The 12 Best Designer Apple Watch Bands From Luxury Brands
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Updated May 3, 2024: This article on the best designer Apple Watch bands was updated with new editor product picks and trending brands. We are currently testing additional designer Apple Watch bands for consideration in this guide.
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Technology and fashion are in sync more than ever before — from high-style headphones to luxury crossbody phone bags. In everyday life, however, the most ubiquitous example of the merging worlds is the stylized way we accessorize the miniature computers on our wrists with the best designer Apple Watch bands.
Considering we take our Apple Watches from sweaty workouts to wedding receptions, it is understandable why we would want to spend a little extra on a more durable and stylish wrist accessory. Plus, a luxury Apple Watch band can coordinate seamlessly with our dressier office clothes and elevate the look of relaxed summer dresses. They can compliment your daily stack of silver and gold bracelets, woven friendship bracelets, or shine on their own as a smart statement piece. Whether you love layering your wrist candy or you’re in the market for a minimal way to to dress your handy step-counter, there’s a slew of options to upgrade your essential tech with high-fashion appeal.
The growing popularity of stylish, designer Apple Watch bands — which has racked up over 33 million searches and views on TikTok — has only pushed brands like Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and Coach to create numerous iterations of the style so that we can swap out the strap depending on our mood or what occasion entails. For example, a whimsical-printed silicone band may complete your activewear attire, whereas a gold-toned chain link bracelet would be better suited for a formal dress you’d wear to a wedding or graduation ceremony. Yet, you can never go wrong slipping on a sleek, classic leather band that will match a feminine blouse, silky slip dress, or practically anything else in your closet.
What’s more, designer Apple Watch bands often boast better craftsmanship and the use of higher-quality materials, meaning they’ll last longer and remain in good shape as they stay strapped to your wrist 24/7. Still, one size most certainly doesn’t fit all. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best designer Apple Watch band, like how often and where you’ll wear it and whether you seek any special features — think: water-resistant materials.
Whatever you desire, discover our edit of the best designer Apple Watch bands to shop right now.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Designer Apple Watch Bands of 2024
An Apple Watch band should be comfortable, protective, and ideally, add high-style value to any ensemble. That means it should seamlessly play into your fashion POV, whether you’re a minimalist who prefers smooth leather, or love edgy statements like bold hardware. Since there are so many designer Apple Watch band designs to choose from, WWD Shop editors narrowed down our top three, with options between different band materials, style preferences, and price points. Our Editor’s Choice picks reflect key criteria assessments, such as versatile design, durability, on-trend appeal, and daily function.
Lagos Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet: This one’s for the jewelry lovers. If your stack of arm candy leans toward chunky statements and reflective finishes, Lagos’ Watch Bracelet seamlessly elevates tradition analog links. Its resilient stainless steel design makes it ultra-durable, while a bauble-like frame adds visual intrigue to your wrist.
Tory Burch Braided Leather Apple Watch Band: This intricate yet versatile iteration of a leather watch band infuses unexpected texture to any outfit. Ideal for everyday wear, its warm brown tone looks sophisticated from the office to after-work happy hour — effortlessly pairs with your best Tory Burch handbag, of course.
Coach Apple Watch Strap: If you’re looking for something more playful to dress your tech, look to this adorable daisy-printed silicone rubber Apple Watch strap from Coach. Brand new for spring, it feels fresh and fun, while still fronting a versatile black and white colorway you can style with any colorful ensemble.
Top Designer Apple Watch Bands of 2024
Editor’s Choice: Lagos Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet
Editor’s Choice: Tory Burch Braided Leather Apple Watch Band
Editor’s Choice: Coach Apple Watch Strap
Michele Silicone Wrapped Stainless Steel Apple Watch Bracelet
Best Luxury: Hermès Tricot Single Tour Apple Watch Band
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Lagos Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet
Editor testing review rating: 5/5 rating
Materials: Stainless steel
Size compatibility: 38/45mm
Colorways: Silver, gold, rose gold, blue ceramic, pink ceramic, pink sapphire, and more
Special features: Double button wide clasp
$650
There’s luxury, and then there’s Lagos, whose trademark Caviar beads dazzle us every time. The designer crafts some of the best minimalist jewelry, and yet again, we’re drawn to the brand’s hypnotizing trademark design detail in durable stainless steel. The result is a refined, exceptionally gorgeous accessory you may be tempted to pass down as an heirloom to the next generation of Apple users. It’s noticeable but not too flashy, which are qualities we always seek in an investment piece.
What testers say: “I love the way this bracelet elevates the look of my Apple watch. It feels more like jewelry than other athletic bands Apple offers. Because its stainless steel, I can wear it when I swim to keep track of my workout! Love!”
Versatility: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Function: 5/5
Price at time of publish: $650
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Tory Burch Braided Leather Apple Watch Band
Editor testing review rating: 5/5 rating
Materials: Leather
Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
Colorways: Camello
Special features: Quick-release button for easy removal
$128
Whether she gives tweed suit sets micro hemlines or stitches cargo pants-style pockets on trim pairs of work trousers, Tory Burch has a prowess for turning classic, sophisticated women’s wear into contemporary fashion pieces, and this tasteful watchband is no exception. Similar to the brand’s highly sought-after ballet flats, the link bracelet has an understated elegance that infuses just enough textural intrigue to draw attention to your wrist, without stealing the conversation away from the rest of your outfit. Inspired by artisan basket-weaving and straw bags, this versatile band offers ‘quiet luxury’ appeal to any ensemble, so you can keep it clasped on at work in your best lace dress or while sipping champagne in a cocktail gown.
What testers say: “Love that this classic watch band goes with everything! You can dress it up or dress it down.”
Versatility: 5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Function: 5/5
Price at time of publish: $128
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Coach Apple Watch Strap
Editor testing review rating: 4.87/5 rating
Materials: Silicone rubber, stainless steel
Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
Colorways: Floral Print
Special features: Buckle closure
Coach Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
$85
Florals for your Apple Watch? Groundbreaking. We’re loving Coach’s daisy print collection this season that’s been featured from the brand’s tech accessories to the iconic Tabby Bag. It evokes ’90s, girlish-grunge in a modern feel, while still functioning as a versatile print that you can mix with other patters or wear compliment coordinating color schemes. The silicone rubber strap is naturally water-resistant, which bodes well for hot days or sweaty workouts, and is easily adjustable for securing a snug fit on your wrist.
What testers say: “I love the style of the band. It is flexible and easy to apply. I have a small wrist and the band fit me fine. Love the daisy print — perfect for spring and summer. I have received my compliments about the band. Very happy I purchased it.”
Versatility: 4.5/5 rating | Durability: 5/5 rating | Style: 5/5 rating | Function: 5/5
Price at time of publish: $85
Kate Spade New York Leather Apple Watch Band
Materials: Leather, stainless steel
Size compatibility: 38/40mm
Colorways: Vachetta/White, Black/White Dot, and Nude
Amazon’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
$69.99
There’s always something a bit mischievous about a Kate Spade design (we didn’t forget the coveted metro card clutch), so naturally, its Apple Watch bands emanate the same playful feel. This brand offers the bracelet in 10 funky colorways that ooze personality with their smatterings of citrus lemons and florals, cheeky animal-printed stripes, and a collection of playful polka dots. Even better, the leather band is lightweight and flexible, so it won’t dig into your wrists as you show off your new arm candy all day. Still, for all the fun we’re having choosing between the fanciful patterns, the slim, sleek silhouette keeps the overall look polished.
What testers say: “I love this band. It looks very professional and matches everything! It took a little bit for the leather to get worn in, but once it did, it was perfect!
Price at time of publish: $69.99
Ted Baker Shimmer Gold Mesh 20mm Apple Watch Watchband
Materials: Stainless steel and gold tone plate
Size compatibility: 38/40mm
Colorways: Gold
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$65.70 $69.48 5% off
Done right, an elegant mesh moment can be your ticket to the understated, quiet luxury appeal fashion aficionados laud over and celebrities like Jane Fonda and Kate Moss so effortlessly embody. And, make no mistake, Ted Baker sticks the landing. The design even features a delicate row of crystal embellishments that frame either edge of your Apple Watch to set it leaps and bounds above a simple solid-colored band. Simply put, the watch just looks lavish and we can see it accessorizing an evening gown better than some of our favorite chunky earrings.
Price at time of publish: $65.70
Olivia Burton<strong> </strong>Celestial Leather Apple Watch Band
Materials: Leather, goldtone plate, and crystal
Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
Colorways: Blush
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$93.75 $125 25% off
We hitched our wagon to a star (or should we say a couple of them) when picking this watch as one of our favorite Apple Watch bands. The elegant addition of celestial charms is definitely recognizable, but you won’t be hard-pressed to find something to wear the watch with as the band is subtle enough to keep from appearing overly ostentatious. Additionally, the band is thin and comes in two neutral-toned colorways, which, for an embellished option, helps keep the overall look super versatile. Sure, these features are a wonderful way to dress up your jeans and sneakers, but this band can also go with dressy attire, too.
What testers say: “This watch band is just gorgeous!! Simple and elegant. Love, love, love!!”
Price at time of publish: $93.75
Missoni Fabric Zigzag Apple Watch Band/24MM
Materials: Textile
Size compatibility: 44mm and 45mm
Colorways: Multi
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$150
Deviating from a sea of neutral-toned colorways, the Missoni Apple Watch band features punchy orange and purple hues that jump off the accessory in an appealing chevron pattern. The multi-dimensional effect is the luxury Italian brand’s calling card and nods to its busy graphic-printed dresses and abstract knitwear. Upon further examination, we can confirm its use of mixed materials — woven canvas, and smooth calf-skin leather — solidifies this as a pick for anyone who enjoys adding an inkling of whimsy to their outfits. But, it sticks with tradition in some ways, by opting for an Ardillon buckle, a common and convenient clasp among most watch bands, that fits into nine notch options and gives you plenty of wiggle room for fitting it to your wrist.
Price at time of publish: $150
Shinola Black Alligator Apple Watch Band
Materials: Leather
Size compatibility: 38/40mm and 42/44mm
Colorways: Black
Special features: Leather cut and sewn in the U.S.
$225
The exemplary craftsmanship that embodies any Shinola product distinguishes this pick from a sea of black bands offered by other retailers. And, we can confirm its products are worth the investment —these high-quality leather goods have a long life ahead of them. The brand is regarded for only using the best materials that age gracefully and soften beautifully over time, instead of pilling or scuffing along the way. Additionally, between the timeless look of crocodile leather and its slim silhouette, you can match the band to any occasion or outfit, and it’ll never look out of place. The stainless steel buckle is another bonus, as the universal finish blends discreetly with whatever accessories you pair beside it.
Price at time of publish: $225
Michele Silicone Wrapped Stainless Steel Apple Watch Bracelet
Materials: Silicone-wrapped
Size compatibility: 38/40/41/ and 42/44/45/49mm
Colorways: Fog
Special features: Interchangeable connector
Neiman Marcus Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
$295
$295
Planning to wear your watch while you work, exercise, and run errands? It’s best to opt for a material like silicone that will flex with your movements. Still, designer watchmaker Michele ensures there’s plenty of fashion incorporated into this functional watch. The brand offers the strap in soft, dreamy colorways like lilac and a dusky rose and intermixes the silicone material with feminine rose gold metal. Plus, if you find it growing too tight or feeling too loose throughout the day, you can easily adjust its size withthe interchangeable connector. We’re also fond of the fact that its silicone overlays sturdy hardware underneath, so while the soft material won’t cause any discomfort, it still has a durable base that’s less likely to become damaged.
What testers say: “Love it! I have always wanted a Michele Watch, but since I mainly wear my Apple Watch I have never purchased one. This is the best of both worlds. I get comments ALL the time. Not to mention it goes well with my skin tone!!”
Price at time of publish: $295
Abas Alligator Apple Watch Band
Materials: Alligator and calf leather
Size compatibility: 42/44/ 45/49mm
Colorways: Forest, Chocolate, Western Tan, English Tan, Red, + more
Special features: Sustainably sourced leather from the Southeastern United States
Neiman Marcus Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$250
$250
If endless outfit versatility and a comfortable fit are your primary M.O. when shopping for an Apple Watch band, you can’t go wrong with choosing leather one. Abas is the best choice for a designer leather Apple Watch band because it takes sustainable steps in its sourcing of materials. Per the brand, it only harvests leather from the company-owned tannery in Florida and other ones across the Southeastern United States. What’s more, you’re not limited to choosing from a narrow number of neutral shades, as Abas designs the product in 14 colors ranging from a vibrant hot pink and bright yellow to a rich forest green and burnt orange. We like how the band adjusts similarly to a belt and clasps with a thorn buckle to make slipping it on and off a breeze.
Price at time of publish: $250
Nomad Aluminum Apple Watch Band
Materials: Anodized aluminum
Size compatibility: 49mm, 45mm, 44mm, and 42mm
Colorways: Silver, Space Gray
Special features: DLC scratch-resistant coating, magnetic closure
Nomad Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 4.5/5
$200
Otherworldly metallic shades infiltrated fall 2023 and spring 2024 fashion weeks, from dangling earrings down to shiny shoes and silver handbags, but if you’re not ready to drip head-to-toe in the reflective finish, consider this watch as an introductory midpoint into the trend. The style is futuristic in more than just its aesthetic: It’s made with super lightweight anodized aluminum, is water-resistant, and features a scratch-proof coating. However, one of our favorite aspects of its design is the two discreet buttons you press to unclasp the watch from its magnetic closure, meaning you can take it on and off without assistance. Its use of integrated lugs creates a cohesive design that gives the watch the sleek look of one continuous, mesmerizing loop.
What testers say: “Silver is stunning. It is lightweight, yet sturdy construction.”
Price at time of publish: $200
BEST LUXURY DESIGNER APPLE WATCH BAND
Hermès Tricot Single Tour Apple Watch Band
Materials: Polyamide yarn
Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
Colorways: Orange, Jaune de Naples, Bleu Jean, and Beige de Weimar
Special features: Matches with any stainless steel Apple Watch case (Series 9 or previous versions)
Top Quality Star Badge on Google: /5 stars
$349
Each iconic in their respective industries, it only seems natural that Apple would partner with Hermès to make designer Apple Watch bands. The latest iteration of their collaborative designs includes a Tricot Apple Watch bracelet available in several heritage-inspired colorways, including the instantly recognizable signature Hermès orange shade. The design was patterned on 1930s-era Hermès driving, sailing, and golf gloves, offering an ‘old money’ aesthetic to frame your everyday tech.
Price at time of publish: $349
What to Look for In a Designer Apple Watch Band
Price: Considering your Apple Watch is likely a mainstay in your everyday wear, spending a little extra on a band made with high-quality materials is worth the investment. Designer Apple Watch bands start around $150 and can range to over $1,000. However, some designer brands like Kate Spade and Coach still tout the brand name label and similar materials as higher-priced options but at lower price points, starting around $75.
Materials: Presumably, you’re shopping for a designer Apple Watch band because you’re seeking something ready to withstand years of wear, in which case we suggest materials like leather that only looks better as it ages. However, silicone can be a great solution if you wear your watch during workouts because it can handle sweat, is easy to wipe clean, and feels super comfortable on the wrist. On the other hand, metal and stainless steel options may look the most luxe out of all the materials. However, we suggest you double-check that you’re purchasing a watch with a protective coating, like PVD plating, since this finish can tend to show scratches and scuffs.
Size: To pick the right size of your Apple Watch band, start by cross-referencing the size of the watch band you’re purchasing to the compatible size of your Apple Watch. Apple Watch bands come in various widths typically ranging from 38mm to 45mm, so checking the key specs of whichever band you choose to ensure it fits the tech is key. Additionally, you’ll want to look for adjustable features like removable links or notch holes that will be easy to adjust to the size of your wrist. Another sizing factor you may want to consider is the width of the band. For example, a band that’s too thick for your wrist could look heavy and bulky.
How We Selected the Best Designer Apple Watch Bands
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 compile this list of the best designer Apple Watch bands, we conducted hours of research to discover the most popular designer Apple Watch Bands for 2024. Then, we narrowed it down to our top favorites based on customer reviews and editor’s picks. We also considered other factors like the quality of materials used and special features like whether the watch was water resistant or used sustainable manufacturing practices. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Author
Irene Richardson is a Brooklyn-based writer who covers fashion and beauty for brands such as InStyle, Byrdie, Brides, Travel + Leisure, and Footwear News. Whether she’s going for a run or out to dinner, she never leaves the house without accessorizing first and wouldn’t be caught in public without a pair of earrings or, at the very least, a simple stack of bracelets. In her spare time, Irene keeps up with jewelry trends, including the best designer Apple Watch bands, to understand which designs are most popular among celebrities and streetwear alike.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. Cigliano updated this shopping guide in April, 2024, with new releases and editor’s choice Apple watch bands to style for spring and summer.
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