I used to think crochet bags were just for the beach, but today's hand-crocheted handbags have come a long way from basic beach totes. Today’s offerings blend artisan craftsmanship with impeccable style—think sophisticated textures, unexpected silhouettes, and designs that easily go from brunch to the Bahamas. Whether you're drawn to sustainable materials, colorful patterns, or practical functionality, let’s just say: these aren't your grandmother's crochet bags. Here are six standout styles that prove crochet can be anything but...basic.
1. The Sak Sayulita Backpack - Sand Neutral Patch
Price: $189
When you need both hands free but refuse to sacrifice style, the Sayulita Backpack from The Sak delivers. Hand-crocheted in a neutral colorway with eye-catching patch detailing, this convertible design features adjustable straps and a detachable hobo handle. You can wear it as a backpack for weekend errands or switch to your shoulder for a more polished look. The drawstring and magnetic snap closure keep everything secure, while the interior pockets mean you won't waste time digging for your keys. Huge plus! Made with recycled Repreve yarn from 28 plastic bottles, it's proof that eco-conscious design doesn't mean compromising on function or style.
Why it's not basic: Convertible versatility meets sustainable materials in a granny-patch motif that feels so fresh.
Shop: The Sak Sayulita Backpack
2. The Sak Los Feliz Large Tote - Bamboo Static
Price: $249
Searching for the perfect oversized tote that doesn't look like everyone else's? Meet the Los Feliz from The Sak. This ultra-slouchy design is hand-crocheted using yarn made from ocean-bound recycled plastics collected through Plastic Bank, meaning every bag helps prevent plastic from entering our oceans. The bamboo static colorway brings subtle, sophisticated texture that pairs with everything in your closet, while leather trim and antique brass hardware add polish. With a roomy interior featuring crochet pockets and a 9-inch drop handle, it's your new go-to for farmers market hauls, beach days, or toting your laptop to a coffee shop.
Why it's not basic: Made from ocean-bound plastic with a slouchy, lived-in silhouette that never goes out of style.
Shop: The Sak Los Feliz Large Tote
3. Clare V. Petit Summer Simple Tote - Black/Cream Crochet Mini Checker
Price: $275
Clare V. brings her signature California-cool aesthetic to crochet with this polished mini tote. The black and cream checkerboard pattern feels graphic and modern, while the compact size (just big enough for your phone, keys, wallet, and sunglasses) makes it perfect for days when you want to travel light. The hidden magnetic closure and detachable crossbody strap give you options—carry it by the leather top handle for a sophisticated look or go hands-free with the strap. Cotton crochet paired with leather details creates an elevated contrast that works for everything from gallery openings to weekend wine tastings.
Why it's not basic: A mini checkerboard pattern and impeccable Clare V. tailoring elevate this beyond typical crochet.
Shop: Clare V. Petit Summer Simple Tote
4. MZ Wallace Crochet Convertible Crossbody
Price: $155
Leave it to MZ Wallace, a fellow B Corp brand committed to sustainability, to reimagine the crochet bag with their signature functionality-first approach. This convertible crossbody brings the brand's famous organizational prowess to a summer-ready silhouette. The camel crochet exterior is trimmed with Italian leather and features silver hardware for an understated luxury feel. Inside, you'll find thoughtful pockets and a detachable pouch to keep small items corralled. The adjustable crossbody strap means you can customize the fit, whether you're wearing it over a chunky sweater or a silk slip dress.
Why it's not basic: MZ Wallace's expert organization meets interesting texture. Plus, you're supporting another B Corp.
Shop: MZ Wallace Crochet Convertible Crossbody
5. America & Beyond Stitch Please Blue Shoulder Bag
Price: $148
Handcrafted with a bright floral crochet pattern in cheerful blues, this bag practically begs you to take it on vacation—or at least pretend you're on one. The soft construction and nickel-finish fittings strike a balance between relaxed and refined, while the royal blue lining adds an unexpected pop of color. The flap closure with a single magnet keeps everything secure without fussy hardware. Fair trade and sustainably made, this is the bag that makes you smile every time you reach for it.
Why it's not basic: Bold floral crochet in saturated blues makes this a colorful statement piece, not a neutral afterthought.
Shop: America & Beyond Stitch Please Blue Shoulder Bag
6. Ann Taylor Crochet Tote Bag
Proof that crochet has officially gone mainstream in the best way possible, Ann Taylor's take on the trend brings polished, office-appropriate style to the category. This structured tote offers the texture and visual interest of crochet while maintaining the clean lines you need for professional settings. It's the bag that works for your 9-to-5 and then transitions seamlessly to happy hour. If you've been hesitant to embrace the crochet trend because you weren't sure it would work with your wardrobe, this is your gateway bag.
Why it's not basic: Structure and polish make this crochet appropriate for the boardroom, not just the beach.
Shop: Ann Taylor Crochet Tote Bag
The Bottom Line
Crochet bags have evolved far beyond their bohemian beach bag origins. Today's hand-crocheted designs prove that sustainable materials, artisan craftsmanship, and elevated style can coexist beautifully. Whether you're drawn to The Sak's commitment to using yarn spun from recycled plastic bottles, Clare V.'s California-cool aesthetic, or MZ Wallace's organizational smarts, there's a crochet bag that fits your lifestyle. Oh, and none of them are basic.
Looking for more crochet styles? Explore The Sak's complete hand crochet collection to discover more sustainably made, artisan-crafted bags.