Crossbody sling bags are still everywhere, and a wave of new designs has arrived to challenge Uniqlo's Round Mini Shoulder Bag, which launched in spring 2022 and has dominated high streets since. Rivals are now using alternative fabrics, decorative details and practical functions to elevate the humble sling bag.
Why the sling bag remains a staple
The appeal is easy to understand. The bags look small but open up to reveal a surprisingly spacious interior. They have been used as beach bags and for overnight trips, and the original sold for under £15, giving it mass appeal across price points.
While Uniqlo has kept its design evolving with new colourways, patterns and limited edition drops, other retailers have noticed the crossbody style is not going anywhere. Fresh designs now meet the demand, offering options for venue requirements, hands-free city running, or roomy day-trip bags.
The best new sling bags to shop
Kate Spade Duo Pebbled Leather Crossbody – £145. Available in five leather shades with a detachable coin purse charm, this premium bag can be styled four ways: crossbody, on the shoulder, as a belt bag, or as a clutch with the handle removed. Gold hardware on the Misty Mint hue adds a luxe touch.
Elizabeth Scarlett Sun Goddess Canvas Crossbody Sling Bag – £60. This design features the brand's signature embroidery, with golden suns stitched onto a coral base. The wide, adjustable strap can be detached to use the bag as a clutch. Internal pockets are zipped, and there is a key clip and a back pocket.
AllSaints Luna Micro Snake Bag – £113 (was £169). Currently 30% off, this sleek leather bag with cotton lining features imitation snake scaling instead of leopard print. The slouchy silhouette fits a card wallet, headphones, keys and lip gloss.
M&S Oversized Stormwear™ Cross Body Bag – £22. Made from M&S Stormwear fabric, a lightweight textile designed to withstand the elements, this bag keeps contents dry in sun, wind and rain. It also offers a capacious interior, zip fastening and a chunky strap.
G4Free Sling Bag RFID Chest Bag Crossbody – £9.99. This practical design has three pockets, water-resistant fabric, and a generous main interior with a smaller detachable pouch for essentials. The strap extends to 33.5 inches, and the front pocket hides RFID blocking tech to protect credit cards from digital theft.
Free People Quilted Baby Carryall Sling Bag – £58. With enough padding to create a pillow in a pinch, this is ideal for long road or rail trips. Bungee cords on the zips make them easy to find, though the strap is not adjustable.
ASOS DESIGN Nylon Ruched Adjustable Crossbody Shoulder Bag in Buttermilk – £20. This nylon bag features ruffles on the strap and tie-details, making it a fun choice for shopping trips, brunch and coffee dates.
Antler Icon Slingbag in Sand – £44. From luggage brand Antler, this hands-free design fits six litres and is crafted from recycled, water-resistant textiles. It includes multiple pockets for organisation and comes in four shades.
Joules Jade Green Half Moon Adjustable Cross-Body Bag – £39. Customers have praised the racing green shade, which comes with a contrast strap. This half-moon bag has a zip fastening and is also available in black, blue, pink and red.
