29 ​​Best Makeup Bags 2023

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Selecting your the best makeup bag for you is akin to choosing the best foundation for your skin type. With so many considerations — the size, materials, and organizational features — landing on a makeup bag that keeps your items easy to find and secure is a tall order. While one of the best large makeup bags can be a godsend for a beauty lover, there's actually a wide world of options for cosmetics bags to meet every need, product, and style.

Whether you’re looking for a big makeup bag or a smaller makeup pouch, there's no one-size-fits-all option. Before you begin your hunt, it's important to ask yourself a few questions first. Start with honestly asking yourself whether you are a minimalist or a maximalist. If your routine is precise and streamlined, like say just one of the best lipsticks, eyeliner, and a concealer for acne, you can get away with a mini makeup bag that will hold these smaller items. However, if you’re the type who likes to have options on your person at all times, then a full-on makeup tote or a makeup bag with compartments is likely your best bet. And finally, will you be carrying your a blush brush along with your favorite powder? If so, you’ll need a makeup bag with a brush holder. Otherwise, the delicate bristles will be vulnerable to friction and could become frizzy and brittle, or even worse, break entirely.

To find the best organizational makeup bags, the best designer makeup bags, and the best pouches, we spoke with a slew of experts. Makeup artists Molly R. Stern, Lisa Aharon, and Kim Baker shared their expert advice from years of working with celebrity clients. Founders of New York-based organization company Twice as Organized, Michaela and Zoe Katz, as well as founder of Imagine It Done, Lisa Jacobs, divulged organizational expertise. Ahead, find our curated list of the best makeup bags to organize any size stash. Plus, you’ll discover specific tips for how to find the right bag for you and the exact features to look for.

Best Makeup Bags With Compartments

Best Designer Makeup Bags

Best Makeup Pouches

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If you’re looking for a bag to handle holding your entire skincare routine or makeup for a full face, the Kusshi makeup bag is definitely the way to go. On average, it holds anywhere from 25-30 products, and if any spills occur, can be machine washed without any issue. "It has little pockets to protect and organize delicate items and stands upright even though the bag is soft," explains Aharon. It's easy to throw in your tote bag and take with you on the go. "I love how wide it opens," Stern adds.

Editor testing and review notes: "This Kusshi compact cutie is where I store my daily makeup essentials. The interior is surprisingly spacious and can fit larger bottles and hair brushes, even with an interior zip compartment and multiple pockets for makeup, which makes this travel makeup bag ideal for quickly spotting your organized beauty goods on the go. Plus, I use the makeup bag with the navy exterior and hot pink interior, so every time I open it, the pop of bright color makes me smile."

courtesy of Nordstrom

Kusshi Vacation Makeup Bag $89 Buy Now at Nordstrom

Béis, from actress Shay Mitchell, has built a reputation for creating innovative and stylish products that allow you to stay as organized as possible, and this cosmetics case is no different. In addition to the body of the bag, the bag comes with a removable, zippered sleeve designed for you to keep your makeup brushes protected against your other products. Also included is a mirror that stands on its own for quick touchups. The body is a hold-all in a wipeable material, where we recommend storing larger, TSA-approved bottles, deodorant, and other items.

What reviewers say: "I love this! The shape is great and everything fits. You can easily see what you need so it stays neatly within the case when traveling."

courtesy of Nordstrom

Béis The Makeup Bag $68 Buy Now at Nordstrom

With pockets and pouches galore, the Stephanie Johnson Rosewood Cognac Jenny Travel Cosmetics Case will keep you organized at home and on the road. The two larger compartments are roomy enough to hold larger skin care products like your best skin-tightening face cream and best body lotion, and the removable pouches allow you to keep essentials neat and easy to reach. The lower compartment is just the right size to secure your best eyeshadow palettes without allowing them to shake around.

What reviewers say: "I prefer to use a train case for it cosmetics when I travel. This one looks so elegant. It's roomy and will hold so many items. The separate brush case adds even more functionality."

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Stephanie Johnson Rosewood Cognac Jenny Train Cosmetics Case $103 Buy Now at Nordstrom

Sephora, a one-stop shop for all things beauty, has created a nylon makeup organizer to hold everything you’ve picked up. With multiple compartments that are also removable, you’re able to customize this bag to suit your needs. Despite an all-black interior, the organizational opportunities for this bag allow you to find products in a pinch, whether you’re a professional or not. A top handle helps keeps products from shifting, and this makeup bag with a brush holder keeps your bristles pristine.

What reviewers say: "WOW so this is way more money than I’ve ever spent for a makeup bag. By like a lot. But I had a cheap one from Amazon and it wasn't doing it for me. I just got a new job and decided to splurge. This bag is much bigger than I expected. I love the organizational concept. It's well worth the money."

courtesy of Sephora

Sephora Pack It All Organizer Makeup Bag $45 Buy Now at Sephora

The best travel makeup bag for families, this mighty L.L. Bean bag holds literally everything. With its multi-zip compartments, this bag will hold everything from everyone – including stuff you’ve picked up on your travels. Additionally, L.L. Bean has tested this bag to make sure it's the strongest one on the market. With lining made to stop spills in their tracks and a detached shower caddy and mirror, there's no excuse to not look your best whilst traveling.

Editor testing and review notes: "I’m a maximalist when it comes to skin, hair, and body care, and L.L. Bean's fold-up toiletry bag has been my go-to travel companion since college. Its design is pure genius, but maybe the best part is that the inside lining stops liquids from leaking out. I speak from experience: My shampoo exploded and not one drop got out of the bag."

courtesy of LL Bean

L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Makeup Bag $45 Buy Now at L.L. Bean

Made in a full grain leather that protects against travel damage and scratches, this Leatherology small travel case is made specifically to hold travel-sized bottles, but has options available in bigger sizes for those who want more space. With a water-resistant interior and mesh pockets to separate your makeup, it's both built for performance and looks. Available to be customized with embossing this train case is one of the best monogrammed makeup bags you can find. Even if you plan on solely keeping it on your vanity table, this train case is truly a work of art.

What reviewers say: "I travel a lot for work and have never found a cosmetics case I liked. I bought this one for the 12th anniversary of my company as a gift to myself and I love it. Best gift ever!"

courtesy of Leatherology

Leatherology Small Train Case Makeup Bag $125 Buy Now at leatherology

"Make sure that your makeup bag has enough storage space for all of your items," advises Michaela and Zoe Katz, and thanks to BagSmart's large size and multiple compartments and storage opportunities, it should do the trick. This BagSmart case comes with inner dividers to ensure space for your best hair styling tools and brushes as well as makeup. It's the best large makeup bag on the market.

What reviewers say: "This bag is large, extremely well made, and it looks great too. It has lots of inner pockets and the pocketed dividers in the main compartment can be reconfigured since they attach with velcro. It's amazing how much I fit in it and still manage to keep it organized!"

courtesy of Amazon

BagSmart Large Makeup Bag $17 Buy Now at Amazon

"Jillian Dempsey makes a fabulous makeup bag with two pockets, so you can separate your smaller items from your bigger products," says Stern. Celebrity makeup artist (and wife to McDreamy), Jillian Dempsey's makeup pouch has two large compartments, plus a smaller exterior space for you to stash tweezers, lash glue, and a lash curler. As it's made of nylon and super durable, this large makeup bag can be machine washed if spills occur, or wiped down if some excess powder escapes a compact.

courtesy of Amazon

Jillian Dempsey Large Makeup Bag $45 Buy Now at Amazon

If you’re someone looking for a makeup bag that encourages custom storage, this Relavel bag is for you. You can move the dividers around to create a storage system that meets your needs. This waterproof bag is a great option for those who are accident-prone. Even better, the upper compartment is specifically for brushes, with a fold-down flap that protects them from any friction while in transit.

What reviewers say: "I saw a review for this on TikTok and I knew I needed to buy it for my upcoming trip! I’ve been looking into durable makeup bags/cases for traveling and I loved everything about this! It's super lightweight (with and without my makeup in it) and I was easily able to fit it into my carry-on and duffel bag! It also fits a surprisingly large amount of makeup (I had a few empty slots) and I’m super impressed!"

courtesy of Amazon

Relavel Travel Makeup Train Case Makeup Bag $20 Buy Now at Amazon

Made for performance, the WellInsulated makeup case is the right choice for those who want to store their skincare routine and protect it from intense temperatures. "It's easy to clean, weather-resistant, and even doubles as a lunch bag," says Aharon. Available in sweet pink vegan leather, the interior is also reflective, so you’re able to find what you want in a snap.

What reviewers say: "I’m already a huge fan of WellInsulated. I’ve been eyeing the gold for a while and am so glad I bought it! The color is beyond beautiful in person and I’ve put all my supplements and medications in it and now leave it on my kitchen counter. Makes me so happy just to look at it!"

courtesy of Neiman Marcus

WellInsulated Performance Makeup Bag $98 Buy Now at Neiman Marcus

If you’re looking for a more professional cosmetics case in a hard shell to keep everything secure, this Caboodles one is fab. With features like a flip lid that uncovers a mirror and multiple compartments for both big and small items, it's great for when counter or mirror space is limited. A secure clasp ensures that as you use the top handle, your items won't topple out. Bonus points for its nostalgia factor.

What reviewers say: "My makeup bag was getting way overcrowded and usually have to dump everything out to find what I’m looking for. So decided to purchase this item instead. Now all my supplies are organized and I don't have to rumble or get frustrated while trying to find a simple thing like eyelash glue."

courtesy of Amazon

Caboodles Twilight Disco On the Go Cosmetic Case $19 Buy Now at Amazon

This hanging travel bag is easy to travel with and is highly rated by Aharon. "It's easy to organize, pop onto the back of a door, and is lightweight and water-resistant," she says. It's ideal when you’re traveling with little ones or in staying in shared quarters, as its interior allows you to keep things organized, even when counter space is lacking. The interior removable pouch allows you to keep your medicine, makeup, or other essentials in their own space, ideal if you need to throw them in a bag for the day. A water-resistant interior further adds protection while traveling, especially if you’ve ever ended up at your destination with shampoo all over your toiletry bag.

What reviewers say: "A hanging toiletry bag is one of my favorite items to pack…I’ve used another name-brand hanging toiletry bag previously, and it didn't fit everything I needed until I saw yours. I’ll be purchasing these for my children's go-bag luggage."

courtesy of Away Travel

Away Hanging Travel Makeup Bag $75 Buy Now at Away

With Prada re-introducing their iconic nylon across their small leather goods and accessories collections, this makeup bag is both sustainable and on-trend. As nylon is water resistant, it will block any spills from seeping into your bigger bag, plus it wipes down with ease. It's a fit for someone who is craving a bit of understated luxury, and its a detachable wristlet strap allows it to double as a night-out bag in a pinch.

courtesy of Farfetch

Prada Triangle Logo Makeup Bag $575 Buy Now

Stella McCartney pioneered leather alternatives in the luxury fashion space, and this Alter Faux-Leather Cosmetic Case features innovative materials that feel just like leather to touch. The petite pouch is an ideal size for short trips or for stowing essentials in your slouchy bag or your designer tote bag. It features a full zip for easy access to what's inside, and the perforated logo detail on the outer is subtle and chic — it's one of the best vegan makeup bags out there.

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Stella McCartney Alter Faux-Leather Cosmetic Case $550 Buy Now at Neiman Marcus

Stella McCartney Alter Faux-Leather Cosmetic Case $550 Buy Now at FarFetch

If you’re looking for a makeup case to add a bit of luxury to your everyday life, this Gucci one is calling your name. Given the smaller size, it's made to keep just the essentials on hand. It's also perfect for when you’d like to do touch-ups, but don't want to dig a larger bag out every time you want to reapply or blot. As it's made from canvas, it's going to be strong and sturdy for years to come, even as your makeup needs change.

courtesy of Gucci

Gucci Ophidia Makeup Bag $470 Buy Now at Gucci

If you’re looking for a makeup bag to hold your essentials and a little more than standard ones do, this one from Coach is great to consider. A polished, pebbled leather means it's more resistant to scratches and damage than others and it can withstand being mixed in with your work or gym essentials. The unique dome shape allows you to pack several taller bottles as well, so you’re not stuck with just travel-size bottles of dry shampoo and perfumes.

What reviewers say: "This bag is so much better in person and Coach should really upload a few more photos of the bag opened. I love that this makeup bag stands on its own. The leather is smooth and it holds the perfect amount of makeup one would take on a trip or on the go. Bottles of foundation and setting spray fit perfectly. I highly recommend this bag and would absolutely purchase more in different colors!"

Courtesy of Coach

Coach Julienne Cosmetic Case 17 $75 Buy Now at Coach

This Chloé Sense Linen Canvas and Leather Cosmetics Pouch is a gorgeous everyday bag to house your makeup. The pouch features a luxurious calfskin leather trim with an embroidered logo, plus gold hardware. Although this cute makeup bag doesn't feature any inner pockets, the medium size of the pouch means you won't have to dig around to find what you’re looking for. The top zip closure and flat base details make it equal parts pretty and practical, and the colorway is timeless.

Courtesy of Chloe

Chloé Sense Linen Canvas & Leather Cosmetics Pouch $510 Buy Now at Nordstrom

The Bao Bao Issey Miyake Panelled Make Up Bag is a great choice for those on the market for a designer makeup bag that doesn't cost you an arm and a leg. You’ll get the brand's signature geometric paneled design plus an easy-to-clean nylon lining, so you don't need to stress about spills. This cool makeup bag is perfect for your best lipsticks, best face serums, or travel-sized skin care products.

Courtesy of FarFetch

Bao Bao Issey Miyake Panelled Make Up Bag $253 Buy Now at FarFetch

If you’re looking to splurge on something for yourself or go in on a group gift for mom, the Saint Laurent YSL Quilted Leather Cosmetic Bag is it. The quilted makeup bag features the same luxurious materials you’ll find in Saint Laurent's best designer handbags — high-quality leather, durable hardware, and beautiful detailing. Plus, the case expands on the side seams to fit everything you need for the day, and the internal slip pocket is perfect for smaller essentials like hair ties or bobby pins.

Courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman

Saint Laurent YSL Quilted Leather Cosmetic Bag $825 Buy Now at Bergdorf Goodman

Tumi is known for creating luggage and travel accessories that maintain their quality for years of consistent packing, stuffing, and rattling in an overhead bin. Suffice to say that this Belden Cosmetic Pouch will last you ages. This pouch is the perfect size to keep your things organized within larger suitcases or your best shoulder bag. It's large enough to hold all of your makeup and toiletries, and the durable build keeps the most delicate of products (like glass containers or powder makeup compacts) intact during travel.

Courtesy of Tumi

Tumi Belden Cosmetic Pouch $125 Buy Now at Tumi

Dagne Dover is known for their practical and super-organized bags, and their makeup bag is no different. Made in the same, water-resistant neoprene that their weekenders are also made from, this versatile bag works just as well at the beach as it does at the gym. Inside, you’ll find a detachable mesh pouch that can hold your essentials, along with interior loops to hold your bottles and liquids upright so they don't accidentally spill en route. The sides are also expandable, which allows you to customize the size, adding more space when needed and decreasing space when you don't.

courtesy of Nordstrom

Dagne Dover Small Hunter Water-Resistant Makeup Bag $45 Buy Now at Nordstrom

"Customers should look to see if there is an easy-to-clean lining," advises Jacobs, which this Didida does. It's made from a waterproof fabric and comes with a detachable cosmetic pouch so you can separate your makeup from your skincare and toiletries, making it simple to grab what you need. "If the makeup bag doesn't have an easy-to-clean lining, you will just end up having to rebuy bags every time they get dirty or stained," warns Jacobs.

What reviewers say: "As a package of 3 with varied sizes, they are great! I use them for medications, one for daytime meds, one for evening meds, and one for cosmetics. I love the color and softness!"

courtesy of Amazon

Didida Waterproof Cosmetic Travel Makeup Bags $18 Buy Now at Amazon

One of the best travel cosmetic cases around, this Calpak bag "comes in nice colors and makes an awesome travel makeup bag as well," explains Baker. If you’re someone who likes to be reminded of what they’ve brought (and maybe forgot), this bag offers organization with an interior mesh pocket for smaller items. Two separate slots allow you to section out your products so if something splashes in one, your entire collection won't be compromised. Additionally, as it's made in a PVC material, Aharon notes that it's "super easy to spot what you need and keep clean and rinse out."

What reviewers say: "You can literally fit everything you could possibly need for travel into this case – shower stuff, hair stuff, a 10-step skincare regimen, etc. The case is made really well and I can tell it will look just as good in years to come as it does now."

courtesy of Calpak

Calpak Clear Makeup Bag $95 Buy Now at Calpak

"An oldie but goodie is the legendary Little Brown Makeup Bag by Bloomingdale's. It's not clear, but it's a good one and it's only $16," Baker says. It's a super option to hold your essential day-to-day products, and it also makes for a chic gift. Additionally, this little pouch is multi-functional, and can hold receipts, loose coins or whatever else you’d like.

What reviewers say: "This is adorable when you get one of the brown bags to go along with it. I get asked about the cosmetic bag and medium brown bag all the time."

courtesy of Bloomingdales

Bloomingdale's Little Brown Makeup Bag $18 Buy Now at Bloomingdale's

"Rothy's are washable and come in great sizes," Stern shares. Available in a set of two (large and small), the Rothy's set is made from recycled marine plastic and its threading was created from single-use plastic bottles. It's durable, sustainable and can be thrown in the washing machine for a refresh, making them a good choice for teens and young adults. The smaller size is perfect for day-to-day essentials, while the larger one can travel in your carry-on.

What reviewers say: "The color coordination is lovely, the sizing is perfect, and it is durable enough to withstand many trips to come. I am very happy with my purchase and will likely purchase another for cosmetic storage usage."

courtesy of Rothys

Rothy's The Vanity Set Makeup Bags $175 Buy Now at Rothy's

Nothing is more luxurious than a set of leather travel cases, and this set from Cuyana is available in an array of colors. Crafted in pebbled leather, the Cuyana set is strong and less prone to showing wear and tear, meaning you can toss it around in any bag or suitcase with abandon. The interior is made of microsuede, which is super easy to clean. You can also feel great about shopping for this bag — Cuyana is part of the Leather Working Group, an organization ensuring sustainable practices are used in the tanning and development of their leather.

courtesy of Cuyana

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Makeup Bag $128 Buy Now

A cult favorite, Glossier's Beauty Bag is made in coated cotton with a detachable interior pocket in a smooth felt lining that's soft to the touch. It's large enough for full-size bottles to stand completely up on their own and with four interior pockets on the side, you can store small tools and brushes safely. There are also two zippered pockets on the exterior for you to place your immediate go-to's on the outside.

What reviewers say: "This bag is so cute and very functional. I have some of the serums from this brand and they fit perfectly in the pockets. I was easily able to fit all of my makeup products in here with a little extra space. This bag is perfect for packing for vacations or just everyday use. If you are thinking about getting this bag… do it!"

courtesy of Glossier

Glossier The Makeup Bag $35 Buy Now at Glossier

"I still love my Sonia Kashuk clear makeup bags that are affordable and come in a variety of sizes available at Target," Baker tells us. Its metallic zipper closure spans the entire top of the bag, so you’ll have no issue fitting in items of various sizes. Made with triangular sides that gradually get larger as you reach the base, this bag lets bottles stand upright or brushes to lay along the bottom. If you’re someone who craves interior pockets and organizing, this bag may not be for you, but as an everyday, easy makeup bag, this works to hold your must-haves.

What reviewers say: "I bought this for a vacation to put all my toiletry items in. I’ve used it twice in my carry-on and TSA has never said it's too big. Fits a lot of items & seems sturdy!"

courtesy of Target

Sonia Kashuk Square Clutch Makeup Bag $10 Buy Now at Target

"For ladies who love to budget shop, the Anrui travel bag is great as a makeup and travel bag," Baker says. If you’re looking for more organization in your suitcase or prefer to break up products by necessity, this set may be right for you. As they’re waterproof and see-through, they’re easy to eyeball. Its size allows it to stand up independently, another plus for anyone with delicate items or little ones underfoot. With over 1,000 five-star reviews, it's a top selling Amazon makeup bag.

What reviewers say: "Just returned from a long multi-city trip and am glad I had this bag. Its sturdy shape allows it to stand up firmly in your carry-on, making it easy to locate and remove for security checkpoints. This feature also allows you to use it on bathroom sinks; it stands up and you can easily see all your products at a glance."

courtesy of Amazon

Anrui Clear Makeup Bag $10 Buy Now at Amazon

You can find various kinds of makeup bags, so choosing one boils down to what you’ll use it for. "People often use makeup bags for many different purposes: to bring to work, for traveling, to keep in a locker at a gym, etc. It is important to pick a makeup bag based on these needs," says Jacobs. "If you’re like me, and not a bag lady, I only need one for my purse and one for travel," notes Baker. "It's important to know the size of the makeup products and the amount of makeup you want to put in the bag," the Katz sisters explain. "This will help you decide what kind of makeup bag you need, whether it's large vs small, many pockets vs no pockets, or vertical vs horizontal." Below are three popular makeup bag categories to shop.

Special features and design details can make or break a cosmetic case. Aharon always goes for a bag with tiny compartments. "It's nice to be able to tuck your tweezers and other delicate little things into a side zipper or pouch," she says, adding that a durable bag can help protect products. Here are the top features to decide on when shopping.

Size, durability, and price are three important factors to keep in mind when you’re selecting a makeup bag. But fabric is by far the most important consideration: If you can't travel without your favorite liquid highlighter and best cream blush, an easy-to-clean material like nylon is key. If your case is going to sit on your vanity, then a pretty leather bag might be up your alley. Here are the most common fabrics and materials you can choose from.

No matter which style of makeup bag you choose, you want something that's simple to clean, according to Stern. She says that easy-to-wash materials are ideal, while Aharon notes that "fabrics that can be tossed in the wash or safely sprayed with rubbing alcohol are key." PVC makeup bags are the easiest to clean; you can simply wipe them down with an antibacterial wipe or damp paper towel. Small cloth makeup bags are a great option because you can simply toss them in the washing machine; same goes for terry cloth makeup bags and canvas makeup bags. Most leather makeup bags — particularly designer options — require professional cleaning. Pack liquid and oil-based products carefully, as these can permanently stain your bag if they leak.

Your purse's makeup bag only has the essentials for your daily needs, whether it's for touch-ups or for moving your look from day to night. We recommend:

Michaela and Zoe Katz are the founders of New York-based Twice as Organized, a lifestyle organization company offering full-service in-home organization.

Lisa Jacobs is the founder and CEO of Imagine It Done, a New York-based exclusive organization company, providing services to clients in the New York tri-state area.

Kim Baker is a New York-based commercial makeup artist and former Wilhelmina Model who specializes in working with celebrities and models. She is the founder of Glamazon Beauty.

Lisa Aharon is a New York-based, Vancouver-born makeup artist. She has worked with Florence Welch and other celebrity clientele such as Rachel Brosnahan, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Camila Mendes. Aharon has worked with major brands and photographers such as Alexander Wang, Ralph Lauren, Annie Leibowitz, and Jurgen Teller.

Molly R. Stern is a celebrity makeup artist based in Los Angeles. She has worked with celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon, Maya Rudolph, Lily Collins, and Nicole Kidman on the red carpet and editorial opportunities.

Fernando Snellings is a Washington, DC-based freelance writer, focusing on fashion and lifestyle. Snellings wrote the original version of this best makeup bag article, interviewing experts, scouring options, and cross-checking reviews to ensure the top options are on our list. Snellings wrote the 2022 version of this makeup bags guide.

Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She's spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She's tested hundreds of products during her time as a beauty editor, including many a makeup bag. Sullivan wrote the updated version of this best makeup bag story with the newly released product picks for 2023 and more helpful advice on selecting the best cosmetic bag for your needs.

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