Hobo Bags

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    Learn More About Hobo Bags

    A hobo bag is a handbag or purse featuring a crescent shape and slouchy posture. They typically have a long strap and sit at the hip. Hobo bags are named after the handmade satchels used by the migrating, unhoused workers at the end of the 19th century. These traveling trade people tied cloth to sticks to carry their belongings while looking for work.


    Hobo bags generally feature ample storage space without structure or extra compartments. The casual and versatile look of hobo bags for women makes them easy to dress up or down. Carry items like notebooks and pens or lipstick and compact cases without adding bulk to your look. Sellers on Etsy have created eye-catching collections of everything from vintage hobo bags to minimalist modern designs and everything in between.

    Hobo bag purses make a flexible addition to your accessory lineup. Their formless shape and effortless style make them a great choice for a farmer’s market, a dinner date, or a weekend getaway. Here are just some of the styles of hobo bags available from the shops on Etsy:


    • Embroidered: Embroidered hobo bags feature intricate designs and unique one-of-a-kind customizations. Use one as a day trip bag to hold all your essentials or as a stylish way to make a simple outfit pop.
    • Leather: Leather and vegan leather hobo bags are made from rich, luscious material that only gains character the more you use them. Many designer hobo bags are made from leather or imitation leather for a simple, timeless feel.
    • Canvas: Canvas hobo bags are one of the most durable styles available. They stand up to spills, adventures, and life’s everyday messes with ease and are usually washable. Heavy canvas adds more structure while maintaining that classic crescent shape.
    • Cotton: Cotton hobo bags make great additions to boho and retro looks. Some cotton hobo bags feature fringe, bright colors, and textured fabrics for a weathered, well-used look sure to turn heads. Crossbody hobo bags with thick, comfortable sling straps are often made from cozy cotton.

    The straightforward design of a hobo bag opens up limitless possibilities for accessorizing. Any style aesthetic can be enhanced and accentuated by the right hobo bag. Here are a few ideas for creating memorable looks:


    • Pair a small hobo bag with a flowy spring skirt and cotton v-neck to go sightseeing and take some media-worthy selfies.
    • Toss a hobo shoulder bag around your neutral jumpsuit and top it off with classic sneakers and a retro bandana for some vintage vibes.
    • Carry a rich brown leather hobo bag with classic jeans and an oversized flannel for an autumn date at the apple orchard.
    • Wow your fellow guests at the company cocktail party by accenting a little black dress with a jewel-toned velvet hobo bag.
    • Feel like the cool mom on the playground and keep your toddler's favorite books, stuffies, and snacks close at hand in an oversized hobo bag.