YOU'VE FOUND THE PERFECT CROSSBODY BAG, BUT HOW DO YOU STYLE IT TO GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR PURCHASE? LET'S TALK FEATURE STRAPS + STYLING OPTIONS THAT HELP YOU CHANGE YOUR LOOK TO MATCH YOUR MOOD.

You've decided on the perfect crossbody receptacle for you + it's made a home in your wardrobe. Now comes the fun part - experimenting with how to wear it, what outfits to pair it with, and how you can get the most out of it. Crossbody bags are endlessly versatile, so there's lots of styling options for you to try.

We always recommend rotating your bags to extend their lifespan + keep them looking their best. Like shoes + clothing, bags should be rotated, as a handbag that is used every day for every occasion will inevitably have a shorter lifespan than one that is alternated with other receptacles.  

At the same time, it makes sense to get the most out of every bag you own, and make it work for casual, dressy, work + play.  Changing up how you style your bag can give you the most versatile options.

HOW TO WEAR A CROSSBODY BAG

We love to wear a crossbody bag high on the body for a distinctly fashion mood. For a utilitarian-styled piece like the Bright Spark or Petite Smuggler, this means wearing it high across the front of the torso, while we style the Reader Satchel or Bandolier at waist level or higher.  

If you find wearing high feels too restrictive or uncomfortable across your bust, wear your crossbody bag lower on the hip and it will allow super easy access to the contents of your bag while you're on the go.

There's also the option of wearing it as a traditional shoulder bag - it's a more formal option that's ideal for a dressier occasion - or even around the waist as a belt bag for a more casual look.

Check out @styledbysally's guide to styling crossbody bags, where stylist Sally MacKinnon talks through how the eye is drawn to various points depending on how you wear a crossbody bag. Sally has lots of great tips if you're not sure of the best way to style your crossbody.

Ideally, your chosen bag will have an adjustable strap so you can experiment with all these looks + your crossbody bag can do multiple jobs in your wardrobe. Shorten the strap for an evening look on the shoulder, lengthen a little for crossbody, or wrap it around your waist for an updated bum bag. That crossbody bag is working hard now.

HOW TO STYLE A FEATURE STRAP

For even more versatility, you can add a feature bag strap to introduce a completely new mood. A feature strap offers a distinctly different style to the strap included with your bag, and allows you to style day, night, casual or formal looks with your bag of choice. The same bag will look different depending on how you wear it + what strap you pair it with, so your accessories options are multiplied.

Go for a webbing strap in classic black, or introduce a subtle hint of colour with a strap in a shade that will go with most of your wardrobe staples. 

Consider if you prefer a thick or thin strap, and if you prefer the hardware colour to perfectly match your bag - we're quite fond of a hardware clash, but many people like to stick strictly to gold, silver or gunmetal + have everything match. 

BLACK WEBBING STRAP

 

SLIMLINE BROWN WEBBING STRAP

 

BLACK + WHITE STRIPED STRAP

 

GREEN + WHITE STRIPED STRAP

 

SANS BEAST BAG STRAPS

The original signature Sans Beast Barricade bag strap is, we're pleased to say, recognisable from afar as the mark of a cruelty free lover. It brings an athleisure vibe that dresses down a more polished look or elevates a casual one. 

For an alternative webbing option, choose the Corridor Strap or Highway Strap to introduce some classic stripes or colour to your outfit. You can opt for a more slimline webbing version with the Laneway Strap if a wide strap feels too bulky or restrictive. 

While a webbing strap can bring a more casual feel, consider a chain strap for a dressier, elegant option. It works like jewellery as a finishing touch for your outfit. The Elemental + Illuminated Chain straps both bring a glamorous spirit.

There are lots of options to styling your favourite crossbody bag, whether on it's own or with a feature strap. Try different options to find your preferred style + wear your beloved receptacle in different ways to match your mood.

And don't forget you can receive 10% off when you pair any full price bag + strap in one transaction.

Enjoy 🖤

Studio Sans Beast