Every woman needs her version of a Mary Poppins bag. Shoulder bags serve just that purpose. They’re the bag that holds everything you need – from your laptop to your car keys and a backup makeup bag.
Shoulder bags are a hands-free option that you can wear from the office to your next jet-set vacation. They’re the perfect piece to start building your designer handbag collection.
We’re rounding up our list of the best shoulder bags for women, including a few cult favorites from brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci. These are the shoulder bags that are destined to become your signature accessory.
1. Saint Laurent Loulou Puffer Toy Quilted Leather Shoulder Bag, $2,100
A shoulder bag is an easy way to add a pop of color to your closet. Saint Laurent’s “Loulou” bag comes in a rainbow of shades, including this bold fuchsia pink that you can buy at Nordstrom and Net-a-Porter.
This quilted leather shoulder bag is an alternative to more expensive Chanel styles.
Expertly crafted in Italy from smooth quilted leather, the Loulou shoulder bag has a detachable strap that allows you to convert it to an evening clutch
The LouLou bag is inspired by Loulou de la Falaise, the style muse of Yves Saint Laurent. The spacious compartment will hold all your essentials and features the classic ‘YSL’ interlocked initial logo.
2. Gucci GG Marmont Camera Mini Shoulder Bag, $1,490
Every designer bag collection needs a camera bag. Gucci’s Marmont camera bag is an understated classic that you’ll wear for years to come.
The Gucci Marmont camera bag has a compact profile decorated with burnished gold hardware that references an archival plaque from the ’70s
It’s influenced by the brand’s signature styles from the ‘70s with a sleek silhouette. Available at SSENSE and Net-a-Porter, this shoulder bag is the perfect size between a mini bag and a tote. Add one to your closet as your ultimate travel companion.
3. Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis, $2,840
Satchels are a classic shoulder bag style. Louis Vuitton’s Pochette Metis is one of the brand’s best-selling styles and is difficult to get your hands on. Although a relatively new style, it pays homage to the brand’s heritage.
Made from Monogram Empreinte leather, the Pochette Metis features a satchel silhouette with an S-lock closure inspired by historic House trunks
This bag is a briefcase meets satchel with an elegant top handle and shoulder strap. You can use the three interior compartments to organize your essentials, while the exterior zipped pocket is the right size for storing cards or spare cash.
4. Gucci Jackie 1961 Shoulder Bag, $2,950
Gucci is one brand that is looking back into its archive for inspiration.
The “Jackie 1961” is one of the brand’s most infamous styles and got its place in fashion history after appearing on the arm of Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
Originally called the Fifties Constance, the Jackie 1961 has become an iconic style after it was spotted on the arm of former first lady Jackie Kennedy
After returning to Gucci’s permanent line, the Jackie 1961 bag is one of the brand’s most understated styles. The bag has an instantly recognizable shape with a buckle closure and a second strap that gives the bag a contemporary feel and extra versatility.
5. Saint Laurent Uptown Chain Wallet, $1,190 at YSL
Shoulder bags don’t have to be tote bags. A wallet on a chain is one of the smallest shoulder bags you’ll find. They’re style meets functionality.
A wallet-on-chain bag, the Uptown is a mini envelop bag with YSL initials and a removable chain shoulder strap
Saint Laurent’s “Uptown” bag is one of their best-sellers and the perfect choice for someone who is always on the go. It features a removable chain strap to give you the option of wearing it as a shoulder bag or a clutch.
6. Gucci Dionysus Small GG Bag, $2,890 at Mytheresa
Another classic Gucci shoulder bag is the “Dionysus.” It features archive heritage material with a reimagined GG Supreme print.
Done in Gucci’s signature material, the Dionysus features the archival GG Supreme design from the 1930s
This bag takes its inspiration from the 1930s and reflects the brand’s history. You can adjust the strap to wear it as a shoulder bag or top handle. The large interior compartment is the ideal size for holding your phone, keys, and other essentials.
7. Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM, $2,030
One of the most recognizable and sought-after shoulder bags is Louis Vuitton’s “Neverfull.” This bag has gone on to inspire hundreds of other shoulder bags and is one of the most popular choices to kickstart your designer handbag.
Combining timeless design with heritage details, the Neverfull MM is made from supple Monogram canvas and features cowhide trims and slim shoulder straps
Although available in three sizes, the Neverfull MM is usually the ideal choice. It’s big enough to hold a laptop and other travel essentials without being uncomfortable to carry.
The Neverfull MM is available in Louis Vuitton’s three signature canvas prints and other materials, including its Empreinte leather and epi leather.
8. Coach Pillow Tabby Shoulder Bag 18, $395 at Nordstrom
Coach is an American brand making a major comeback with its “Pillow Tabby” bag. You’ll find this style available in an array of colors, from muted neutrals to bold pastels.
This bag is available in several sizes, with the petite 18 size offering a detachable strap that allows you to wear the Tabby as a shoulder bag or crossbody.
The Pillow Tabby reimagines the structured silhouette of an archival 1970s Coach design with plush, ultra-soft padded leather
The Pillow Tabby sits at an attainable price point with its ultra-soft leather and Coach’s signature hardware. This Nappa leather bag will help you seamlessly transition your closet from one season to the next.
9. Saint Laurent Hobo Shoulder Bag, $2,250 at Farfetch
Give your closet a bohemian feel with a classic hobo shoulder bag. Saint Laurent’s interpretation of the style gives it a more structured silhouette.
This calfskin leather bag features a YSL hook closure and bronze-tone hardware for a classic look.
A structured hobo shoulder bag that boasts the YSL logo hook closure
The Saint Laurent hobo bag is the perfect size to throw over your shoulder for a night on the town.
10. Michael Kors Voyager Large Saffiano Tote Bag, $398 at Zappos
The “Voyager” tote bag is Michael Kors’ answer to Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull bag. This bag is the all-in-one that will take you from a day at the office to a day out in the city.
A practical bag that won’t break the bank, the Voyager from Michael Kors is created from Saffiano leather with slim shoulder straps and topstitch detailing
The clean-lined silhouette is designed with organization in mind, giving you a front slip pocket to store your essentials and a spacious interior for your laptop. This bag is 100% Saffiano leather and features timeless gold-tone hardware that is effortlessly chic.
11. Gucci Horsebit 1955 Shoulder Bag, $2,890 at Farfetch
Do you like the Louis Vuitton Pochette Metis but want an equestrian look? Try Gucci’s “Horsebit 1955” shoulder bag. This classic style from 1955 was recreated from the archival design for the 2020 Cruise collection.
It features Gucci’s double ring and bar design with a sleek horsebit. You can adjust the strap to wear it as a shoulder bag or lengthen it to go hands-free with a crossbody style.
The Gucci 1955 Horsebit shoulder bag is another recreation of an archival design, featuring the Horsebit detail and beige monogram canvas
This curated collection of shoulder bags will give you inspiration for your next person. Each style is a classic option that blends contemporary trends with timeless silhouettes.