Between the morning commute and the midnight detour, the bag you carry becomes more than an accessory. It is your anchor, your companion, and sometimes, your statement to the world. For the modern cowgirl who moves between city avenues and open trails, the choice often narrows to two icons: the tote and the crossbody. Both are born of utility and endure as fashion essentials.
But which one deserves a place on your shoulder day after day? Fashion, in its essence, is not only about following trends but also about honoring our roots. The American West deeply appreciates quality, authenticity, timeless detail, and enduring style. If you are one of them, pay homage to your roots and get dressed to explore those wild trails!
Now, imagine you start putting on an off-the-rack outfit for your daily grind, but find that quintessential Western feel missing from your ensemble. What would you do in such a frenzy? If you ask us, we would surely trust Loyal West to bring a Large Cowhide Tote Bag Purse to our modern cowgirl’s fashion rescue, riding atop a cute white horse! We believe the answer lies not in trends, but in heritage. Every tote and crossbody bag we craft draws from Western grit and timeless elegance, made to be worn, weathered, and remembered.
Tote Vs. Crossbody: What’s the Difference?
Tote Bags
Tote bags are roomy, versatile purses that are ideal for carrying literally everything. They’re open at the top with sturdy handles, making them a go-to for professionals, students, and explorers. the type of piece that complements both a linen blazer in Dallas and denim flares in Fort Worth. If you require space to stack up all those everyday essentials without compromising on fashion, this one’s your endgame.
Key Features:
- Large storage capacity
- Multiple compartments
- Often made from durable materials like leather
Styling Tip: Pair a hand-tooled tote with suede ankle boots and turquoise jewelry for an effortless fusion of function and frontier chic.
Crossbody Bags
If someone ever told you that bags designed for ease are boring, they were totally wrong! In its essence, crossbody bags are crafted for optimal convenience and hands-free carrying. With their long adjustable straps, these bags are compact and modish. Perfect for quick errands or outings, crossbody bags are a girl’s best friend, as they cling to you like a loved one! While totes speak of order and structure, crossbodies whisper freedom. They are the perfect partner for an Austin music night or a Cheyenne rodeo afternoon.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and compact
- Secure zippered closures
- Often feature attractive patchwork or embellishments
Styling Tip: Let tassels do the talking. Wear a textured crossbody bag with a flowing maxi dress so every step creates movement.
Tote Vs. Crossbody: A Practical Breakdown
| Feature | Tote Bag | Crossbody Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | High | Medium to low |
| Style | Professional and casual | Trendy and casual |
| Comfort | Hand-held or shoulder-carry | Hands-free convenience |
| Usage | Work, shopping, travel | Daily essentials and outings |
Why Loyal West Bags are Your Best Bet
Think of a high-quality leather bag in your wardrobe that goes with just about any outfit. Wouldn't that be wonderful? As a matter of fact, handcrafted leather goods never go out of style and can be paired with almost any clothing. They stay with you for years and are meant to be worn, weathered, and handed down. So, you don’t have to rack your brain anymore for putting together raw, graceful ensembles as your leather bag will do it for you!
Fashion may pivot season by season, but leather endures. What sets Loyal West apart is not just design but craft. The hand-tooled etching, the precise stitching, the promise that each bag grows better with time. Like turquoise jewelry passed through generations, these bags are made not just to be worn, but to be remembered.
Here is a list of timeless totes and crossbody bags that are your real companions for the daily westside grind!
The Western Luxe Edit: Loyal West’s Must-Have Bags
1. Standard Medium Tote Bag
A bag that speaks the language of timeless sophistication, the Standard Medium Tote Bag pays homage to everyday luxury. Crafted from supple calfskin with a clean, structured silhouette, it embodies versatility without losing its dignity. A quiet statement piece that never goes unnoticed, no matter where you go.
Colors Available: Black, Tan
Bag Size: 13.25(W) X 11.5(H) X 5(D)
Styling Tip: You can style it with a crisp linen blazer, slim denim, and polished booties. Top the outfit with a wide-brim hat for an effortless chic look.
2. Mivva Handtooled Medium Tote Bag
The Mivva Hand-tooled Medium Bag represents wearable artistry in its purest form. The piece carries the intricate charm of hand-tooled leather. Its craftsmanship echoes with Western heritage. A top-grain leather base ensures durability while the delicate etching transforms it into a keepsake. It’s a bag that feels less like a purchase and more like a legacy.
Colors Available: Light Brown, Dark Brown
Bag Size: 13.40(W) X 10.25(H) X 5(D)
Styling Tip: Pair it with suede, fringe, or even a prairie-inspired floral dress. Add turquoise jewelry and ankle boots for that rich, layered western flair.
3. Desert Dahilia Tassle Cross Body Bag
The Desert Dahlia Tassle Bag is where bohemian whimsy marries rugged elegance. A striking crossbody built from a patchwork of hair-on cowhide and smooth calfskin, it dazzles with intricate tooling and lively tassles. This crossbody bag is not meant to be in the background; it's a centerpiece that craves limelight and is a faithful partner for free-spirited adventurers.
Colors Available:Natural Calfskin with Leather Accents
Bag Size:9(W) X 8(H) X 2.75(D)
Styling Tip: Wear it with a flowy prairie dress, wide-legged denim, or layered leather. The tassels beg to be styled with movement.
4. Gloriana Mini Cross Body Purse
Playful yet poised, the Gloriana Mini Purse makes for a burst of color and texture to your daily fashion. Crafted in a mix of soft wool and smooth calfskin, the crossbody bag comes alive in vibrant hues of turquoise and red. Small but big in personality, it’s the piece that transforms a simple look into an editorial statement.
Colors Available:Turquoise Wool & Calfskin, Red Wool & Calfskin
Bag Size:9(W) X 5(H) X 2.25(D)
Styling Tip: Pair the turquoise with earthy neutrals, the red with denim or a sleek black dress for some evening drama. A suede jacket or Americana-inspired shirt will give that heritage-meets-modern vibe.
5. Hide and Fringe Large Cowhide Tote Purse
Daring, dramatic, and totally western, the Hide and Fringe Large Cowhide Tote Bag Purse is a modern embrace of all the trailblazing cowgirls. Crafted from natural cowhide and trimmed with cascading fringe, it celebrates movement and texture with every step. The generous size makes it a statement of both style and substance. With its raw yet refined presence, it embodies the untamed spirit of the frontier reimagined for today.
Colors Available: Natural Calfskin with Leather and Fringe Accents
Bag Size:13.75(W) X 15(H) X 6.5(D)
Styling Tip:Wear it with denim flares, a leather jacket, or a flowy maxi dress to embrace its wild energy. Add bold silver jewelry and classic western boots for a look that feels classy yet powerful.
At Loyal West, the answer doesn’t matter as much as the intention. Whether you choose totes or crossbody bags, the options for elevating your outfits with a country charm are endless. You’re choosing leather that tells your story, craftsmanship that honors its roots, and style that endures long after trends fade.