Whether or not you are a fashion expert, the word “saddle bag” most likely conjures up images of the legendary Dior Saddle, a mainstay of ’00s pop culture. According to Elizabeth Layne, Chief Marketing Officer of Rebag, “the Dior Saddle Bag made its debut in Dior’s Spring Summer 2000 collection by John Galliano and was instantly embraced by top celebrities like Beyoncé, Paris Hilton, and Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City.” This information is provided to Harper’s Bazaar. The Dior bag gave the traditional handbag design a fresh lease on life and elevated it to a level of celebrity, even if it was undoubtedly not the first saddle form in fashion history.
Usually, saddle bags are categorized by their crossbody strap and curved body with an equestrian influence. However, Dior altered the game with its reduced shoulder shape and upscale branded accents. The greatest saddle bags of today still have a basic aesthetic, but designers can also experiment with features, size, and forms. The term “handbag collector’s vernacular” has been revived for the bag by experimenting with almost every possible combination of strap length and size, including shoulder, crossbody, tiny, medium, and more designs.
However, the distinctive Dior shape continues to have a significant influence on fashion today. According to the data alone, the Dior Saddle Bag is selling at Rebag 25% faster than the typical handbag. “Not to mention that searches for the Dior Saddle Bag in particular rose by almost 50% year over year last year, making Christian Dior one of the most searched brands.” Also, this bag is becoming popular among customers who are not just women. Layne continues, “Saddle Bags are definitely no longer only for women.” “The 2022 Clair Report named the Dior Saddle Bag as one of the most popular men’s fashions.”
Why then is this bag suddenly in demand? Layne says, “The early 2000s style has made a comeback among Gen Z consumers, which has kept it at the top of the list of most coveted Saddle Bags in both retail and resale markets.” “It’s an antique piece with contemporary design elements that demonstrate how timeless Saddle Bags can withstand wear and tear while still being relevant in today’s world.” Customers are increasingly turning to the past in addition to eco-friendly buying options like platforms for secondhand and resale to locate the sought-after items that are in style or feel new.
Right now, it’s a smart idea to look at saddle bags as an investment buy (or resale, if you’re trying to clear out your own closet). One of our best investment-worthy items is the Dior Saddle Crossbody Bag, which alone retains 98% of its retail value on the secondary market, according to Layne. This implies that the Saddle Bag’s resale value, even for vintage models, may exceed the selling price. As was previously said, the Saddle Bag also declared itself to be an enduring “It-bag” due to its conventional yet timeless design.
In addition, there are many other extremely elegant Saddle Bags variations available if the Dior version isn’t your style. These will undoubtedly replace your go-to tote or backpack in your closet. Browse the top 23 saddle bags for the contemporary wardrobe right now.
1. Dior Mini Saddle Bag with Strap
The tiny version of the iconic ’00s bag has been updated with the same metal ‘CD’ strap detailing, saddle flap, and ‘D’ magnetic stirrup clasp. There are many other ways to wear and use yours: wear it over the shoulder with the short strap, carry it in your hands, or use the longer crossbody strap.
2. Chloé Marcie Small Saddle Bags
The Marcie bag was created in 2010 when Hannah McGibbon was the house’s Creative Director. Despite coming in a variety of forms, dimensions, materials, and hues, it has maintained its significance as a fashion item across time. The little interpretation’s straightforward round crossbody form with embroidery reminiscent of a horseshoe has a subtle western flair and actually feels like a saddle.
3. Loewe Gate Dual Mini Leather Shoulder Bag
Loewe’s take on the Saddle Bags is wholly contemporary. On the two-tone front flap, the brand’s trademark knotted strap trim and stamped emblem stand out. The beige hues complement everything in your wardrobe, making it the perfect daily purse.
4. Ganni Banner Recycled Leather Saddle Bags
Grab Ganni’s little purse for a modern take; it holds everything you need and more. This one features silver metal strap loops, white contrast top stitching, and a huge embossed logo front and center instead of the typical unremarkable design. The finest aspect? The material is repurposed leather.
5. See by Chloé Hana Mini Saddle Bags
Regarding the Saddle Bags interpretation of See by Chloé, the devil is in the details. This one adds a feminine touch to the basic crossbody design with a braided O-ring and sparkling charms on the front flap. The tiny bag size is perfect for carrying only what you need.
6. Coach Restored Saddle 24 Bag
Every bag merits a second chance in life. With Coach’s (Re)loved program, you may discover the most beloved classics (such as the basic saddle form) and more, all expertly restored to their original glory by the Coach Repair Workshop. Before they’re gone, grab yours.
7. Gucci Mini Shoulder Bag with Interlocking G
Gucci’s iconic canvas is adorned with the brand’s legacy Interlocking G logo pattern. This leather bag, trimmed with an equestrian-inspired buckle closure, will hold up nicely over time and never go out of style.
8. Isabel Marant Botsy Saddle Crossbody Bag
Isabel Marant’s Botsy bag is a successful product that plays with excessive texture. Brass accents complete the look, with a cognac brown leather trim striking against a cream weave body. Another design cue taken directly from a horse saddle is the front flap closure, which has a western flair.
9. A.P.C. Saddle Shoulder Bag
You can’t go wrong with a basic bag that can carry you from work to the weekend because it is stylish and simple. The crossbody strap and rounded bag shape of this saddle-inspired design feature a shorter flap and a softly engraved logo in the center of the front.
10. Dior Vintage Diorissimo Canvas Saddle Bags
A gently worn style is always a good decision, regardless of whether you are a vintage enthusiast or just love a good deal. Whether you’re a minimalist or trying to embrace the current Y2K era fashion, this canvas logo print style is sure to bring a little pizazz to any ensemble.
11. Madewell The Transport Saddlebag
This elegant yet understated design is big enough to accommodate a tablet while remaining manageable to hold hands free. With the matching leather and webbed crossbody straps that are included, you may change up the style whenever you’d like. The Leather Working Group (LWG), a group that supports environmentally responsible practices in the leather industry, awarded a Gold Rating to the tannery that produced the smooth leather. Also, add your own touch with the personalized monogram options.
12. Stella McCartney Frayme Shoulder Bag
You can rely on Stella McCartney to provide a chic purse without endangering animals. This environmentally responsible choice has a medallion charm, characteristic chain design, and silky vegetarian leather. Wear it with the short shoulder strap tucked inside, or even use it as a clutch.
13. Dior Saddle Bag
Many of the original fabrications and patterns of the traditional Saddle were produced in small quantities. The creations of today are equally amazing, such as this Andalusian baroque-inspired cornely-effect embroidery. Although the full size form has slightly more room than the small, it still features convertible straps that allow for numerous wearing options. It will be difficult to choose just one because they come in so many different colorways and fabrications.
14. Little Liffner Pebble Mini Bag
You won’t even notice you are carrying a bag thanks to Little Lifner’s subtle but charming take on the saddle bag. An excellent choice for events like concerts or festivals, where you want to have your personal belongings close to you but don’t need to carry a lot of baggage.
15. Alaïa Le Papa Medium Leather Shoulder Bag
Alaïa’s opulent interpretation of the saddle substitutes geometric accents for the traditional rounded curves. Your possessions will be kept neatly arranged thanks to the accordion design with three distinct sections and a pointed bottom that echoes the angular hardware clasp.
16. Tom Ford Tara Mini Cross-Body Bag
Tom Ford offers luxurious products in an unpretentious manner. The subtle inverted ‘T’ fastening on the front adds even more appeal to the grained leather design, which is produced in Italy. Furthermore, because of its broader cut thickness, the canvas carrying strap won’t pierce the skin.
17. Yvonne Koné Annika Leather Crossbody Bag
This boxier version of the saddle bags is the epitome of minimalist design. Without any prominent hardware or branding, the understated style allows the soft, premium leather speak for itself. Well-made, timeless, and tidy. More is there to ask for?
18. Patou Le Patou Leather Shoulder Bag
This modern interpretation of the Saddle Bags has a unique, stylish geometric flap pattern. Experiment with the strap’s adjustable length to get a comfortable high-shoulder or crossbody carry. Bonus points: this style is even more unique because it is fashioned from deadstock leather, which is only available in small amounts.
19. Clare V. Turnlock Louis Bag
An everyday alternative in the ideal size is always a good choice. Additionally, don’t discount the brand’s sizable strap selection. You may mix and match a variety of adjustable straps, from braided to chain link and more, for a distinctive spin, because of the clip-on construction.
20. Bottega Veneta Desiree Leather Saddle Bag
An everyday alternative in the ideal size is always a good choice. Additionally, don’t discount the brand’s sizable strap selection. You may mix and match a variety of adjustable straps, from braided to chain link and more, for a distinctive spin, because of the clip-on construction.
21. Il Bisonte Alloro Saddle Crossbody Bag
It’s all about simple luxury when it comes to the classics. Vegetable-tanned Vacchetta leather from Il Bisonte is a fantastic choice in the market for modern Saddle Bags since it is expertly crafted in Italy. When dressing casually for brunch, errands, and other occasions, pair yours with jeans on the weekends.
22. DeMellier Vancouver Flap Leather Shoulder Bag
The main goal of DeMellier is to provide ethically made Saddle Bags that give women a sense of empowerment. A staple model for the brand, the Vancouver form plays on the distinctive shape of a saddle bag while including eye-catching hardware and topstitching elements for a pop of color.
