A New Day Crossbody Bag

Why Target’s beloved affordable line deserves a spot in your wardrobe (and how to choose the right one for you)

I’ll be honest with you – I never thought I’d become someone who obsesses over handbags. Yet here I am, three years into my love affair with A New Day crossbody bags, and I can confidently say they’ve revolutionized how I think about functional fashion. What started as a quick Target run for laundry detergent turned into discovering what might be the most underrated crossbody bag line on the market.

Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these surprisingly versatile bags through countless hours of research, real-world testing, and yes, probably too many impulse purchases. Whether you’re a crossbody novice or a seasoned bag collector looking for budget-friendly options, this comprehensive buying guide for A New Day crossbody bags will help you make the perfect choice.

Why A New Day Crossbody Bags Caught My Attention

Let me paint you a picture of my pre-A New Day life. I was that person juggling a too-heavy tote bag, constantly digging through its black hole depths for my keys while my shoulder screamed in protest. I’d tried designer crossbodies that looked gorgeous but felt flimsy, and budget options that fell apart within months. I was skeptical when my sister recommended checking out Target’s A New Day crossbody bags – could something so affordable really deliver on both style and substance?

The first bag I tried was their classic faux leather crossbody in cognac brown. At $19.99, I figured I had nothing to lose. That was two years ago, and that same bag is still going strong, having survived daily use, weekend trips, and more adventures than I can count. It was my gateway drug into what I now recognize as one of the smartest handbag lines for practical fashionistas.

Decoding the A New Day Style Universe

What styles of A New Day crossbody bags are available? This question opens up a surprisingly diverse world. The line offers everything from minimalist envelope-style bags perfect for evening outings to structured satchel-crossbodies that transition seamlessly from office to weekend. Let me break down the main categories I’ve encountered:

The classic crossbody represents the bread and butter of the collection. These feature a clean, rectangular silhouette with a zippered main compartment and typically one or two interior pockets. They’re the Swiss Army knife of handbags – simple, reliable, and endlessly versatile.

Then there are the convertible styles that can transform from crossbody to shoulder bag with an adjustable strap. I own three of these because they’re absolute lifesavers when you need to switch up your look throughout the day. The hardware is surprisingly robust for the price point, and the conversion process is genuinely seamless.

The camera bag style has become increasingly popular, featuring a boxy shape reminiscent of vintage camera bags but sized perfectly for modern essentials. These tend to have a slightly more structured feel and often include exterior pockets that are incredibly handy for quick access items.

For those who prefer a softer aesthetic, the hobo-style crossbodies offer a more relaxed silhouette while maintaining the hands-free convenience. These typically feature magnetic closures rather than zippers and have a more casual, lived-in appeal.

The Materials Game: Quality That Surprises

What materials are used in A New Day crossbody bags? This was one of my biggest concerns initially. Could materials at this price point possibly hold up to daily use? After extensive testing across multiple bags, I’m pleased to report that A New Day has seriously impressed me with their material choices.

The faux leather options make up the majority of the line, and they’ve clearly invested in quality synthetic materials. The texture feels genuine to the touch, and the bags develop a nice patina over time rather than simply looking worn. I’ve had bags survive everything from surprise rainstorms to accidental coffee spills without showing significant damage.

For those seeking alternatives, the canvas and fabric options provide excellent durability with a more casual aesthetic. These tend to be slightly lighter weight and often feature fun prints or textures that add personality to any outfit. The stitching quality across all materials has consistently impressed me – I haven’t experienced any of the seam failures that plagued cheaper bags I’ve owned in the past.

Are there vegan leather options for A New Day crossbody bags? Absolutely, and this is where the brand really shines. Their faux leather is completely synthetic, making it an excellent choice for anyone avoiding animal products. The quality rivals many “vegan leather” bags I’ve seen at three times the price point.

The Durability Test: Real-World Performance

Are A New Day crossbody bags durable? This is where my extensive field testing comes in handy. I’m not gentle with my bags – they come with me on hiking trails, get tossed in car trunks, and endure the daily chaos of city commuting. Over the past three years, I’ve put seven different A New Day crossbodies through their paces, and the results have been consistently impressive.

The zippers, which are often the first failure point on budget bags, have held up remarkably well. The hardware shows minimal wear even after months of daily use. The straps, despite being adjustable and frequently modified, haven’t shown signs of weakness or stretching.

I did have one bag develop a small scratch on the front panel after an unfortunate encounter with a tree branch during a particularly enthusiastic hiking adventure, but even that seemed to blend into the overall patina rather than looking like damage. For bags in this price range, the durability factor genuinely exceeds expectations.

Pricing Strategy: Maximum Value for Your Dollar

How much do A New Day crossbody bags cost? This is where things get really interesting. The standard pricing ranges from $16.99 to $39.99, with most popular styles falling in the $19.99 to $24.99 range. But here’s where strategic shopping comes into play.

Do A New Day crossbody bags go on sale often? More frequently than you might expect. Target runs regular promotions on their in-house brands, and I’ve snagged bags for as low as $12 during end-of-season clearances. They also participate in Target’s buy-two-get-one-free promotions fairly regularly, which is how I ended up with my small collection.

The key is timing your purchases around Target’s promotional calendar. Back-to-school season, Black Friday, and post-holiday clearances offer the best opportunities for deals. I’ve also noticed that color-specific markdowns happen when they’re transitioning seasonal collections.

Size Matters: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Do A New Day crossbody bags come in different sizes? The variety has been one of my favorite discoveries. The line offers everything from compact evening bags that hold just the essentials to larger styles that can accommodate everything you need for a full day out.

The mini crossbodies (typically around 6″ x 8″) are perfect for nights out when you only need your phone, cards, and keys. I have one in black patent that’s become my go-to for concerts and dinner dates.

The standard size (approximately 8″ x 10″) represents the sweet spot for daily use. These comfortably hold a standard smartphone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, and small beauty essentials without feeling bulky across your body.

For those who need more space, the larger styles (up to 12″ x 14″) can accommodate tablets, small laptops, and everything needed for work or travel. Can A New Day crossbody bags fit a tablet or small laptop? The larger styles definitely can, though I’d recommend checking specific dimensions against your device.

Everyday Practicality: The Real-World Test

Are A New Day crossbody bags suitable for everyday use? This question gets to the heart of why I’ve become such an advocate for this line. The answer is an emphatic yes, but with some important considerations about choosing the right style for your lifestyle.

For my daily routine – which includes commuting via public transportation, long days at the office, and evening activities – the standard-sized crossbodies have proven ideal. Are A New Day crossbody bags lightweight? Remarkably so. Even when fully loaded with daily essentials, they don’t create the shoulder strain I experienced with heavier bags.

The adjustable straps have been crucial for versatility. Do A New Day crossbody bags have adjustable straps? Yes, and the range of adjustment is quite generous. I can wear the same bag across my body for hands-free shopping or adjust it shorter for a more traditional shoulder bag look when the situation calls for it.

Organization and Functionality: Inside Story

Do A New Day crossbody bags have multiple compartments? This varies by style, but the thoughtful interior design has consistently impressed me. Most styles feature at least one interior zippered pocket perfect for securing important items like credit cards or cash. Many also include slip pockets sized perfectly for smartphones.

Are there A New Day crossbody bags with zipper closures? The majority feature secure zipper closures, though some of the hobo-style bags opt for magnetic snap closures for easier access. I personally prefer the zippers for peace of mind, especially when traveling or in crowded areas.

The organization extends to thoughtful details like key clips and pen holders in some styles. While they’re not as feature-rich as some premium brands, the functionality perfectly matches the intended use cases.

Color Psychology: Expressing Your Style

What colors do A New Day crossbody bags come in? This is where the line really shines for style-conscious shoppers. The color palette changes seasonally, but typically includes classic neutrals like black, brown, cognac, and gray alongside trend-driven options.

I’ve noticed they’re quite good at predicting color trends. My sage green crossbody from last spring was perfectly timed with the broader sage green moment in fashion. The seasonal colors often go on clearance when new collections arrive, which is how I’ve built my rainbow of options.

The neutral colors have proven most versatile for everyday wear. My cognac brown bag pairs with almost everything in my wardrobe, while my black patent adds sophistication to evening looks. For those wanting to make more of a statement, the seasonal colors offer great opportunities to add personality to outfits.

Sustainability Considerations: Making Conscious Choices

Are there eco-friendly or sustainable options in A New Day crossbody bags? While the line doesn’t specifically market itself as eco-friendly, the durability factor contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements. I’ve been using some of my bags for over two years with minimal signs of wear, which represents significantly better longevity than many fast-fashion accessories.

The vegan leather options eliminate animal products from the equation, which appeals to environmentally conscious shoppers. While the synthetic materials aren’t biodegradable, the extended lifespan means fewer bags ending up in landfills compared to ultra-cheap alternatives that need frequent replacement.

Travel Companion: Taking A New Day on the Road

Are A New Day crossbody bags suitable for travel? This has been one of my favorite discoveries. The lightweight construction makes them excellent travel companions, whether as carry-on personal items or for daily use while exploring new destinations.

The security features – primarily the zippered closures and ability to wear the bag across your body – provide peace of mind in crowded tourist areas. The compact organization helps keep important documents and cards easily accessible while maintaining security.

I’ve traveled with my A New Day crossbodies through airports, on international trips, and during weekend getaways. They’ve held up beautifully and proven incredibly practical for keeping essentials organized and accessible while navigating unfamiliar places.

Shopping Strategy: Where and How to Buy

Where can I buy A New Day crossbody bags? Target stores and Target.com represent the primary retail channels, though I’ve occasionally spotted them at Target’s outlet stores as well. The online selection often includes exclusive colors or styles not available in physical stores.

Where can I find reviews for A New Day crossbody bags? Target’s website features customer reviews that I’ve found generally accurate and helpful. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, also showcase real-world styling inspiration and honest user experiences.

I recommend checking reviews specifically for the style you’re considering, as different designs can have varying strengths and weaknesses. Pay attention to comments about sizing, as some styles run larger or smaller than expected.

Comparison Shopping: How A New Day Stacks Up

How do A New Day crossbody bags compare to other brands? Having owned crossbodies from various price points, I can offer some perspective on where A New Day fits in the broader market.

Compared to luxury brands, A New Day obviously can’t match the prestige or ultra-premium materials, but for everyday functionality, they perform remarkably well. The style quality rivals many mid-range brands while undercutting them significantly on price.

Against other budget options, A New Day consistently wins on durability and design sophistication. I’ve tried similar bags from other retailers at comparable price points, and the A New Day bags typically outlast and outperform them.

The sweet spot seems to be for shoppers who want stylish, functional bags without the premium price tag. They’re perfect for building a collection of different colors and styles without breaking the budget.

Popular Styles and Trends

What are the most popular styles of A New Day crossbody bags? Based on my observations and conversations with Target associates, the classic rectangular crossbodies in neutral colors represent the bestsellers. The convertible styles have also gained significant traction among shoppers who appreciate versatility.

Camera bag styles have become increasingly popular, particularly among younger shoppers who appreciate the vintage-inspired aesthetic. The mini crossbodies see spikes in popularity around formal event seasons – prom, wedding season, and holidays.

I’ve noticed that new style introductions often start with limited color options that expand if the silhouette proves popular. This creates opportunities to snag unique colors before they become widely available or potentially go to clearance if they don’t catch on.

Making Your Choice: A Personal Decision Framework

After three years of experience with A New Day crossbody bags, I’ve developed a personal framework for choosing the right style. Start by honestly assessing your daily needs. Do you carry a lot of items or prefer to travel light? Will this be an everyday bag or occasional use piece?

Consider your lifestyle factors. If you’re frequently in and out of cars, shoulder bags might be more practical than true crossbody wear. If you walk or use public transportation regularly, the hands-free aspect becomes crucial.

Think about your style preferences and existing wardrobe. Neutral colors offer maximum versatility, while seasonal colors can add personality but might have shorter useful lives as trends change.

Finally, consider your budget timeline. If you need a bag immediately, paying full price for a classic style makes sense. If you can wait, strategic timing around sales can allow you to try multiple styles or colors for the same investment.

The Verdict: Why A New Day Deserves Your Attention

After extensive real-world testing, I can confidently recommend A New Day crossbody bags as exceptional value propositions for practical, style-conscious shoppers. They successfully bridge the gap between functionality and fashion without requiring a significant financial investment.

The quality consistently exceeds expectations for the price point, the style options provide genuine variety, and the practical features address real-world needs. While they may not carry the prestige of luxury brands, they deliver on the core promise of accessible, attractive, functional handbags.

For anyone seeking a reliable, stylish crossbody bag without the premium price tag, A New Day offers compelling options worthy of serious consideration. Whether you’re building your first handbag collection or supplementing an existing one, these bags provide excellent opportunities to explore different styles and colors without major financial commitment.

In a world where handbag prices seem to climb ever higher, A New Day crossbody bags represent a refreshing alternative that proves quality and style don’t always require premium pricing. They’ve earned their place in my regular rotation and continue to surprise me with their versatility and durability.

The buying guide for A New Day crossbody bags ultimately comes down to understanding that sometimes the best solutions are also the most accessible ones. These bags have simplified my daily routine, enhanced my style options, and proved that smart shopping can yield genuine value. For that, they’ll always have a place in my closet – and my heart.