Let’s talk about mini crossbody handbags, my friends. If you haven’t yet gotten your hands on one these little numbers, they’re lining up to be one of fall’s biggest (and uh, smallest) trends. I’ve been coveting one for practical reasons as well; because I log a lot of hours following my son around the park or the playground, I love the idea of hauling nothing more than my phone, wallet, and key — but sometimes I want something a little more versatile than the mini backpacks that are also so big right now.
So lucky me that a major trend this fall is the shrinkification of crossbody bags!
Check out some of my favorite mini crossbody handbags for this fall and winter — and beyond. They’re compact, cute, and a lot less hassle than a clutch.
Here’s to treating our lower backs better this fall! And looking great in the process.
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If I’m investing in a larger handbag that needs to last a few years, I opt for neutral colors that will go with anything. But affordable mini crossbody handbags present the perfect opportunity to play with funky colors I normally wouldn’t. And I’m really digging this Hobo Fern crossbody bag in a gorgeous, moody moonshadow blue. But the metallics (Burnt Bronze shown at very top) are pretty hot too. ($118-128, Hobo Bags)
IMHO, you can never go wrong with a classic Kate Spade silhouette, and I love how this Kate Spade Alena mini crossbody handbag plays around with proportions. It’s just as grown up looking as a full-sized handbag, as you can see in the close-up shot, only…fun-sized! And black is classic, of course. ($186 on sale right now, Nordstrom)
Leave it to my favorite snarky Project Runway judge to offer up the perfect mini handbag in this petite, 10-inch wide Michael Kors Adele Mini Crossbody I love the fall neutrals including an essential black, and the practical double compartments are so smart. ($198, Macy’s)
Related: 5 fabulous floral dresses you can totally wear this fall.
If you’re looking for a sportier mini crossbody, try this affordable, gender-neutral canvas Alder mini crossbody from Herschel Supply. Pair it with your your favorite jeans to upgrade your casual look — and it comes in some awesome colors including an on-trend cheetah print and a cool camo. At this price, get two! ($29.99, Herschel Supply)
We’ve been big fans of the women-empowering, living-wage-paying brand ABLE (previously FashionABLE) for years now, in part because they do so many great things for the women they employ. And they just keep giving us more reasons to adore them. For example, this understated Mare mini crossbody bag (also at top) that’s new to their growing collection. I think I’ve found my new favorite go-with-anything in their stunning fog and bone color scheme, but the denim blue, shown here, makes for a fresh neutral. ($98, ABLE, shipping in Oct.)
Related: 15 beautiful gifts that give back — beautifully
I’m really taken with the pebbled leather on this sophisticated Rebecca Minkoff Mini Darren Messenger Bag from her popular leather Darren handbag collection. As simple the silhouette, it’s a really beautiful nuance, along with the turnkey clas and her trademark fringes. The handle and detachable straps even allow you to carry it like a clutch for night time. But you know — with crossbodies in style, I’m cool using that strap to go hands-free for cocktails and hand-shaking. ($195, Rebecca Minkoff)
