JOIN USA fetish for bags was once an exclusive female pastime. But then again, so was giving a hoot about what you wear.
Designers from the high street to the high-end are continually developing their understanding of what men want from a carrier, and repacking this knowledge into modern man bags.
If you’re toting around a battered old bag that’s seen better days, it’s time for an overhaul with one of these bag trends.
Tactile backpacks
In recent years, the luxury backpack has cemented itself as a stylish yet utilitarian method for carting everyday kit to the gym, airport and even work. Sleek versions such as those cut from supple black leather continue to offer the perfect balance between practical and sophisticated. The style takes on a more rugged, tactile vibe in earthy colours and materials such as suede and canvas too.
Utility holdalls
Weekend bags have had a facelift too. While there’s only so much experimenting that can be done with a practical carry-all before it loses purpose, swapping a plain overnight bag for something more interesting will take the ‘trip-style quotient’ up a notch.
For a solid utilitarian take, enlist the military. This year’s examples are found in canvas, leather or waxed cotton fabrics that resist wear and tear, with webbed strapping and a proliferation of pockets.
Satchels
The key to this bag being a worthy everyday choice in 2017 – in contrast to the briefcase – is to opt for a model with a structured body. Unlike the grubby, tattered edges of those carried by angst-ridden adolescents, an example crafted from leather will not only stand up to the rigours of daily wear but also get better the more you use it.
Folios
This is the year the male clutch goes mainstream. To help it get there, the modern document wallet comes in a variety of disguises.
Designed with practicality in mind, the folio is a simple, chic addition to any man’s wardrobe.
Just larger than A4 size, and with multi zip compartments for documents and stationery, it’s effortlessly stylish and organised.
For work, go sleek and sophisticated with options in neutral colour-ways, intended to keep documents pristine. To pack more of a punch, look to bolder colour-ways.
Luxury totes
For something that fuses the compact appearance of a backpack with the added practicality of a messenger, look to a luxury tote. The style has made the leap from student book carrier to full-on fashion statement this season, so don’t be afraid to go bold.
Because the tote is carried at arm’s length, you can get away with a much more vivid design than if it
was strapped to your body.
As a result, tongue-in- cheekslogans, Bold logos, all-over prints and crayon-box shades are all making anappearance for 2017.
(Contributed by Pooja Gajraj)