After a decade in New York as a Citi Bike rider, I was finally ready to buy a bike of my own this summer. Soon I was commuting to work meetings, doctor appointments, and the grocery store on my speedy little Trek. But as someone with a thing for handbags, I quickly realised I had a problem: Shoulder bags and my usual totes were constantly sliding down my arm as I pedalled along. I found myself digging deep into my closet to find a solution—and out I pulled a messenger bag.
It was a leather style I’d been toying with the idea of bringing back for a few years. Nostalgia-fuelled scrolls of Sienna Miller’s and Kirsten Dunst’s outfits from the early ’00s had sparked my interest in trying out the silhouette again, and my new bike proved the bag’s usefulness. And it’s not just me who’s revisiting the style: Bella Hadid has been spotted wearing her best leather messenger bag, and messenger bags were heavily featured in Coach’s Spring 2023 runway show.
Originally designed for use by couriers in need of easy access to the mail or packages stored inside, the best messenger bags sit like a crossbody and generally have a wide opening and practical pockets. “A simple single-strap bag allowed people to easily access the contents while on the move,” explains Chrome Industries product designer Stephen Willis. “The messenger bag’s utility has enabled it to be adopted by students to professionals—anyone needing a simple bag to be out all day with.” Over time, messenger bags have evolved, with the rise of technical brands honing in on the needs of bikers, and high-end designers offering luxe iterations.
“I think the overarching goal is the same,” Willis says of the messenger bag’s evolution. “Colour and material speak to people in different ways, but the need to carry our stuff is still there."
As someone who has a self-proclaimed “luxury bag problem,” I wanted to make sure that in reviewing the best messenger bags, I found a range of options—both technical and fashion-forward. Whatever needs you have (on the bike or off of it), you’ll find the best messenger bag for you from the edit below.
Related article: Go Hands-Free With These Stylish Crossbody And Messenger Bags
The Best Messenger Bags of 2023
Photo: Prada
DURABLE DESIGNER BAG
Prada Re-Nylon Bag
Prada’s nylon crossbody toes the line between a practical carryall and a stylish everyday bag. It’s small and sleek, with multiple zip pockets for tucking in everything from a Kind bar to accessories that allow you to transform your look from day to night.
Size: 9.5" H x 11.5" W x 3.5" D
Photo: Chrome
SMART DESIGN
Chrome Industries Citizen Messenger Bag
“Comfort is key,” says Willis. “Some may debate form over function, but I believe there is a happy medium.” Here, the balance starts with Chrome’s wide seatbelt strap and continues with its organized compartments for the everyday essentials.
“For myself, I like to organize ‘bags in bags’—really a large open landscape on the interior that allows me to adapt,” Willis adds.
Size: 13" H x 22" W x 7" D
What reviewers are saying: “The bag is extremely high quality, comfortable, and well designed. I would expect nothing less from Chrome. Large enough to carry anything from notebooks and laptops to food pickups. I’ve used it in the rain and the inside remained dry.”
Photo: Rains
RAINY-DAY GAME CHANGER
Rains Rolltop Messenger
Live somewhere where rain is often in the forecast? This waterproof rolltop bag will keep your laptop protected, even if you find yourself on the go mid-squall. The oversize silhouette means you can squeeze a change of clothes inside, too.
Size: 13.8" H x 16.5" W x 6.1" D
Photo: Rag & Bone
EVERYDAY STAPLE
Rag & Bone Small Field Messenger
A nod to military-inspired silhouettes, this leather messenger bag pairs structure with a touch of California cool. I love the idea of styling it with boho pieces like a cotton maxi skirt and military jacket.
Size: 6.25" H x 9" W x 3.5" D
What reviewers are saying: “Comfortable soft leather skin with the perfect size can hold a passport, wallet, makeup items, and phone. Yes, it is highly recommended!”
Photo: Louis Vuitton
FOR THE LOVE OF LOGOS
Louis Vuitton Archy Messenger MM
A designer twist on the practical messenger silhouette, Louis Vuitton’s bag is big enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, but still has a sleek profile (though I’d consider the monogram print more flashy). The adjustable strap means that you can wear it over your shoulder or slung crossbody, which is usually my go-to if I’m biking around town.
Size: 9.4" H x 13.8" L x 3.1" W
Photo: Nordstrom
TRIED AND TRUE
Timbuk2 Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
Timbuk2 specializes in durable bags designed for life on the go. (I first received one in high school as a gift from my then-boyfriend’s parents to celebrate my new job.) If you’re one to walk, bike, or take the train to work, having a sturdy carryall like this can make things that much easier.
Size: 9.75" H x 11.75" L x 4.5" D
What reviewers are saying: “Perfect for my Citi Bike! Well-engineered and lightweight!”
Photo: Coach
RETRO REIMAGINED
Coach Tabby Messenger
Inspired by an archival 1970s silhouette, this leather messenger bag is updated with an oversize logo buckle that makes it feel especially fresh. The smaller dimensions make it a practical everyday bag that still adds a retro touch to your look.
Size: 7.75" H x 10.25" W x 3" D
What reviewers are saying: “I am a top-handle bag type of lady, but this bag has changed my mind! It’s comfortable and the size is perfect.”
Photo: Tory Burch
CASUAL TRAVEL
Tory Burch Nylon Small Messenger Bag
This Tory Burch bag will be your plus-one on every summer trip. It has space for all the small essentials you’ll carry on the go, and it slides neatly under the seat in front of you on long flights.
Size: 7.1" H x 8.7" L x 3.9" D
What reviewers are saying: “I got it for a 10-day overseas trip. I prefer nylon for travel because I travel light. This bag fit all the essentials—passport, sunglasses, phone, small zip card wallet (umbrella as necessary)—and it fit in my backpack when I had to consolidate to go through TSA.”
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This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.