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Why Crossbody Bags Are Everywhere (and the One I Picked for Mom Life)

  • 4 days ago
  • 5 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

I love a bag that does the most. I’ve been loving my leather diaper bag while I have a two year old and my infant. Now that my baby is around 6 months and breast feeding feels more natural and I’m not pumping but trusting my body — I’m packing way less in my bag these days. It’s also spring and I’m thinking a leather bag isn’t always the best option for my summer adventures that’s going to include the pool and the beach. ENTER THE CROSS BODY BAG.


Why Crossbody Bags Are Having a Moment

Cross body bags have become the go-to accessory for people who want style without sacrificing function. They're hands-free, practical, and surprisingly versatile—whether you're running errands, traveling, or just want to keep your essentials close without the bulk of a tote.


And when it comes to cross body bags, Baggu has become something of a cult favorite. Known for their crinkle nylon designs, minimalist aesthetic, and eco-friendly ethos, Baggu bags are everywhere. But are they worth the hype? And what if you love the look but want something different—or more affordable?


Let's break it down.


What Makes Baggu So Popular?

Baggu started as a reusable shopping bag brand and has since expanded into a full lifestyle line. Their cross body bags—especially the crescent and puffy styles—are loved for:

  • Lightweight nylon material: Easy to clean, water-resistant, and packable

  • Minimalist design: Simple, unbranded, and goes with everything

  • Sustainability: Made from recycled nylon and designed to last

  • Affordable-ish pricing: Not luxury, but not fast fashion either (usually $50–$80)

The downside? Some people feel the quality doesn't match the price. The zippers can be finicky, the straps aren't always adjustable, and the bags can look a little "crinkly" over time.


Baggu-Style Alternatives That Are Just as Good (or Better)

💰 1. Budget-friendly dupes

If you love the crescent bag look but don't want to spend $70+, there are solid alternatives:

These give you that crescent/nylon look for way less. Quality varies, but honestly a lot of people feel Baggu is overpriced anyway.

👉 Best if: you like the style, not the brand name

🌿 2. Same sustainability + minimalist vibe

👉 Best if: you care about sustainability and want something that feels a bit more polished

👜 3. If you want an upgrade

  • MZ Wallace → Quilted nylon, lightweight, beloved by frequent travelers

  • Longchamp Le Pliage → Classic, foldable, timeless

  • Cuyana → Leather options, minimal branding, investment-worthy

👉 Best if: you want something that will last years and feel elevated


How to Choose the Right Crossbody Bag for You

Not all cross body bags are created equal. Here's what to consider:

  • Size: Do you need it for just your phone and wallet, or also a water bottle and sunglasses?

  • Material: Nylon is lightweight and easy to clean. Leather is more polished but heavier.

  • Strap adjustability: Make sure it sits where you want it—some straps are fixed length.

  • Pockets: Do you like everything in one compartment, or do you need organization?

  • Style: Are you going for sporty, sleek, or boho?

Crossbody and Crescent Bags I found + What I Love About them

I went on a deep die for a few months trying to find the crossbody or crescent bag i wanted to use for my summer travels and adventures this year. My friend had suggested Baggu and like you can deduct from above, I did not feel like the bag was what I needed right now. I needed structure, versatile, and at a price point I could fit in the budget. I kept going back and forth to wanting a belt bag or a crescent bag look. I also couldn’t decide if I wanted a large purse that fit all the things right now or if I needed something smaller that only fit a diaper, my keys and a phone… Below are some other options I found that came close to what I was looking for as a mom of two who needed a bag that could do all the things.



What I decided I needed:


  1. Something that was going to be water resistant and not leather like what I have been using year round.

  2. A bag that also held a water bottle or a sippy cup. This has been my downfall lately. I have my hands full and it’s because I have no way to bring in my water bottle.

  3. Multiple ways to wear. I knew I needed something that could either do a cross body, a shoulder strap or a backpack situation. I didn’t feel like I NEEDED a backpack but knew it would be nice to have options.

  4. Inside pockets for help with organizing. My bag right now has pockets and side pouches and it was been so nice. I really have liked the help with organizing.

  5. A color I would wear. I love pink but I haven’t had a pink bag in awhile so I was leaning towards a brown or maple that gave me more of a leather vibe that I love.



What I found


  • Strap can come off so you could pair this with your baby carrier or put it inside another bag

  • Does not have a water bottle holder

  • color options I love maple + pink


  • good colors

  • might not fit kindle

  • water bottle holder

  • pink + maple



  • lots of pockets

  • Cute colors

  • Different strap sizes

  • Doesn’t hold a water bottle


  • Only a pink color that I like

  • Holds a water bottle inside and outside

  • laptop section

  • adjustable strap that creates a small look



Final Thoughts

I went with the Crescent Catchall in Atlas Pink by Beis. I kept watching the videos and realized that it had everything I really needed. It even had space for a laptop which I know will come in handle when I do my weekly admin days at a coffee shop. I also loved the many pockets and structure the bag comes with. I know I am also going to be thankful that I can create a smaller version of the bag just by adjusting the strap. It will be nice for when I am just going out to the city on a date with John. I love the look of the crescent crossbody bags and I think we can thank the baggu trend for this. Let me know what you think and how you’ve been making purse decisions.



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