Crossbody vs. Sling Bags: The 2025 Hands-Free Trend Millennials & Gen Z Swear By

In today’s day and age, we are almost always on the move. That’s just life now. Between work, travel, and everything in between, and for that same reason, we need bags that don’t slow us down, even in the slightest.
From crowded morning commutes to weekend road trips, these bags have officially taken over. They're sleek, functional, and, of course, effortlessly stylish. In 2025, two styles are leading the way: the classic leather crossbody bag and the effortlessly cool sling bag.
Both have their loyal fan bases. Both have their moment. But what’s the difference? And which one fits your lifestyle better?
We are here to explain. Let’s break it down!
What’s the Difference? Crossbody vs. Sling Bag Explained
Crossbody bags have been an all-time classic. They’re structured, stylish, and incredibly easy to wear. They are the kind of unsung heroes in our wardrobes.
They usually have a boxy silhouette. The strap runs diagonally across your body, and the bag rests near your hip. Super comfortable to carry. All the way from impromptu trips to chic office outfits, these bags will have your back (literally).
We’ve found crossbody bags to be perfect for everyday use. Whether it's errands, brunch, or an evening out, they just work. If you're into polished outfits and classic designs, a leather crossbody bag should be your go-to.
We especially love how versatile these bags are. A small leather crossbody bag easily fits all the essentials that you might need and more—keys, phone, wallet, lip balm—and still looks elevated. And when you want something timeless? You can’t go wrong with a black leather crossbody bag.
There’s also a reason why leather crossbody bags for women are trending this year: they strike the perfect balance between style and practicality. These bags simply check all the boxes: stylish, compact, and dependable.

Sling Bags: Casual, Cool, and Built for Movement
If crossbody bags are structured and polished, sling bags are their chill cousin. They’re a little more relaxed, often worn diagonally across the chest or slung across the back.
They’re usually softer in shape, more like a teardrop, and are worn across the chest or back. This design is ideal for people who move a lot during the day. We’ve seen creatives, cyclists, and frequent travelers swear by them.
The appeal? They stay out of the way, but keep your essentials close. You can grab what you need without taking the bag off. And because they hug your body, sling bags feel secure.
For us, sling bags feel more street-style than formal. They pair well with laid-back outfits. And if you haven’t checked out WP Standard’s Sling Bags Collection yet, it’s definitely worth a scroll. Clean design, solid materials, and built to move with you.
WP Standard's Signature Sling Bags
When it comes to sling bags, WP Standard offers three stunning options; each crafted from high-quality full-grain leather and designed to elevate your hands-free game. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or out for the weekend, there’s a style for every kind of movement.
#1 The Sling Bag
This is the everyday go-to. With a clean silhouette and just enough room for your phone, keys, wallet, and essentials, it’s perfect for day-to-day wear. The leather softens beautifully over time, making it even more comfortable the more you use it.
#2 The Sling Bag XL
Need a bit more room without switching to a backpack? The Sling Bag XL gives you extra capacity while maintaining that same sleek, minimal look. Great for creatives, travelers, or anyone who carries a little extra every day.
#3 The Rattan Sling Bag
This bag fuses earthy elegance with modern utility. The rattan and leather combo makes it a standout piece for spring and summer, and the structured design ensures your essentials stay secure and easy to access.

Choosing the Right Fit Based on Function and Style
Choosing between a sling and a crossbody comes down to your lifestyle.
So here’s how we usually decide:
If we need a bag that works with our everyday outfits, like jeans and a blazer or a midi dress, it’s going to be a leather crossbody bag. It just blends in better with structured, day-to-night looks.
It is both versatile and stylish. It pairs well with everything and suits most occasions.
But if you’re always on the move, commuting, hiking, or biking, but still want all your essentials sorted, a sling bag might be a better choice.
Crossbody bags usually have more compartments. Sling bags keep it minimal. Even the leather finish feels different: crossbodies lean classic, while slings feel more modern.
So ask yourself: Do you need polished or practical? Structure or softness? There’s no wrong answer. Just the right fit for you.
Caring for Your Leather Bag: Tips for Long-Term Beauty
Leather has a charm to it, but once you’ve invested in it, you need to take care of it. Here are a few suggestions we recommend to keep your leather pieces looking pristine for a long time:
- Wipe down your bag with a soft cloth every week or two to keep dust away.
- Use a leather conditioner every few months to prevent cracking, especially if you use the bag daily.
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Store them in breathable cloth covers (not plastic!) and keep them dry and cool.
For deeper tips, check out WP Standard’s Leather Care Guide. It’s super helpful and easy to follow.
FAQ
Q: What’s the difference between a sling bag and a crossbody bag?
A sling bag has a more relaxed feel to it and is worn across the chest or back. A crossbody bag has more structure and usually sits at the hip.
Q: Are crossbody bags better for everyday use?
Yes. They are comfortable and easy to wear all day without feeling bulky.
Q: What’s the best small leather crossbody bag for 2025?
We’re loving WP Standard’s black leather crossbody bag. It’s compact and timeless.
Q: How do you style a sling bag with streetwear?
Sling it across your chest with joggers, a white tee, and sneakers. Instant, effortless cool.
Q: How should I care for a leather crossbody or sling bag?
Wipe it down regularly and use leather conditioner every few months. Store it dry and dust-free.
Crossbody or sling, leather bags will always be in trend. So, without any further confusion, shop from WP Standard for the premium quality leather bags.