that will change the game.

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