Chain straps on handbags?

[LMMuffet]

I need a new bag that can be worn crossbody, to be used as an everyday bag. I’m a bit picky about the shape (prefer a flatter bag rather than boxy) and it needs to have an outside slip pocket.

I like this one from Lulu Guinness: https://www.luluguinness.com/products/cut-out-lip-issy-grainy-leather-black?variant=41476510515349&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD9AlndDOBVW1dSi4dndE4MHcxt9p&gclid=CjwKCAjw5ImwBhBtEiwAFHDZxyodKg1fspeALnzk3R40MAGq8T82VV-Pk2EBOMzXBtCjygj863baGRoC-XwQAvD_BwE

I’m really unsure about chain straps. Aren’t they rather uncomfortable? Does anyone wear a crossbody bag with a chain strap? Does it dig into your shoulder? (I can have a look in person but obviously that is no substitute for someone who has tried using one everyday when it’s actually has stuff in it!)

I like the look of chain straps. However, after I bought a small Chloe Drew bag back in the day, I realised the design flaw. While the bag itself is small, the leather was heavy, even when empty. Just the weight of the empty leather bag on my collar bone hurt. The only time I used the bag was in winter months, over a coat. And to be honest, for this reason I rarely used it.

A compromise is a chain strap that has leather bits that sit on the shoulders.

I have a few chain bags including a lulu Guinness one . It has variable straps and I tend to use the smaller chain strap rather than the long one anyway .
The other chain strap bags I have are all occasional use and can be
used cross body . I am not sure I would want a chain rather than a leather strap for everyday use as I find them more of a faff rather than practical . I like the aesthetic of them but prefer leather strap cross body for everyday .

I do tend to put lots in my bags including smaller ones and I would also be worried that the chains wouldn't be as sturdy as the leather straps . If you are a more minimalistic person than me and only put in a phone and lipstick then this may not be an issue for you .

Thanks both. I think you have confirmed my fear. Such a shame the same bag can’t be bought with an interchangeable leather strap because it’s otherwise spot on.

That strap doesn't even look attached, though. You can buy leather straps from other manufacturers, or get one made at a decent leather place.

I have a black patent Lulu Guinness bag with a chain , very similar to this, possibly a wee bit bigger and similar shape.to the one you're looking at. I really , really don't like it.

Lulu Guinness black patent chain bag

The chain can be a double chain which makes it a hang from your arm handbag like the late Queen Elizabeth's or pulled to make a single chain for shoulder or cross body. Either way, I just find the feel of it really annoying. I must have had it for at least 15 years and very rarely use it.

Solid chain straps can be uncomfortable, especially if the bag is heavy, as it pulls it down into your skin.

Chain straps with leather woven through the chain does tend to be more comfortable.

I find a good leather strap more comfortable on an everyday cross body bag. The only chain straps I have are on a couple of “going out” bags, that wouldn’t be holding much.