I started noticing them when stadium bags took off—belt bags were trending big time (thanks, largely, to Lululemon’s Everywhere Bag), and people were looking for a little variety. I was immediately drawn to the comfort and customization guitar straps (or camera straps) offered, elevating those clear crossbodies for concerts and game days. But since then, they’ve been popping up more and more, appearing on leather—and faux leather—bags, on tote-sized purses and slim cell phone cases alike.

So, for everyone wondering…

Are Camera Bags Still in Style in 2024?

Yes. I’m calling it now: This trend will only get bigger as 2024 continues—especially during peak summer and concert season. While camera bags, in this case, refer to a rectangular bag that’s wider and roomier than a clutch—rather than a bag specifically designed to hold a camera—part of their appeal may also have to do with the return of disposable and point-and-shoot cameras. They’re just the right size to stow one, along with your other essentials, and they have a classic shape that’s easy to carry and they’re less gimmicky than guitar strap bags.

What About Guitar Strap Bags? Are They Still in Style?

Yes, with a caveat—guitar strap bags can look costume-y if you lean into the guitar look a bit too hard (picture 2002 Avril fans at Hot Topic, or people who got really into Penny’s look in Almost Famous). But as long as you don’t make the guitar strap the new pillar of your identity, you’ll be fine.

How Do You Style a Camera or Guitar Strap Bag?

They can be surprisingly versatile. This Pinterest board, curated by Chumph, offers great inspo:

• Go preppy with jeans, a button-down and a tailored trench
• Skew boho with a flowy tent dress or maxi dress and ankle booties or cowboy boots
• Opt for a cozy-yet-modern look with an oversized sweater and leggings or tights

8 Fun Camera & Guitar Strap Bags to Check Out

1. Crown Vintage Guitar Strap Wallet

When you just need to hold your cards, cash, phone and keys, this is the bag to reach for. You can remove the guitar strap and use it as a wallet within a larger tote too, making it pretty versatile.

2. Efilra Neutral Crossbody Bag

Ease into the guitar strap trend with a neutral bag, like this three-pocket style. The classic, rectangular shape and muted tones mean it won’t go out of style quickly, and you can wear it with just about anything. Choose from one of 14 color and strap combinations.

3. Sling Crossbody Guitar Strap Purse

You’re into the oversized belt bag trend, but you want something not quite as bulky—and feels a bit fresher. Look no further than this sling style crossbody, which has just enough room for your essentials, plus a small brush, notebook or makeup. Oh, and it’s available in 12 color combos.

4. Lucky Brand Lara Guitar Strap Crescent Bag

More of a splurge—and less of a traditional guitar strap bag—this crescent-shaped style is a little sleeker than the typical style associated with this look. The structured shape gives you a more polished, pulled-together look, which is only accentuated by the four interior pockets and two exterior pockets (because then you don’t have to fumble and rummage through the bag to find what you need).

5. Marc Jacobs Crystal Canvas Snapshot Bag

The priciest bag on this list by far, but the Marc Jacobs Crystal Canvas Snapshot bag is a serious head-turner. It’s studded with clear crystals for a glam-meets-modern touch, and is just big enough to hold your essentials—without any unnecesary bulk.

6. MarleyLilly Monogram Tote

Roomy enough to tote a book, tablet or magazine, and totally customizable, making it a great gift for students. Choose from 34 thread colors and 10 fonts to add a monogram to the outside, as well as three tote fabrics, to make this bag truly your own (or unique to whoever you’re giving it to—you get the idea).

7. Coach Amelia Small Saddle Bag

At first, the reviews spooked me: What made this a three-star bag?! Turns out, there are just two reviews—one five-star, one one-star—and the one-star’s complaint is that it’s just too small. At 6.5 inches long, 5 inches high and 2.5 inches wide, this may not fit large cell phones and certainly qualifies for the micro bag trend…but that’s also put of its charm. (Why are tiny things so cute?!) And that pebble leather? Swoon.

8. Madewell The Transport Camera Bag

Available in brown or black, this camera bag leather exterior adds an effortlessly cool slouchiness to an otherwise structured purse. You can choose between two straps, including a wide, classic camera strap-style, and it can comfortably tote a dispo, should you feel snap-happy. (While I tend to prefer vegan leather, Madewell does assert their real deal leather is sourced from a tannery that received a gold rating from the Leather Working Group, a non-profit that works to promote sustainability within the industry.)

3 Guitar Strap Styles for Your Fave Bags

• Beaded football-themed guitar straps, $65 at Etsy
• Classic Embroidered guitar strap, $10+ at Amazon (20 designs to choose from)
• Marc Jacobs logo guitar strap, $95 at Marc Jacobs

Editor’s Note: This story originally ran in September 2023. It has since been updated to reflect current trends and to ensure all products are in stock and prices are accurate as of March 2024. (Lead photo: Marc Jacobs)