12 Sling Bags That Keep Your Necessities Close to the Chest

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

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.

Round Mini Shoulder Bag

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.”

Slouchy Banana Leather Shoulder Bag

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

Om The Go Gym Sling Bag

Whether its your bag for the gym, travel, work, or all of the above, this sling bag is a well-rounded option.

Material: Polyester

Customer review: “So beautiful on and super comfy! Also so stylish! I absolutely love this bag!!”

Swing Crossbody

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

Sling Bag

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

Everywhere Belt Bag

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!!!”

Small Antigona Leather Crossbody Bag

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

Large Leather Shoulder Purse Casual Hobo

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.”

Leather Sling Bag

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

Anton Sling Leather Shoulder Bag

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

Chelsea Leather Sling Bag

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

Hobo Sling Croissant Shoulder Bag

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.

Why Trust ELLE

Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

You Might Also Like

• The 15 Best Organic And Clean Shampoos For Any And All Hair Types

• 100 Gifts That Are $50 Or Under (And Look Way More Expensive Than They Actually Are)