A Love Letter to Sling Bags (From a Woman Who Swore She’d Never)
I used to be a tote girl. You know, the kind who thought “If it doesn’t fit a small laptop, a water bottle, three snacks, and existential dread, what’s the point?” But one sweltering Utah afternoon—picture 100 degrees, melting mascara, and a shoulder ache from lugging my life around—I gave in and slung a crossbody over my chest. Just once. Just to “try it.” And I’ve never looked back.
🎒 Okay, So What Exactly *Is* a Sling Bag?
Sling bags go by many names: bum bags, belt bags, chest bags, moon bags (hi, TikTok). They’re compact bags worn across your torso or back, often with an adjustable strap so you can wear them high, low, or slung wherever your vibe takes you.
They’re the spiritual successor to the 90s fanny pack, but now they’re sleek, stylish, and designer-approved. Coach, Lululemon, AllSaints, and even Fossil are in on the game. It’s not just a trend—it’s a movement.
🙋♀️ Why I Resisted for So Long
I had rules, okay? Rules like:
- Never wear a bag that doesn’t match my shoes
- Crossbodies are only for errands
- Fanny packs are for dads at Disney
But rules are made to be broken, especially when your back starts screaming for mercy and your oversized tote knocks over a toddler in Trader Joe’s.
The sling bag was freedom. It was light. It hugged me. It understood me. Suddenly, I could reach for my phone without doing yoga. My shoulders didn’t ache. I was walking taller (and sassier, let’s be honest).
✨ Why Sling Bags Are the Unexpected MVP
1. They free your hands. Grocery shopping, chasing kids, spontaneous dance-offs—sling bags don’t get in the way.
2. They hold just enough. Phone, keys, lip balm, cards, a snack. What else do you really need?
3. They don’t swing like traditional crossbodies. Especially when worn across the chest—less bounce, more balance.
4. They make you feel cool. Even when you’re in leggings and a messy bun. Especially then, actually.
👜 What to Look for in a Good One
Not all sling bags are created equal. If you're ready to convert, look for:
- Adjustable straps (a must for comfort)
- Exterior zip pocket for easy access
- High-quality hardware that won’t peel or stick
- Material that suits your lifestyle—nylon for sporty, leather for elevated, canvas for casual
Bonus points: signature details, branded zippers, and fun linings. Because you deserve joy inside and out.
📦 My Current Favorite? A Preloved Coach Sling
I found mine in a drop on KismetMags.com. It was love at first unzip. Glovetanned leather, just broken in enough to feel like it had stories. It was retail quality, not outlet. The kind of bag someone probably debated parting with five times before trading it in. (Respect.)
Thanks to our Purse Pass, I could’ve tried it out and traded it later—but I didn’t. I kept it. I wear it nearly every day. It’s my errand bag, my date night bag, my travel MVP.
💌 To Sling Bags, With Love
I’m sorry I judged you. I’m sorry I called you touristy. I’m sorry I thought I needed more bag to be more put together. Turns out, less really is more—especially when it comes to weight, stress, and overstuffed compartments.
If you’re sling-curious, just try one. Trust me. Your shoulders (and soul) will thank you.