Cathay Mini Crossbody

The last ride of an original.

The Cathay was one of my most-loved crossbodies for years. But as phones keep getting bigger, I’ve retired this original size in favor of a slightly larger version. These are the final few, and once they’re gone, the Cathay Mini rides off for good.

It’s perfect in its simplicity. The exterior pocket holds any phone, even the Plus and Max sizes. The main compartment fits a card wallet, lipstick, readers, and most standard phones. (A Plus or Max won’t close inside, but it slips easily into the outside pocket.)

Each one is made by hand from bison or cow leather, with its own finishing touch: a longhorn concho, a camo Italian leather pocket, or croc-embossed leather with Swarovski crystal spots. No two are alike. If you see one you love, grab it now.

Measurements

• Height: 7.5"
• Width: 6"
• Depth: 0.25"
• Shoulder drop: 23", adjustable
• Exterior pocket: 6" tall, fits most phones

Who is this bag named for?
I named it for Private Cathay Williams. In 1866, she enlisted in the U.S. Army as “William Cathay” and served in the 38th Infantry, one of the regiments that became known as the Buffalo Soldiers. For nearly two years she passed as a man, until an Army surgeon discovered her secret and she was discharged in 1868. More than 400 women disguised themselves to fight in the Civil War, but Cathay was the first African American woman known to enlist, and the only documented woman to serve in the regular U.S. Army disguised as a man during that era.

Note: These bags carry the original “BRIDGER HOME” maker’s mark, the name I used from 2017 to 2023.