Giddy Up–I Mean Hurry Up and Snag These Saddlebags
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Picking out handbags is a fine art and while I'm not the ultimate curator, I know a good bag when I see one. I typically go for totes, crossbody bags, bucket styles, frame styles, and the chic lil ones with a flap. Coach has many of my faves—my mom had this forest-green leather one that she passed down to me when I was a teen and I'm still obsessed with it to this day. (Hello, vintage.) One thing I don't own many of though are saddlebags. Okay, TBH: I probably just have one.
Wondering what the heck a saddlebag is? Got you. If you're getting a visual of a weathered, brown leather bag associated with cowboys, you're on the right track. Saddlebags are Western-inspired purses that used to actually be strapped to the saddle of a horse...but now, they're a classic and functional go-to fashion accessory. Sometimes uniquely-shaped, you'll find that they often have a flap feature, buckles, crossbody strap, and an arched body made of leather or suede material in the color of tan, cream, brown, and black. However you'll also find fun variations of the style in pretty hues and even funkier designs. I've got the best of both worlds comin' right up.
Our top picks for the best saddlebags in 2023:
Functional fashion always wins me over and when it comes to bags as cute as these, I'm sure it will be the same for you too. Discover more about the trendiest bags of 2023 and ofc, intentionally shop Black-owned handbags alwaysss.
AFKOMST Crossbody Bag
This vegan leather bag comes in so many pretty colors, you're gonna have to play "eeny, meeny, miny, mo" in order to choose.
PURFANREE Trendy Saddle Shoulder Bag
Trick people into thinking this Amazon bag is designer. It's that good!
MANGO Flap Chain Bag
The chain strap and gold hardware makes this one an easy choice for dressier occasions.
Aaks Online Tia Blush
It's giving quality! Tan and navy never looked so good.
ALYSSA Double Compartment Large Two-Tone Colorblock Flapover Crossbody Bag
Need a bag for all the things? Look no further.
Yvonne Koné Annika Leather Crossbody Bag
Remember the stunning green bag my mom passed down to me? It sorta looked like this. Love this vintage vibe!
Vince Camuto Menio Small Crossbody Bag
Get a lil one with a color that's loud as ever like this sunset-orange hue.
Frye Melissa Woven Saddle Bag
Wait how cute is this one? The weaving is so detailed and we're loving the fringe.
Portland Leather Goods Circle Crossbody
This circular cutie has somethin' like a cult following. See for yourself!
Rave Review: "The color is beautiful and the bag is so unique. I get so many compliments on it. This bag has turned me into a PLG addict and now I want this color in every style!"
Yvonne Koné Little Annika Leather Crossbody Bag
Terracotta just looks so good on bags and really adds to the timelessness of this purse by Black-owned brand, Yvonne Koné.
Marc Jacobs The Small Saddle Bag
Calling all trendsetters: you need this gorge Marc Jacobs bag in your life ASAP.
See By Chloe Hana Mini Saddle Bag
Mini is def having its moment and we're not mad at it—especially when it looks like this!
Zara Quilted Crossbody Bag
Lowkey, this Zara bag looks like it can double as a pillow. PS: The strap is removable and the bag is magnetic.
ASHYA Bolo Crossbody Bag in Verde at Nordstrom
Talk about modern: This vertical shaped bb in an earthy-toned hue is changing the game for sure.
Kate Spade Leila Mini Flap Crossbody
With over 1,000 positive reviews, it's safe to say that this pink Kate Spade crossbody is not only pretty, but iconic.
GANNI Banner Nano Saddle
Edgy babes, we've found your match. This inky-black GANNI bag is hardcore in every way.
Polene Paris Numéro Dix Monochrome Green Bag
Alright—HOW COOL IS THIS ONE IN THE SHAPE OF A HALF-MOON?! (And no, I will not apologize for the caps!) It's textured leather, comes in several luxe colors, and can be worn as a shoulder bag, across the body, and as a clutch.
The Drop Women's Helen Saddle Crossbody Bag
Rave Review: "I really love this purse. I bought several other crossbody straps on Amazon because the one that comes with it wasn’t that great. It’s small with a strong magnetic clasp. Perfect for when you only want to carry a few things!"
Fossil Harwell Micro Flap Crossbody
Okay, you can't fit much in this one but its gorgeousness makes up for it. I mean, just look at the vivid green and that larger-than-life buckle!
Ted Baker Darcell Branded Webbing Satchel Cross Body Bag
Ted Baker got really creative with the colorway offerings so if you're not into neutrals or wanna go outside of the box, go for the lime green or purple!
Gigi New York Jenni Saddle Bag
Now, this is a saddlebag I would add to cart immediately. It's the perf size, the taupe color is so refreshing, and the tassel is adorbs.
Fossil Harper Leather Crossbody
Rave Review: "I was searching for a quality, genuine leather crossbody and this was perfect. In person, it's even more beautiful. The hardware is very high quality, and I really love the magnetic latch on the front flap. The size is perfect to hold what you need, without lugging a huge bag. The quality of the leather is top shelf. Timeless, classic bag. Can dress up or down. I love this bag."
Mango Buckle Leather Bag
This is the sort of purse I envision when I think of saddlebags. If you're into classic feels, go for it!
Madewell The Transport Saddlebag
Oh, hello, bag perfect for traveling and long days.
Rave Review: "This bag is the perfect size for everyday use and the leather is so soft. I love the thicker cotton strap—it's very comfortable. My dog put a few scratches in but I applied some mink oil paste all over and the scratches are gone! The color got a little darker (which I like). I bought the black as well!"
Why trust Cosmo:
Cosmo’s team of digital fashion experts—which includes Fashion Features Director Rachel Torgerson and Fashion Editor Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien—have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes pieces for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!
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