Cross-body handbags

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The Third Arm
Sorry, fanny pack lovers, but as long as the cross-body bag exists, there's no reason for that spare tire of a pouch to make a comeback. The extra-long strap keeps your arms free so you can text, balance a cardboard to-go tray of iced coffees or haul groceries without feeling like you're a pair of mouse ears away from resembling that photo of your mom at Disneyland in the late '80s.

Look for a size that's just large enough to carry a hardcover book or a 7-inch tablet. That way you won't be tempted to overstuff the bag with "just in case" extras that will kill your shoulder after an hour's wear.

Clockwise from top left: Neon Yellow Crossbody, $65; RachelRoy.com. Tory Burch "Robinson - Mini" Crossbody Bag, $195; Nordstrom.com. Legacy Colorblock Leather Swingpack, $178; Coach.com. Colorblock Perforated Leather Mini Bag, $168; AnnTaylor.com. Ted Baker London Large Quilted Crossbody Bag, $165; Nordstrom.com.