Are Designer Brands Adopting the Oversized Crossbody Bags Trend?

I love Crossbody bags. For me, they're the perfect hands-free accessory when I want to put on my “I’m-casual-but-still-chic” mood. I also love oversized bags– because honestly, life requires stuff. Phone. Wallet. Keys. Makeup. Maybe a water bottle on the go. But merge the two? Oversized Crossbody bags? I've been staring at my bag closet and wondering: Could this be the next great fashion trend or an idea that may flop as soon as it arrives? 

As someone who obsesses over fashion and trends, I'm pretty torn. So let's settle this: Are oversized Crossbody bags genius or a hard pass? (I'm leaning towards genius, but I need backup)

Is There A Chance We'll See Oversized Crossbody Bags on the Runway Soon?

I think I need to be clear here. When I think of an oversized Crossbody bag, I don't imagine a giant sling bag if that's what you're thinking. I imagine shiny, buttery leather, slouching just right against my hip, big enough to fit basic essentials like my phone, wallet, makeup, water bottle, a perfume bottle , maybe even a rogue protein bar. It's sleek enough to look intentional, not like I'm hauling a suitcase. The strap is adjustable, which works best over a blazer or a loose sweater. Maybe it's quilted for texture (Take ideas, Chanel) or has a chunky buckle for edge. But is it runway ready?

Runways are embracing big bags with gusto. Spring 2025 saw “bratty handbags” at Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta, while Coach and AW Anderson flaunted oversized, slouchy silhouettes. The demand for practicality meets maximalism is clear. So why wouldn't designers scale up the Crossbody next?

Exaggerated shapes are having a moment too. Check Prada’s belted totes or Alaia’s Le Teckel. Imagine them, slung diagonally across the body. It could definitely work. Plus, A roomy Crossbody could bridge workwear and  weekend ease too. 

Certain designers have dabbled with this idea. Bottega Veneta’s Jodie and Andiamo hint at the potential. Scale either up, and you're close. 

Coach’s Spring 2025 kiss-lock pouches flirted with oversized shapes– imagine those as crossbodies?

The XL Park Tote from The Row? Maybe scale that down a bit, keeping that shape, and It could easily morph into a Crossbody with a longer strap. 

Reasons Why Designer's Might Hesitate to Introduce a Big Crossbody Bag

Crossbodies are loved for their compact ease. A bigger Crossbody might add a bulk factor and look like a misplaced messenger bag or a fanny pack gone wrong. Designers would really need to master structure here. 

While oversized clutches made a splash at Miu Miu and Stella McCartney, they're more editorial than everyday. An oversized Crossbody would have to prove its wearability.

Will Oversized Crossbody Bags Actually Be Practical?

Let me be real. The fashion industry loves selling us impractical things (looking at you, micro bags that don't even fit a credit card) but oversized Crossbody bags might just be the rare trend that's both practical yet stylish. 

Just Hear me out. 

Lightweight material, a structured shape, and adjustable straps. If designers can nail that, it's game on. It doesn't have to be a bulky nightmare you're imagining. All we need is a well-engineered, well-proportioned bag with smart compartments so we don't have to dig for our stuff like racoons in a trash can. That'll defeat the purpose of a Crossbody. 

If brands can balance style and function, oversized Crossbody bags could be a hero accessory for busy, stylish people.

How Can We Style an Oversized Crossbody Bag?

I think the trick here is balance. 

Pair it with streamlined fits like slip dresses, tailored blazers, or minimalist athleisure. Let the bag be your statement. 

If you want a streetwear look, you can go full “urban explorer” with cargo pants, chunky boots. I've a feeling Wisdom Kaye would love this look. 

It's all about your creativity and the statement you want to make.

What Design Features Would Make The Perfect Oversized Crossbody Bag?

If you ask about my dream version, I would love a buttery leather sling with organized compartments. Extendable, adjustable straps are a bonus, so I can easily layer it over coats. Maybe a flat back panel? So it doesn't bulge awkwardly. 

I also think the bag's SHAPE would matter more than the size. The right silhouette could literally make it or break it. Here are a few designs off the top of my head:

• A sloppy hobo bag in slouchy unstructured leather. It would avoid the boxy backpack vibe. 

• Oversized crescent moon shape. Like JW Anderson's corner bag but bigger? It will have a retro-futuristic appeal.

• A circle crossbody– will stand out from typical rectangular or square Crossbody bags.

• Oversized Crossbody in saddle shape

• Oversized rectangular purse but make it crossbody

Final Thoughts:

I believe big crossbody bags are a yes for me. But only if the designers get the formula right. The trend has legs, tapping into two major fashion currents: maximalist utility (big bags that actually fit your life) and effortless cool (I didn't try hard). With brands like BV and Coach already playing with exaggerated proportions, I think the groundwork is laid.

What's your take? Is an oversized Crossbody bag something you'd embrace or skip?