One of my favorite fashion trends that continues from 2016 is the saddle bag purse trend. I love their retro, yet practical vibe. I’m constantly searching for the perfect cross-body bag for all my travels and I think I finally found it. I’m obsessed with my denim blue saddle bag for three reasons.

1. A Saddle Bag Purse is Great For Travel

The reason I love saddle bag purses for traveling is because the cross-body strap gives me a hands-free and arms-free option. Cross-body purses are great in case I need to stop to look at a map or snap a quick selfie in front of an important landmark. Also, many of the saddle bag purses are roomie enough to hold my essentials. They aren’t very heavy, so they don’t weigh me down as I’m walking all around the cities as I explore. I also wear the bag across my body but place it right at my front hip so I always know right where my items are. Although I love that backpacks are back in style, I prefer to travel with a saddle bag because I can keep all of my things right at my hip so I never have to worry about pick-pockets.

{Stacey’s Look: LOFT Dress, Banana Republic Jacket (similar), Coach Purse (c/o), Chanel Bangle, Banana Republic Ring (similar), Donald J. Pliner booties; OPI Nail Polish, Naked2 Eye Makeup, Madame LA LA Bronzing Ball}

2. Saddle Bags are Timeless

The saddle bag style, like my bag, was first introduced by Coach in 1972. At 45 years old, it is a total classic, yet timeless style. I remember when my sister first got a Coach purse back in the mid-90s. I thought she was so cool and I loved that black saddle bag she had back then. Looking back, I realize the saddle bag purse is one that will always be around, with periods of greater popularity. Just like a Chanel classic flap, the saddle bag is here to stay. I am so excited to add this denim blue saddle bag to my wardrobe, as I know I’ll have it for many years to come.

3. A Saddle Bag Purse Goes with Everything

My initial obsession with saddle bag purses started last summer when I spotted this Sancia saddle bag at a new local boutique in Phoenix. I ended up bringing that purse with me to Italy, and it was a great addition to my travel wardrobe. I definitely wore it with many different looks, from more casual to dressy. Just like my Sancia bag, I know I’ll be able to wear my denim saddle bag with so many different things. It is the perfect bag to transition from day to night. I’m especially excited about the denim blue color because it is not your obvious brown or black. The blue color still acts as a neutral, so you can wear it with basically everything.

If you’re in the market for a new handbag this spring, you should definitely check out all the great saddle bag purses on the market. Here are some of my favorites.