12 Sling Bags to Hold All Your Necessities
In the world of effortless bags, slings reign supreme.
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Fusing convenience and style, the sling bag is a quintessential accessory for any woman on the go. As a shopping writer with a penchant for handbags, I know this fact well, as does ELLE’s senior fashion commerce editor, Dale Arden Chong, who lent me her expertise on the matter. “Much like the best crossbody bags, sling bags are functional (hello, hands-free lifestyle) without compromising on style,” she says. Luckily for busy people everywhere, the style has become trendy over the past year or so. Indeed, the utility of a sling lies in its ability to provide convenience without sacrificing style.
“They’re the perfect go-to option for when you only want to carry the essentials, and then some,” Chong says. “And, depending on the one you choose, they can be a great way to give your outfits an edge of downtown cool. Personally speaking, I love the options that feel a little more practical with zippers and inner pockets; they have the ability to fit a lot without looking overstuffed.” Ahead, find 12 sling bags where practicality meets panache.
Pros
- Perfect size
- Adjustable strap
- Affordable
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons
- Very Casual
Don’t be fooled by size, this bag packs a big punch. You may have seen it go viral on TikTok, and it was actually one of the best-selling products of 2023. In fact, it’s so perfect that we gave it a review of its own.
Dimensions: Length: 24.4 inches; width: 11 inches; height: 6.7 inches
Material: Nylon
Customer review: “This is a fun stylish bag, easy everyday carry. Lots of fun colors too.”
Pros
- Durable leather
- Designer
- Adjustable strap
Cons
- Small capacity
The Row just knows how to make a good bag. This one is timeless, chic, and perfect for taking a look from day to night.
Dimensions: Length: 13.4 inches; width: 13.2 inches; height: 5.9 inches
Material: Leather
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Casual
- Too big for certain uses
Pros
- Adjustable strap
- Durable leather
- Easy to dress down or up
- Medium capacity
Cons
- Minimal organization
This sling is crafted from supple smooth-grain leather and has a wide strap that can be held or slung effortlessly across the body.
Dimensions: Length: 3.93 inches; width: 12.36 inches; height: 4.33 inches
Material: Leather, cotton
Pros
- Machine washable
- Sustainably made
- Adjustable strap
- Sustainable
- Large capacity
- Good organization
Cons
This bag from Cuyana is extremely versatile. It comes in three different sizes and—drum roll, please—is washable.
Dimensions: Length: 8-13 inches; width: 16 inches; height: 9.5 inches
Material: Recycled plastic
Pros
- Waterproof
- Great for errands or travel
- Adjustable strap
- Good interior organization
Cons
- Small capacity
This washable bag is everywhere, including my closet—and my mom’s, sister’s, and roomate’s, to name a few... It is truly the easiest thing to throw on. I resisted for a brief moment and can only say I wish I had bought it sooner.
Dimensions: Length: 7 inches; width: 2 inches; height: 5 inches
Material: Recycled polyester, nylon
Customer review: “I purchased immediately as it was added to the site on the release day. I didn’t even have time to add more to my cart. I love it!!!”
Pros
- Chic
- Designer
- Durable leather
- Adjustable strap
- Exterior pocket and interior card slots
Cons
- Small capacity
- Small opening
This is your classic black sling but with a more interesting structure. It will go with just about everything.
Dimensions: Length: 2 inches; width: 9 inches; height: 2 inches
Material: Leather
Pros
- Under $50
- Vegan leather
- Adjustable strap
- Easy to dress up or down
- Medium capacity
Cons
This bag has all the convenience of a sling bag, plus all the style points of a designer purse.
Dimensions: Length: 14.2 inches; width: 4.3 inches; height: 7.5 inches
Material: Vegan leather
Customer review: “The material feels great, nice and soft.”
Maison de Sabré Leather Sling Bag
Pros
- Durable, sustainable leather
- Available in a variety of colors
- Adjustable strap
- Has key leash and pockets
Cons
- Small capacity
This bag is like the Goldilocks of price and quality—and it comes in three great colors.
Dimensions: Length: 13.5 inches; width: 13 inches: height; 3 inches
Material: Leather
Pros
- Designer
- Good organization
- Adjustable strap
Cons
This stunning bag is designed with efficient organization in mind. Multiple compartments and pockets ensure that your belongings are easily accessible, adding a practical dimension to its beyond-cool factor.
Dimensions: Length: 27.5 inches; width: 6.5 inches; height: 13.5 inches
Material: Leather
Pros
- Wear it as a sling, crossbody, or shoulder bag
- Durable leather
- Has two pockets
Cons
- Very small capacity
Don’t forget that sling bags can be worn over the shoulder, too. This one is specifically designed as a shoulder bag, providing a comfortable and stylish alternative to a traditional hand or sling bag.
Dimensions: Length: 4.5 inches; width: 1 inches; height: 5 inches
Material: Leather
Pros
- Affordable
- Adjustable strap
- Available in four colors
Cons
- Only has one pocket
In its compact form, this sling bag manages to encapsulate sophistication, proving that style doesn’t always require bulk—or a hefty price.
Dimensions: Length: 15.75; width: 4.72 inches; height: 11.46 inches
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Almost wasn’t going to post this review so I can keep this brand to myself but decided not to gatekeep an amazing find lol. I’ve been looking for an elevated crescent bag for every day use for months, and believe me, this is the ONE!!!”
Meet the Experts
- Dale Arden Chong is ELLE’s senior fashion commerce editor. Previously, she was an editor at MensHealth.com and has written for Who What Wear, GLAMOUR, The Coveteur, and more.
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