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20 Oct

15 Best Designer Apple Watch Bands – WWD

15 Best Designer Apple Watch Bands – WWD

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Technology and fashion are in sync greater than ever before — just take a gander at Gucci’s Metaverse storefront or contemplate the fascinating designs featured on the first-ever 2023 AI Fashion Week. In on a regular basis life, nonetheless, probably the most ubiquitous example of the merging worlds is the stylized way we accessorize the miniature computers on our wrists with one of the best designer Apple Watch bands.

Considering we take our Apple Watches from sweaty workouts to wedding receptions, it’s comprehensible why we might wish to spend a little bit extra on a more durable and trendy wrist accessory. Plus, a luxury Apple Watch band can coordinate seamlessly with our dressier office clothes and elevate the look of our casual, cozy sweaters. The growing popularity of designer Apple Watch bands has only pushed brands like Kate Spade, Tory Burch, and Michael Kors to create quite a few iterations of the style in order that we are able to swap out the strap depending on our mood or what occasion entails. For instance, a whimsical-printed silicone band may complete your activewear attire, whereas a gold-toned chain link bracelet could be higher fitted to a proper dress. Yet, you’ll be able to never go incorrect slipping on a sleek, classic leather band that may match a neatly tailored fall blazer or practically the rest in your closet.

What’s more, designer Apple Watch bands often boast higher craftsmanship and using higher-quality materials, meaning they’ll last more and remain in fine condition as they stay strapped to your wrist 24/7. Still, one size most definitely doesn’t fit all. There are a whole lot of aspects to think about when selecting one of the best designer Apple Watch band, like how often and where you’ll wear it and whether you seek any special features —think: water-resistant materials. Whatever you desire, discover below one of the best designer Apple Watch bands to buy straight away. 


Top Designer Apple Watch Bands of 2023

Michael Kors Apple Watch Gold Tone Stainless Steel & Tortoise Bracelet

Best Tortoiseshell Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Chrome steel and acetate
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
  • Colorways: Tortoise
  • Special features: Deployant buckle clasp
  • Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
  • Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars

Few patterns are more charming or versatile than the timeless, warm-toned tortoiseshell print. Michael Kors takes the classic design and runs with it here to make it wholly unique to the brand. The band boasts glossy gold accents and a neatly displayed MK logo where the bracelet connects with the watch so as to add a little bit of glamor to the look. On a design note, we appreciate the way it’s unlikely that the watch will slip off your wrist because the deployant buckle closure keeps the watch securely in your wrist (even when it does turn into unclasped, you’re unlikely to lose it).

What testers say: “This band shouldn’t be only beautiful but very durable and simple to clasp on and off with the button. I get so many compliments on it.”

Price at time of publish: $150

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Tory Burch Eleanor 20mm Apple Watch Watchband

Best Gold Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Chrome steel with gold tone plate
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
  • Colorways: Gold
  • Special features: Three adjustable links
  • Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
  • Neiman Marcus Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars

Whether she gives tweed suit sets micro hemlines or stitches cargo pants-style pockets on trim pairs of labor trousers, Tory Burch has a prowess for turning classic, sophisticated women’s wear into contemporary fashion pieces, and this tasteful watchband isn’t any exception. Just like the brand’s highly sought-after ballet flats, the link bracelet has an understated elegance that displays simply enough sparkle to attract attention to your wrist without stealing the conversation away from the remainder of your outfit. The watch’s modest size and universal gold-toned colorway tout unlimited versatility so you could keep it clasped on at work in your best lace dress or while sipping champagne in a cocktail gown. It also had three clasps to regulate the sizing as needed, which makes it an equally functional pick too. 

What testers say: “This watch band is the proper weight and size and pairs nicely with my gold jewelry for fall. Highly recommend!”

Price at time of publish: $175

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Ted Baker Shimmer Gold Mesh 20mm Apple Watch Watchband

Best Mesh Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Chrome steel and gold tone plate
  • Size compatibility: 38/40mm 
  • Colorways: Gold
  • Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
  • Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

Done right, a sublime mesh moment might be your ticket to the understated, quiet luxury appeal fashion aficionados laud over and celebrities like Jane Fonda and Kate Moss so effortlessly embody. And, make no mistake, Ted Baker sticks the landing. The design even includes a delicate row of crystal embellishments that frame either fringe of your Apple Watch to set it leaps and bounds above an easy solid-colored band. Simply put, the watch just looks lavish and we are able to see it accessorizing a night gown higher than a few of our favourite chunky earrings.

Price at time of publish: $104

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Lacoste Apple Watch Silicone Strap

Best Designer Apple Watch Band for Running

  • Materials: Silicone
  • Size compatibility: 42/44mm
  • Colorways: Blue, Black
  • Special features: Water-resistant
  • Amazon’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
  • Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

Lacoste built its brand on the short flick of a tennis racquet and the thought you’ll be able to look stunning while playing the game. So naturally, the French designer crafted an Apple Watch Band that may withstand some sweat and maintains a sexy, cheeky design. The silicone material is soft, lightweight, and thin, making it comfortable to wear in quite a lot of situations. Not to say, it’s water-resistant and simple to wipe clean after a very intense jog. With a conventional pin buckle and 6 holes, you won’t experience any trouble adjusting the dimensions if you happen to need it strapped more tightly when on a run or looser for on a regular basis wear.   

What testers say: “Looks exactly just like the picture and it matches well. It is definitely connected to my watch… I wore it while playing tennis and didn’t have any problems. Very happy with this purchase.”

Price at time of publish: $75

Courtesy of Amazon

Kate Spade Latest York Interchangeable Silicone Band

Best Printed Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Polyurethane
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
  • Colorways: Black Floral, Black/White Dot, Blue, Pink Glitter, + more
  • Amazon’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
  • Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

There’s all the time something a bit mischievous a few Kate Spade design (we didn’t forget the coveted metro card clutch), so naturally, its Apple Watch bands emanate the identical playful feel. This brand offers the bracelet in 10 funky colorways that ooze personality with their smatterings of citrus lemons and florals, cheeky animal-printed stripes, and a set of playful polka dots. Even higher, the silicone band is lightweight and versatile, so it won’t dig into your wrists as you showcase your latest arm candy all day. Still, for all of the fun we’re having selecting between the fanciful patterns, the slim, sleek silhouette keeps the general look polished. 

What testers say: “Classy, casual and pretty multi function! I prefer narrower bands but this one is ideal.”

Price at time of publish: $68

Courtesy of Amazon

Olivia Burton Celestial Leather 20mm Apple Watch Watchband

Best Embellished Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Leather, goldtone plate, and crystal
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm 
  • Colorways: Black, blush
  • Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
  • Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

We hitched our wagon to a star (or should we are saying a few them) when picking this watch as one in all our favourite Apple Watch bands. The elegant addition of celestial charms is certainly recognizable, but you won’t be hard-pressed to search out something to wear the watch with because the band is sufficiently subtle to maintain from appearing overly ostentatious. Moreover, the band is thin and is available in two neutral-toned colorways, which, for an embellished option, helps keep the general look super versatile. Sure, these features are an exquisite approach to dress up your jeans and sneakers, but this band may also go together with dressy attire, too.

What testers say: “This watch band is just gorgeous!! Easy and stylish. Love, love, love!!”

Price at time of publish: $125

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Lagos Smart Blue Caviar Ceramic & Stainless Steel 20mm Apple Watch

Best Stainless Steel Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Ceramic and stainless-steel
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/42/44mm
  • Colorways: Blue 
  • Special features: Push-button box-clasp closure
  • Nordstrom’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
  • Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

There’s luxury, after which there’s Lagos, whose trademark Caviar beads dazzle us each time. The designer crafts a few of one of the best minimalist jewelry, and yet again, we’re drawn to the brand’s hypnotizing ceramic trademark design detail, which, on this case, frames a Santorini-blue band and stops on either side of the logo-embossed clasp. The result’s a fantastic, exceptionally gorgeous accessory you could be tempted to pass down as an heirloom to the subsequent generation of Apple users. It’s noticeable but not too flashy, that are qualities we all the time seek in an investment piece.

What testers say: “Gorgeous. Like it. The band is stunning and goes with the whole lot.”

Price at time of publish: $1,100

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Missoni Fabric Zigzag Apple Watch Band/24MM

Best Multicolored Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Textile
  • Size compatibility: 44mm and 45mm
  • Colorways: Multi
  • Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars

Deviating from a sea of neutral-toned colorways, the Missoni Apple Watch band features punchy blues, oranges, and yellows that jump off the accessory in an appealing chevron pattern. The multi-dimensional effect is the posh Italian brand’s calling card and nods to its busy graphic-printed dresses and abstract knitwear. Upon further examination, we are able to confirm its use of mixed materials — woven canvas, and smooth calf-skin leather — solidifies this as a pick for anyone who enjoys adding an inkling of caprice to their outfits. But, it sticks with tradition in some ways, by choosing an Ardillon buckle, a typical and convenient clasp amongst most watch bands, that matches into nine notch options and offers you loads of wiggle room for fitting it to your wrist.

Price at time of publish: $150

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Coach Leather & Chain Link Apple Watch Strap

Best Chain Link Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Chrome steel with leather threading
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41mm
  • Colorways: Gold/brown, Silver/black
  • Special features: Foldover clasp closure, ionic plated thin gold steel
  • Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars

Coach is one in all the highest designer handbag brands. Even if you happen to’re not a Gen-Zer who’s stowed away their mom’s Coach Tabby Bag from the ‘70s, most of us can agree that the brand’s recent resurgence amongst 20-something consumers is undoubtedly as a consequence of its enduring designs. True to form, with its soft saddle-brown leather interwoven between a glossy gold band, this Apple Watch band won’t find yourself in a trend graveyard by 12 months’s end. Luckily, this hardware is made to last, too. The design includes a sturdy foldover clasp so you’ll be able to easily slip it on and off, and a durable ionic plating finish that won’t scuff or scratch easily.

What testers say: “This band is made thoroughly. It’s easy to regulate and clasp. It looks good dressed up or dressed down so no need to repeatedly change out your band. Like it!”

Price at time of publish: $175

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Shinola Black Alligator Strap for Apple Watch

Best Black Apple Designer Watch Band

  • Materials: Leather
  • Size compatibility: 38/40mm and 42/44mm
  • Colorways: Black
  • Special features: Leather cut and sewn within the U.S.
  • Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars

The exemplary craftsmanship that embodies any Shinola product distinguishes this pick from a sea of black bands offered by other retailers. And, we are able to confirm its products are definitely worth the investment —these high-quality leather goods have a protracted life ahead of them. The brand is regarded for under using one of the best materials that age gracefully and soften beautifully over time, as a substitute of pilling or scuffing along the best way. Moreover, between the timeless look of crocodile leather and its slim silhouette, you’ll be able to match the band to any occasion or outfit, and it’ll never look misplaced. The stainless-steel buckle is one other bonus, because the universal finish blends discreetly with whatever accessories you pair beside it.

Price at time of publish: $255

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Michele Silicone Wrapped Stainless Steel Apple Watch Bracelet

Most Comfortable Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Silicone-wrapped 
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41/ and 42/44/45/49mm 
  • Colorways: Lilac, fog, + more
  • Special features: Interchangeable connector 
  • Neiman Marcus Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
  • Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars

Planning to wear your watch when you work, exercise, and run errands? It’s best to go for a cloth like silicone that may flex along with your movements. Still, designer watchmaker Michele ensures there’s loads of fashion incorporated into this functional watch. The brand offers the strap in soft, dreamy colorways like lilac and a dusky rose and intermixes the silicone material with feminine rose gold metal. Plus, if you happen to find it growing too tight or feeling too loose throughout the day, you’ll be able to easily adjust its size with the interchangeable connector. We’re also keen on the incontrovertible fact that its silicone overlays sturdy hardware underneath, so while the soft material won’t cause any discomfort, it still has a durable base that’s less prone to turn into damaged.

What testers say: “Like it! I actually have all the time wanted a Michele Watch, but since I mainly wear my Apple Watch I actually have never purchased one. That is one of the best of each worlds. I get comments ALL the time. Not to say it goes well with my skin tone!!”

Price at time of publish: $295

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Abas Alligator Apple Watch Band

Best Designer Leather Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Alligator and calf leather
  • Size compatibility: 42/44/ 45/49mm
  • Colorways: Forest, Chocolate, Western Tan, English Tan, Red, + more
  • Special features: Sustainably sourced leather from the Southeastern United States 
  • Neiman Marcus Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
  • Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars

If countless outfit versatility and a cushty fit are your primary M.O. when looking for an Apple Watch band, you’ll be able to’t go incorrect with selecting leather one. Abas is one of the best alternative for a designer leather Apple Watch band since it takes sustainable steps in its sourcing of materials. Per the brand, it only harvests leather from the company-owned tannery in Florida and other ones across the Southeastern United States. What’s more, you’re not limited to selecting from a narrow variety of neutral shades, as Abas designs the product in 14 colours starting from a vibrant hot pink and vivid yellow to a wealthy forest green and burnt orange. We like how the band adjusts similarly to a belt and clasps with a thorn buckle to make slipping it on and off a breeze. 

Price at time of publish: $250

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Kendra Scott Leanor Gold Tone Stainless Steel Watch Band

Best Jewelry Inspired Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Gold-tone stainless-steel with mother-of-pearl inlay
  • Size compatibility: 38/40/41MM and 42/44/45MM
  • Colorways: Gold
  • Special features:  Easy release mechanism
  • Kendra Scott’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 5/5

To be fair, probably the most stylish Apple Watch bands don’t seem like, well, that you simply’re wearing an Apple Watch. And, leave it to Kendra Scott to beguile us with its classic Southern charm — with this band, you’ll forget the purpose of the accessory is to decorate up our tech. Notably, it incorporates a quintessential strand of pearls into the band for an elevated design you’ll wish to reserve for more upscale occasions. With a surprising mother-of-pearl band and glistening gold accents, the design would tempt us to purchase the coordinating tech if we didn’t already own it, simply for a probability to sport this elegant piece of knickknack on our wrist.

Price at time of publish: $328

Courtesy of Kendra Scott

Nomad Aluminum Band

Best Metal Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Anodized aluminum
  • Size compatibility: 49mm, 45mm, 44mm, and 42mm
  • Colorways: Silver, Space Gray
  • Special features: DLC scratch-resistant coating, magnetic closure
  • Nomad’s Top Quality Star Badge on Google: 4.5/5

Otherworldly metallic shades infiltrated fall 2023 and spring 2024 fashion weeks, from dangling earrings right down to shiny shoes and silver handbags, but if you happen to’re not able to drip head-to-toe within the reflective finish, consider this watch as an introductory midpoint into the trend. The style is futuristic in greater than just its aesthetic: It’s made with super lightweight anodized aluminum, is water-resistant, and includes a scratch-proof coating. Nevertheless, one in all our favourite points of its design is the 2 discreet buttons you press to unclasp the watch from its magnetic closure, meaning you’ll be able to take it on and off without assistance. Its use of integrated lugs creates a cohesive design that offers the watch the sleek look of 1 continuous, mesmerizing loop. 

What testers say: “Silver is stunning. It’s lightweight, yet sturdy construction.”

Price at time of publish: $200

Courtesy of Nomad

Hermès Apple Watch Band

Best Nylon Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Materials: Knitted nylon
  • Size compatibility: 38 mm, 40 mm and 41 mm 
  • Colorways: Rouge H/Vermillion/Gold, Navy/Gris/Rouge H, Gold, + more
  • Special features: Matches with any stainless-steel Apple Watch case (Series 9 or previous versions)

Each iconic of their respective industries, it only seems natural that Apple would partner with Hermès to make designer Apple Watch bands. The newest iteration of their collaborative designs features a nylon Apple Watch bracelet available in several collegiate-inspired colorways, including the immediately recognizable signature Hermès orange shade. Nevertheless, we’re keen on the braided version that nods to the equestrian themes woven throughout the French heritage brand’s centuries-old designs.

Price at time of publish: $449

Courtesy of Hermes


What to Search for In a Designer Apple Watch Band

  • Price: Considering your Apple Watch is probably going a mainstay in your on a regular basis wear, spending a little bit extra on a band made with high-quality materials is definitely worth the investment. Designer Apple Watch bands start around $150 and may range to over $1,000. Nevertheless, some designer brands like Kate Spade and Lacoste still tout the brand name label and similar materials as higher-priced options but at lower cost points, starting around $75. 
  • Materials: Presumably, you’re looking for a designer Apple Watch band since you’re in search of something ready to face up to years of damage, by which case we advise materials like leather that only looks higher because it ages. Nevertheless, silicone might be an amazing solution if you happen to wear your watch during workouts because it could possibly handle sweat, is simple to wipe clean, and feels super comfortable on the wrist. Alternatively, metal and stainless-steel options may look probably the most luxe out of all of the materials. Nevertheless, we advise you double-check that you simply’re purchasing a watch with a protective coating, like PVD plating, since this finish can are likely to show scratches and scuffs. 
  • Size: To select the appropriate size of your Apple Watch band, start by cross-referencing the dimensions of the watch band you’re purchasing to the compatible size of your Apple Watch. Apple Watch bands are available various widths typically starting from 38mm to 45mm, so checking the important thing specs of whichever band you select to make sure it matches the tech is vital. Moreover, you’ll wish to search for adjustable features like removable links or notch holes that will likely be easy to regulate to the dimensions of your wrist. One other sizing factor you could want to think about is the width of the band. For instance, a band that’s too thick in your wrist could look heavy and ponderous.  


How We Chosen the Best Designer Apple Watch Bands

Since 1910, WWD — sometimes called “the style bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the worldwide women’s and men’s fashion, retail and wonder communities, while also informing the patron media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for each fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors proceed to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.

To compile this list of one of the best designer Apple Watch bands, we conducted hours of research to find the most well-liked designer Apple Watch Bands for 2023. Then, we narrowed it right down to our top favorites based on customer reviews and editor’s picks. We also considered other aspects like the standard of materials used and special features like whether the watch was waterproof or used sustainable manufacturing practices. Learn more about us here.


Meet the Creator

Irene Richardson is a Brooklyn-based author who covers fashion and wonder for brands equivalent to InStyle, Byrdie, Brides, Travel + Leisure, and Footwear News. Whether she’s going for a run or out to dinner, she never leaves the home without accessorizing first and wouldn’t be caught in public with no pair of earrings or, on the very least, an easy stack of bracelets. In her spare time, Irene keeps up with jewelry trends, including one of the best designer Apple Watch bands, to grasp which designs are hottest amongst celebrities and streetwear alike.

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