bandolera

Bandolera is a Spanish noun with two common senses related to how items are carried on the body. In its historical sense it designates a bandolier, a belt or strap worn over the shoulder and across the chest that carries ammunition in pockets or loops. The bandolera allowed a soldier to keep cartridges at hand while leaving the hands free. In contemporary contexts the term is often used for a crossbody bag or shoulder bag, known as a bolso bandolera, defined by a long strap that goes diagonally across the torso and a compact main compartment. This fashion use is widespread in Spanish-speaking countries and is a standard term in fashion and retail.

The English equivalent for the military sense is bandolier, while for the fashion accessory sense it aligns with crossbody bag or messenger bag. The term bandolera thus reflects its origin in the idea of a belt or band worn on the body to carry items. Usage may vary by region, with bollo bandolera or bolso bandolera used specifically for the bag in many countries, and the broader sense retained in historical or formal contexts.

In summary, bandolera can refer to a historical ammunition belt worn across the chest or to a modern crossbody bag worn with a long shoulder strap. The meaning is largely determined by context, and regional usage may favor one sense over the other.