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The popularity of quilted crossbody bags remains strong and enduring. Luxury brands like Gucci and Dior offer luxurious versions of these bags, while more affordable options can be found at COS. Personally, I have a vivid memory of the first time I ran my hand over a Chanel bag with its iconic diamond stitching.
According to Karin Gustafsson, design director at COS, quilting is a technique commonly used in outerwear and other garments that has naturally transitioned into accessories. Through their design processes, COS utilizes this craft to experiment with the shape and volume of a classic bag. While quilting doesn’t determine the bag’s puffiness, it adds depth and texture that can make even a simple black rectangular bag feel fresh and exciting.
As someone who frequently commutes on the New York subway, a functional crossbody bag is essential. However, the addition of quilting patterns and other fun details inspire me to invest in something new. If you’re looking for recommendations, I have compiled a list of my current top fifteen favorite quilted crossbody bags, including the popular COS bag.
BEST VELVET QUILTED BAG
$3,590 AT GUCCICREDIT: GUCCI
For winter, I’m all for embracing textures like tweed and velvet in addition to the usual leather and suede. This quilted bag from Gucci is one I’d break out for special occasions like all the holiday parties coming up.
Size: 8.5″W x 5″H x 2.5″D
Material: Velvet
Color: Green
BEST EVERYDAY QUILTED CROSSBODY BAG
Tory Burch is my go-to for classic pieces with a preppy twist. This chevron-quilted crossbody bag is simple, elegant, and perfect for everyday dressing.
Size: 9.8″W x 5.9″H x 3.3″D
Material: Leather
Color: Black
BEST WEATHER-FRIENDLY BAG
There are a few things I love about this unusual quilted bag from Lemaire. Firstly, it’s made of nylon, which means that it’s water-repellant (and as such, winter weather friendly!). And second, the soft U-shape and adjustable strap allow it to be worn tucked under the shoulder or across the body.
Size: 16″W x 10″H x 4.5″D
Material: Nylon
Color: Green
BEST SMALL CROSSBODY BAG
$1,175 AT SSENSECREDIT: SSENSE
If I had to settle on one bag style that I wear the most when I leave the house, it’s a small crossbody, designed to hold just the essentials like my wallet, keys, and lip gloss. This Off-White bag is the perfect shape and size.
Size: 6.5″W x 4.5″H x 2.75″D
Material: Leather
Color: White
BEST QUILTED CROSSBODY TOTE
$108 AT LULULEMONCREDIT: LULULEMON
Instead of the usual materials and shape expected for a quilted bag, Lululemon’s casual take has a teddy bear texture and a mini tote silhouette. The removable strap makes it easy to wear this purse however you want.
Size: 8.6″W x 8.6″H x 5.7″D
Material: 100% Polyester
Color: Caramel
BEST EVENING QUILTED BAG
$1,290 AT BURBERRYCREDIT: BURBERRY
For dressy occasions, a clutch with a thin crossbody chain is the perfect convertible style to keep close at hand. Burberry’s bright white design will go with every outfit.
Size: 7.9″W x 4.7″H x 1.9″D
Material: Leather
Color: White
BEST QUILTED OVERSIZED BAG
$99 AT COS.COMCREDIT: COS
Throw all of your essentials into this cool carryall, an alternative to your usual canvas tote. “We drew inspiration from contrasting textures and shapes when creating the COS Quilted Bag,” says Gustafsson.
Size: 15.59″W x 15.82″H x 8.66″D
Material: 100% Recycled polyester
Color: Black
Strathberry, a Scottish luxury brand, aims to establish itself as the premier luxury brand in Scotland, regardless of its customer base. The brand’s co-founders, Guy and Leeanne Hundleby, lead a small design group that meets every Wednesday morning at their Edinburgh headquarters. The headquarters is located in a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the meetings involve discussions on colors, samples, and new concepts. These meetings are highly anticipated, making Wednesdays the best day of the week for the team. Strathberry’s journey began with a top-handle tote bag inspired by a vintage music case. The design evolved into smaller versions and a backpack, representing a concept of “quiet luxury.” The bags were both aesthetically pleasing and functional, crafted by skilled artisans in Spanish workshops shared with renowned luxury brands.
Strathberry gained significant attention and success when Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, started carrying their bags during her public appearances. This royal endorsement brought media attention and boosted sales. Other members of the British royal family, including Kate Middleton and Princess Eugenie, have also been spotted with Strathberry bags, further enhancing the brand’s prestige. Despite Edinburgh not being recognized as a fashion capital, the co-founders appreciate the freedom to pursue originality and interesting designs. With ten years of experience, Strathberry aims to expand its marketing efforts by highlighting the stories of its artisan partners in Spain and emphasizing its Scottish heritage. The brand intends to maintain a steady and gradual expansion while remaining focused on creating beautiful and practical accessories that resonate with customers.
Strathberry’s top-handle totes are popular in the United States, their largest market. Over the next decade, the brand plans to diversify its product offerings while staying true to its unique appeal. Strathberry envisions attracting new customers by captivating them with its ambiance and exquisite bags rather than relying solely on celebrity endorsements. The brand’s goal is to create a sense of enchantment that draws customers into its world, where they can appreciate the atmosphere and craftsmanship of its products.