What makes canvas cross body bags so practical for a Wildish lifestyle?

In the fast-paced world of fashion, we want to slow down and focus on accessories that can help us experience life to the full. It’s easy to get bogged down with more stuff than you really need when running errands, walking the dog or heading out for brunch. This is where small cross body bags come in. They’re practical, stylish and simplify your walk, commute or day out by helping you stay organised with just the essentials, and nothing more. Read on to discover 7 reasons why canvas cross body bags can make a practical, stylish and long-lasting addition to your wardrobe.

They’re convenient

Cross body canvas bags are totally hands-free, making them particularly convenient for activities like walking the dog, running errands or getting a coffee on the go. No more juggling short-strapped handbags or flapping tote bags - cross body bags sit flat against your body, and their straps can be adjusted to the perfect length for whatever you’re getting up to.

With their smaller size and a zip at the top, it’s easy to access your keys, phone, wallet or water bottle quickly without having to dig through the depths of a bigger bag, as well as see exactly what you’ve brought with you. It’s like having an extra pocket that fits all of your stuff in at once!

They’re versatile

Canvas cross body bags are a simplified, pared-back version of the stylish cross-body trend. Thanks to their simple design and often neutral colours, they go with any outfit and suit every occasion. With their long, adjustable strap they can be worn high on the chest or lower on the body. Although they’re meant to be worn across the body, depending on your outfit you can also wear them over the shoulder on one side. Depending on the design, some crossbody bags can also be worn as bum bags around the waist or hips.

They’re also suitable for a variety of situations. Perfect for running errands in the city, waxed canvas bags are also naturally waterproof, and equally at home in the hills, mountains or on a drizzly riverside stroll as they are in an urban environment. This means they’re great for every season, summer to winter, no matter the weather.

They’re secure and comfortable

With their adjustable straps, cross body bags can fit any body. Waxed canvas is also a comfortable natural material that feels great to wear, without any uncomfortable hard corners to dog into you and cause discomfort. The more you wear your bag, the softer it will become! The crossbody strap also distributes weight much more evenly than other bags, making them much more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Cross body bags are also much more secure than over the shoulder bags, as it’s impossible for them to be snatched, which is especially useful when travelling or spending time in busy or crowded areas. Smaller cross body bags can easily be worn under jackets or coats, rather than over the top, for extra security.

They’re the ideal size

Have you ever been on a trip or spent a day out in town and wished you’d brought less stuff? Taking a smaller cross body bag with you lets you focus on the important things, like getting out in nature or connecting with friends, without worrying about how much stuff you’ve brought, or getting weighed down by a heavy bag. When it comes down to it, all you really need is your phone, keys, wallet, water bottle and maybe a paperback book or a notebook and pen. Maybe you can get by with even less!

They can elevate your style

For those concerned with fashion, adding a canvas cross body bag can immediately change and elevate your look. Choosing a neutral or matching colour can make the bag a cohesive part of your overall look, or choosing a brighter shade, like our 2.6L Ramsgill pouch in Rust, can add an interesting pop of colour.

Cross body bags look great with jeans and a layered t-shirt and jumper for a laid back look, or can help make a floral summer dress more casual alongside a pair of leather boots. Loosen the strap for a freer fit, or wear your crossbody high on the chest with cargo pants and a waterproof for a more utilitarian style. The options are unlimited.

They’re durable and eco-friendly

More and more canvas bags have been appearing in the fashion world recently, especially in the UK. Waxed cotton canvas is more than a trend, however - it’s a move towards more sustainable consumption. Canvas and waxed canvas is plastic free, and even though it’s waterproof it doesn’t contain any harmful ‘forever chemicals’ as many other waterproof clothes and accessories do. It’s built to be durable and withstand the elements.

A waxed cotton canvas cross body bag is the perfect choice for the conscious consumer, even more so if the bag is made in the UK. There are several brands who manufacture their crossbody bags on a smaller scale in Britain, Wildish included.

Read more about the history and sustainability of waxed cotton canvas here.

You can use them alongside other bags

No matter how much of a minimalist you are, sometimes one bag just isn’t enough. The magic of cross body bags is that they don’t stop you from using or wearing another bag alongside them. Wear them on the front with a rucksack on your back whilst travelling for easy passport and phone access, or fill them full of reusable cotton tote bags for a trip to the big supermarket. Or just use it if you want to have your phone and keys on hand, rather than lost in the bottom of your usual larger bag.

When choosing the perfect practical crossbody bag for your lifestyle, it’s important to pay attention to the size, style and material. If you’re a fan of British-made products, you might also want to look at where and how your bag was made.

Check out our collection of waxed canvas bags to find the perfect one for you.