After years of using my Mansur Gavriel bag as my go-to for quick errands, I decided it was time for an upgrade. I wanted a black, casual yet stylish mid-range bag—something I could easily grab from my closet without a second thought. After an extensive search, I discovered the stunning Soeur Small Bellissima leather crossbody bag, and the rest is history. It was truly love at first sight!
If you’re not familiar with Soeur, let me give you a quick introduction. Soeur is a contemporary French brand renowned for its chic, timeless ready-to-wear and accessories collections. Think of it as being in the same league as Sandro or Maje, two other popular French brands. During my search, I also considered options like Polène, but I was looking for something more understated. Polène bags are quite trendy right now, and I wanted something that would feel unique and timeless. The Soeur Bellissima fit the bill perfectly.
This bag quickly became one of my favorites because it’s so easy to style and instantly elevates any outfit in the most effortless way. Despite its small size, it’s surprisingly roomy. The three compartments and additional zippered pocket make organizing my belongings a breeze, adding to its functionality. Plus, the adjustable strap allows for some customization, though it isn’t particularly long.
The Bellissima’s design is classy and sophisticated, yet it has enough unique elements to make it visually interesting. The metal closure serves as the bag’s focal point. While it felt a little tricky to open the first time, I got the hang of it quickly—it’s now super easy to use. As for craftsmanship, it’s truly exceptional. Made from full leather, this bag is built to last for years.
The Bellissima bag comes in two sizes, small and medium, and is available in a range of gorgeous colors. I opted for the small size, which comfortably fits my essentials and then some. Choosing the color was tough—I debated between black and chocolate brown but ultimately went with classic black for its versatility.
The Downsides
If I had to point out any cons, the strap length might be one. Even at its longest adjustment, the strap remains relatively short. Personally, I like bags that sit higher, so this wasn’t an issue for me. However, it’s worth considering if you prefer longer straps. Another factor is that the bag only comes with gold hardware, so if you prefer silver, that might be a drawback. Lastly, the leather is smooth and delicate, which means it’s prone to scratches. This bag isn’t available in other leather finishes, so extra care is needed to maintain its beauty.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Soeur Small Bellissima crossbody bag is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a stylish, well-crafted, and practical everyday bag with an understated elegance.
Here are my top color picks:
