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10 Best Designer Shoulder Bags of 2025
Fall is here, and, with it, we’re all realizing once again just how crucial of an investment luxury shoulder bags are — above all other purse styles, dare we suggest. Such bags, whether angular or boho-chic and slouchy, tend to be a gal’s go-to: used like a daily commuter bag, a handy hauler for weekend adventures, or the cherry on top of a chic date-night ‘fit.
A truly worth-every-penny shoulder bag allows the wearer to go hands-free, moving with ease while it fits comfortably under their arm. But not every luxury shoulder bag is meant to be a daytime catchall for cherished tchotchkes. Petite purses that hang on the shoulder can and should be used in fancier settings, completing your evening ensemble when you’re headed to the opera, say (think the iconic Fendi Baguette or elongated East-West styles that might not be able to house your tablet but can add valuable oomph to any outfit). Alaia’s popular Le Teckel and Jil Sander’s cute Cannolo bag also make a great case for small shoulder bags that go a long way, as they look ladylike as can be (a big fall 2025 trend) while featuring just the right amount of structure.
Regardless of which designer handbag style has caught your eye this season, you’ll want to consider the parameters of any given bag to find one that best suits both your aesthetic and your daily needs. “Since I am always on the go, size is a big factor,” Caroline Maguire, senior fashion director at Shopbop, tells WWD. “My shoulder bag needs to be big enough to carry all my essentials — like a tote bag — but small enough to transition to a crossbody without being too clunky.”
Below, we highlight the 10 best designer shoulder bag styles you can shop right now, ranging from the petite and stackable to the slouchy and accommodating. Happy shopping!
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Madewell The Mylie Suede Shoulder Bag
Though you might be best acquainted with Madewell through its It-girl-approved denim selections, you’d be remiss not to pay attention to the brand’s on-trend and in-season handbag selections (that become instant bestsellers as soon as they drop). Case in point: The Mylie Suede Shoulder Bag, which taps into the hot-right-now material that’s considered a more bougie spin on traditional leather. All the biggest names in fashion are rolling out their own suede shoulder bag iterations, from Fendi to Prada to Gabriela Hearst. Madewell, though, stands out from the crowd because of its affordability factor on pieces that nonetheless fit squarely into the luxury category.
The Mylie doles out visual interest by contrasting its rich brown suede with an all-black leather handle. Though said handle is not adjustable, contrary to those of many handbag options in this roundup, it’s nevertheless supremely comfortable and will make sure The Mylie slides easily under your arm. The bag’s interior is lofty enough to house everything from your water bottle to a notebook, while the zippered compartment is there for smaller valuables (one Nordstrom reviewer says the Madewell top hit “holds a lot but is not ridiculously oversized,” an ideal balance in our eyes).
Price upon publish date of this article: $198
Dooney & Bourke Penrose Hobo 25 Bag
Dooney & Bourke’s much-loved Penrose Hobo 25 silhouette proves that designer shoulder bags don’t necessarily need to come with a designer-level price tag attached. Clocking in at just under $100, this gem benefits from slight slouch, a full-grain cowhide leather finish, and an 8-inch strap drop that makes it a fit for being carried on your shoulder, in your hand, or in the crook of your arm (like what Chloé models were doing with the Paddington during the label’s fall 2025 presentation).
The Smoke colorway in question is neutral enough to complement whatever you’re wearing, be it baggy denim in an indigo hue or a bright-red cocktail gown. Considering the resurgence of D&B bag styles in the early aughts, this is just the purchase for showing off your obsession with all things Y2K.
Price upon publish date of this article: $99
Cuyana Mini Paloma Bag
An elevated take on an everyday bag, Cuyana’s Mini Paloma — launched this May — is something that is guaranteed to serve you well during busy weekends in the city, date nights, travels (when stowed neatly in an overnight bag), and more. Compact and flaunting essential organizational features like a handy key loop, the bag is also done up in soft and supple Italian leather that only gets better with age.
Cuyana operates on the “fewer, better” philosophy, focusing on timeless pieces that can be worn across an entire lifetime: existing outside of the trend cycle and fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle. That being said, this just might be the shoulder bag purchase to end all shoulder bag purchases, based on how optimal its cost-per-wear ratio will become as you incorporate the Mini Paloma into every last one of your ensembles.
Price upon publication of this article: $398
Coach Trail Bag in Crystal Signature Jacquard
Vanity case–like bags were, quite unexpectedly, all the rage on fall 2025 runways this year. Providing flashes of hardware and zip-around charm, they exude a certain level of French sophistication — which is bound to go a long way in the context of your autumnal outfits.
Coach’s Trail Bag pays homage to a 1994 design from the brand, with no detail left unconsidered. Here, you’ll be getting the best of all worlds when it comes to Coach’s signature materials, as the bag takes advantage of both glove-tanned leather and crystal-embellished jacquard. Eye-catching but never flashy, it’s something that’s capable of holding your phone, lipstick, wallet, sunglasses case, and more: with two removable straps of different sizes for wearing it however you want, whether that be top handle– or crossbody-style.
Price upon publish date of this article: $250
Freja New York Mini Chrystie Bag
Allow us to introduce you to the emerging handbag brand that’s on the lips of every fashion insider right now: Freja New York. Recently, we’ve seen Freja bags carried by Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Lawrence, Katie Holmes, and, most notably, Sarah Jessica Parker. What’s to love? The female-owned label is known for its minimalist sentiment and usage of vegan leather that’s ultra-durable and resistant to stains (just take a damp washcloth to the material and even ketchup disappears sans residue).
The Freja Mini Chrystie is editor-tested and editor-approved. Its straps are long enough to sit comfortably over a sweater, and it hits at a flattering point near the mid-waist. Inside, the small shoulder bag is lined in vegan suede that goes soft on delicate goods like designer wallets or vials of perfume. It’s spacious enough to house all that plus an iPhone 17. We see no flaws.
Price upon publication of this article: $268
WWD Shop’s contributing shopping editor Claire Sullivan tests Freja New York’s Mini Chrystie.
WWD/Adam Mansuroglu
Gucci Jackie Small Shoulder Bag
While the Gucci Jackie Shoulder Bag has been a brand staple since it debuted in 1961, the style’s recent popularity surge has reintroduced the bag to a younger audience. Variations of this leather shoulder bag have been seen on stars ranging from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (its namesake) to Kate Moss and, more recently, Dua Lipa to Taylor Swift.
As one of Gucci’s best handbags of all time, it has a trending crescent shape that sits snugly under the arm, a rich, Italian leather finish, and a gleaming piston clasp that gives the bag some desirable edge. A true icon of our time, this is a top shoulder bag that you’ll get complimented on year-round.
Price upon publication of this article: $3,950
WWD Shop editors test the Gucci Jackie in our New York City office.
WWD/Adam Mansuroglu
Ralph Lauren Polo ID Mini Shoulder Bag
There’s a newfound appreciation for Ralph Lauren’s stunning, equestrian-coded designs this season, thanks to renewed interest in classic Americana fashion and the continual sway of the quiet-luxury aesthetic. The Polo ID Calfskin Mini Shoulder Bag deserves high marks for its intriguing and useful dual-compartment saddle design that prioritizes style without sacrificing functionality. Interestingly enough, the carryall can transform into a croissant-shaped (or fortune cookie–shaped!) wristlet at the blink of an eye, making it the dictionary definition of a “versatile wonder.”
Not a fan of the pictured tan hue? There are six more core shades to choose from and they all align with the buzziest colors of the season (we’re partial to Pomegranate and the sumptuous brown Cuoio).
Price upon publish date of this article: $498
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote Shoulder Bag
Mansur Gavriel became a smash success with the initial launch of its now-beloved bucket bag, but the Everyday Soft Tote is another of the brand’s top-selling favorites that you shouldn’t sleep on. Soft yet shapely, it’s crafted out of glossy leather, with a matte interior and tethered zip pouch for housing your tiny must-haves (think lip gloss and contact lenses). This is a piece you can totally use as a work bag, while effortlessly transitioning it to a tote for the kinds of five-to-nine shenanigans that merit something a little more upscale in the style department.
“I love the simple beauty of this tote. The leather and stitching are impeccable,” one satisfied Nordstrom reviewer shares. Use this information wisely and treat this shoulder bag as an essential, pre-holiday, self-care splurge.
Price upon publish date of this article: $795
Tory Burch Robinson Spazzolato Leather Shoulder Bag
The “Tory Burch renaissance” shows no signs of slowing down — propelled by regular social media virality and fortuitous street-style sightings. There’s no better way to get on board than with the Robinson Spazzolato: a top Tory Burch bag whose elegant structure, adjustable crossbody strap, magnetic closure, and interior card slot come together to fuse utility with preppy-chic looks.
Available in ultra-pleasing colorways (like this Dark Sienna) that track with what the fashion set is prioritizing these days, the petite Tory Burch shoulder bag further boosts its visual appeal with artful stitching and signature logo hardware. You’ll be drawn to it for all of life’s occasions, as it’s not too fussy yet carries an undeniable air of sophistication.
Price upon publish date of this article: $420
Saint Laurent Calypso Large Bag
When our editors first laid eyes — and hands! — on Saint Laurent’s Calypso Bag, you better believe there were audible “oohs” and “ahhs.” This striking, envelope-shaped shoulder bag (aligned with the flap crossbody trend that was propelled by the fall 2025 collections of fashion houses like Khaite) is unbelievably soft to the touch; it’s made from supple, pillowy lambskin whose grainy texture contrasts aptly with the bestselling bag’s gold detailing. That sliding chain strap allows you to wear it classically or with a longer drop that sits near the hips: whichever feels more comfortable at any given moment.
You won’t be left wanting in terms of capacity, as this large designer shoulder bag can fit all your belongings (plus a change of clothes or a makeup pouch).
Price upon publication of this article: $3,600
WWD Shop editors test Saint Laurent’s Calypso Large Bag in our New York City office.
WWD/Adam Mansuroglu
Are Designer Shoulder Bags Worth It?
Yes, a shoulder bag is a wise investment. Since the designer resale market is perpetually hot, your bag will hold its value and be resellable. Another great bonus? Designer shoulder bags are truly timeless.
“We see bags as seasonless, a staple that can transition with you from day to night, summer to fall, or year to year,” Maguire explains. “From experimenting with new colorways and materials to incorporating vintage silhouettes or modernizing classic styles, your bag can be used to freshen up any look.”
To ensure that your designer shoulder bag lasts the test of time, it’s important to treat it well. “As mentioned, we want these bags to last! I always store my bags in a duster bag on a shelf or in a drawer, keeping all the dust away and helping the bag maintain its shape,” notes Maguire.
History of Shoulder Bags
Shoulder bags have been in style for decades. They first gained traction in the 1940s during the Second World War (when practicality was of the utmost importance). Women would sling their shoulder bags on and head out to help with wartime support efforts. In the 1960s, however, the Space Age influenced the style. Chic women were sporting miniskirts, thin ribbed knits, minimal jewelry, go-go boots, and shoulder bags in various materials-slash-colorways.
As sartorial choices of the day continued to evolve, the shoulder bag became hugely iconic in the ‘90s and early 2000s. Every style star and celebrity — from Paris Hilton and Britney Spears to The Spice Girls — was rocking low-rise denim, crop tops, platforms, and shoulder bags adorned by sequins, studs, and other trending touches. While the shoulder bag has shapeshifted throughout the decades in terms of fabrication and silhouette, its classic versatility has remained a constant, making this one of the best bag styles to invest in this year.
What to Look for in the Best Shoulder Bags of 2025
Features: Shoulder bags often come with a short strap, but there are also versions with longer straps and those with adjustable straps. This allows the wearer to change the length of the bag depending on their outerwear du jour, should they need a bit more wiggle room. An adjustable strap essentially helps your purchase act like multiple bags in one… and who can resist that? Shoulder bags typically come fixed with a zipper or snap closure, as well as multiple inner compartments to separate your essentials or one main compartment for everything.
Materials: Designer shoulder bags typically come in luscious suede or buttery leather — high-quality materials that only get better with age and wear. Note that the softer the fabric of your bag, the more pillowy it will look. On the other hand, the more rugged it is, in the vein of box leather, the more structure your shoulder bag will benefit from. “A handbag is a staple piece — an essential to complement your existing (and evolving) wardrobe — so quality is very important when choosing your favorite,” says Maguire. “In addition, you want your handbag to last, so I always look for high-quality leathers, hardware, and materials, as this goes a long way when your bag is constantly by your side.”
Size: From larger tote styles that are great for the office to compact East-West purses perfect for amping up your next party look, you can’t go wrong with a designer shoulder bag. Luckily, in 2025, there’s a myriad of options on the market as far as sizing is concerned. When deliberating on the proportions of a women’s shoulder bag, take into account where you’re planning on wearing it and, subsequently, how many items you plan on storing inside.
How We Selected the Best Designer Shoulder Bags
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
To create this list of the best women’s designer shoulder bags, our editors reviewed recent designer runways to zero in on the top handbag trends in terms of shape, hardware, size, and color. In addition to researching the market, our editorial team conducted hands-on testing with the top shoulder bags on this list. During this testing period, we evaluated materials, construction, capacity, and special features of the shoulder bags to ensure they deserved a spot in our roundup. We also interviewed a fashion expert for input on what to consider when shoulder-bag shopping, as well as on how to properly care for these luxury accessories. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Caroline Maguire has been Shopbop’s fashion director for nearly a decade. Prior to this work, she held similar positions at Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdale’s. Maguire has a keen sense of what’s trending in the handbag space and which brands are worth shopping from in this category.
Meet the Authors
Claire Sullivan was the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she wrote and edited fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stories. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. Sullivan contributed to the June 2024 update of this article on the best luxury shoulder bags.
Adam Mansuroglu was the Director of Commerce for Footwear News and WWD, where he oversaw strategy for both brands’ shopping content. Prior to this role, Mansuroglu was a fashion editor and stylist at Cosmopolitan Magazine, Style Editor at BestProducts.com, and Senior Style and Gear Editor at Men’s Health Magazine. Mansuroglu contributed to the October 2024 update of this article on the best designer shoulder bags with new product selections that reflected runway trends at the time.
Stacia Datskovska is a Senior Commerce Writer at WWD. Previously, she worked at ELLE DECOR as an assistant digital editor, covering all things luxury, culture, and lifestyle through a design lens. Her bylines over the past five years have appeared in USA Today, Baltimore Sun, Teen Vogue, Boston Globe, Food & Wine, and more. Prior to joining ELLE DECOR, Datskovska learned the ins and outs of e-commerce at Mashable, where she tested products, covered tentpole sales events, and curated gift guide roundups. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and international relations. Datskovska regularly reports on the trending accessories that are actually worth readers’ time and money.