Helen Mirren proves cross-body bags are best for women on the go

Whether she’s hopping on a plane, popping out for a coffee or stunning us with her ageless beauty on the red carpet, Dame Helen Mirren is our go-to fashion icon, proving time and time again just how effortlessly stylish she is.

One of Helen’s favourite accessories has to be the ever-practical cross-body bag, which she’s worn over and over in different sizes and colours in the past five or so years. With the help of the paparazzi, the 75-year-old has shown us exactly how to style the accessory and give our wardrobe an easy, modern upgrade. Thanks Helen!

Looking elegant after a flight, Helen paired this steel-grey cross-body bag with a matching faux-fur stole and classic black suit. While we may not have the matching faux-fur on hand, Helen shows how you can make your bag pop against a neutral background.

A little bigger than most cross-body bags, this size is perfect for fitting all the essentials and makes a great carry-on option for flights or rail journeys.

Nipping out for a coffee, Helen once again shows us how to brighten up an outfit with some well-chosen accessories. Pictured in Soho, the stylish actress gives her neutral outfit a boost with a vibrant pair of pink shoes and a silver cross-body bag, small enough to be used as a clutch.

Blue and red accessories give this black-and-white outfit exactly the pop of colour and modern vibe it needs. Red and blue may be almost opposite on the colour wheel (a no-no combo once upon a time), but today it gives this casual look a stylish upgrade that’s very on-trend. No stranger to the spotlight, Helen often opts for bold colours on the red carpet, but shows us here how we can do the same for a more everyday look.

Sometimes Helen shows us exactly how normal and relatable she is. Sans make-up and red carpet glamour, the 75-year-old arrives at LAX looking natural and relaxed, and styling her casual flight attire with flat black boots and a cross-body bag large enough to fit all the in-flight essentials.