How to Choose a Crossbody Bag for Work and Travel

The short answer: for work and travel, choose a crossbody bag with an adjustable strap, a secure closure (a zip or a flap), room for your phone, wallet and keys, and a neutral color that suits both a blazer and a weekend coat. Then check the dimensions against what you actually carry.

1. Start with what you carry

Empty your current bag and measure. A phone, card holder, keys and lipstick fit a compact bag about 20 cm wide. If you add sunglasses, a small notebook or a power bank, look at 30 cm or more. Every borsallèa product page lists width x depth x height in centimeters and inches.

2. Check the strap

An adjustable strap lets the bag sit at your hip over a shirt and still fit over a winter coat. A detachable strap gives you two bags in one: crossbody for the airport, top-handle for the meeting.

  • The Élodie has a top handle and an adjustable crossbody strap of about 120 to 125 cm, in two sizes (21 x 9 x 17 cm and 32 x 16 x 23 cm).
  • The Solène is a leather top-handle bag (33 x 11 x 19 cm) with a detachable crossbody strap.
  • The Léa is a mini bucket bag (19 x 14 x 19.5 cm) with a top handle and detachable crossbody strap.

3. Choose a secure closure for travel

On busy trains and in airports, a zip-top or flap closure keeps essentials in place. Open-top styles are better for the office than for crowds.

  • The Lune: pebbled leather crescent with a zip top and adjustable strap (30 x 11 x 20 cm).
  • The Selene: half-moon bag with a zip top and adjustable strap.
  • The Colette: compact flap bag with both a short shoulder strap and a long crossbody strap.

4. Pick a material that suits your routine

Smooth or pebbled leather and vegan leather wipe clean easily, which helps when you travel. Suede has a beautiful soft texture but should be kept away from rain. See our guide to suede, leather and vegan leather.

5. Go neutral, then add one color

Black, brown and gray go with tailoring and denim. If you already own a neutral, a color such as grape purple or red adds personality without making the bag harder to wear.

Quick checklist

  • Fits your phone, wallet and keys, with room to spare
  • Adjustable or detachable strap
  • Zip or flap closure for travel
  • Easy-care material
  • A color that works with both your work and weekend wardrobe

Browse more styles in Everyday Essentials and The Escape. Questions? See our FAQ or email hi@borsallea.com.

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