These small-yet-stylish shoulder bags are perfect for your makeup and daily essentials

Published Feb 5, 2025 8:05 am ET


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composite photo of small shoulder bags available on Amazon
Graphic by Lauryn Jiles; photos Amazon

As a fashion writer, I’m always on the lookout for a chic new bag. (In fact, I own way too many to count.) But while a novelty bag is nice for special occasions, having an everyday bag that holds my on-the-go makeup products, wallet, phone and other essentials is a must. Case in point: Anytime I see a photo of a celeb carrying their phone, coffee and wallet in their hands, I always think, “They need a shoulder bag for all of that!”

So, since I consider myself a handbag connoisseur, I’ve laid out a list of some of the most stylish-yet-functional shoulder bags you can find on Amazon right now. Whether you’re running errands or going to brunch, these will pair well with just about any outfit.

  1. This JW PEI shoulder bag has a unique ruched design and is lined with vegan leather and faux suede. I love to style this bag with a fun flowy skirt and top, but the style opportunities are limitless.

>> Buy the JW PEI Women’s Gabbi Ruched Hobo Handbag for $79.99 on Amazon

  1. This shoulder bag comes with two straps, and has plenty of room to hold all of your daily items. Style this purse year-round with a chic sweater, flowy sundress or pair of loafers for a classic look.

>> Buy the Travistar Shoulder Bag for Women for $29.99 on Amazon

  1. This elegant shoulder bag is perfect for date night, brunch or work. It has a unique crescent shape, an adjustable strap and zipper closure. Plus, it comes in 14 colors!

>> Buy the Elegant Crescent Shoulder Bag Underarm Purse for $28.95 on Amazon

  1. For a super affordable option, go with this trendy Chelmon shoulder bag, which comes in eight colors. Channel your inner office siren and pair this bag with a classic blouse, slacks and boots.

>> Buy the Chelmon Women’s Shoulder Bag for $14.99 on Amazon

  1. This best-selling shoulder bag is perfect for any occasion. It can be styled with basics like jeans and cotton tees or dressed up with a luxurious dress and heels.

>> Buy the Hobo Shoulder Bags for Women for $15.98 on Amazon

  1. A good crocodile bag should always be in your handbag rotation. I love styling this croc-embossed JW PEI shoulder bag with a pair of knee-high boots, a black mini shirt and a snazzy top.

>> Buy the JW PEI Women’s Ruby Shoulder Bag for $89.99 on Amazon

  1. For a more affordable crocodile style bag, we love this best-selling option. And since every croc bag needs boots to match, pair these with some knee high croc boots and your favorite black or denim skirt.

>> Buy the PU Leather Shoulder Bag for $30.99 on Amazon

  1. If you want to relive some Y2K nostalgia, we have just the bag for you. Pair this hobo bag with a denim skirt, a V-neck tee and lots of bracelets for a full-on 2000s look.

>> Buy the Verdusa Y2K Shoulder Bag Purse for $25.99 on Amazon

  1. I love a good Coach bag, and if you’re willing to splurge a little, this shoulder bag is a must-have for your makeup and daily essentials. (Not to mention, it looks like something Jennifer Lopez would carry around.)

>> Buy the Coach Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 28 for $295 on Amazon

  1. For a classic everyday look, opt for this slouchy shoulder bag. While it comes in over 25 colors, you can create a “double denim” look by pairing this blue shade with jeans and accessorizing with gold jewelry, black boots and a classic white tee.

>> Buy the Montana West Hobo Shoulder Bag for $26.99 on Amazon

Lauryn Jiles

Lauryn Jiles

Author McClatchy Commerce

Lauryn Jiles is a Content Commerce Assistant at McClatchy. She is based in South Carolina and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Lauryn has written for numerous brands and is well-versed in the fashion, beauty, health, and lifestyle verticals. She enjoys yoga, coffee, fashion museums, sushi, and traveling.

Kayleigh Drake

Kayleigh Drake

Editor McClatchy Commerce

Kayleigh Drake is a Commerce Content Editor at McClatchy. She’s based in Birmingham, Alabama, and holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Kayleigh has written and edited content for numerous publications, with a particular focus on the food, kitchen, home and lifestyle verticals. When she’s not fulfilling her editorial duties, she loves record shopping, playing guitar, baking and buying entirely too many plants.