Men are sometimes a bit reluctant to use a bag. But now, more and more men are changing their ways and turning to a bag of some kind to cart around their belongings, just like us women have been doing for years. But what looks good and what is still a big no no? Allow me to investigate...
The Messenger Bag
Record bags have an urban feel, especially if you opt for something branded or with a logo. A messenger or dispatch bag is very similar, but tends to be less casual. These are perfect for every day and dependent on your own personal style, can be dressed down, or worn with a suit. If carrying heavy items, sling the bag across the body to distribute the weight. The bag pictured above is from Paquetage at Sarenza.
The Satchel
Satchels are big news, especially with the phenomenal success of brands like The Cambridge Satchel Company. A tan or dark brown leather is a safe choice and will soften and look great even as it ages and wears. If you like something a bit more statement then try a coloured style or even neon.
The Tote
This is definitely my favourite up-and-coming style for guys. Again, a luxury, leather style wins the most style points but try and black/tan colour blocked style for the ultimate accessory. It's also roomy enough to pop in your gadgets or a small laptop which makes it a practical choice. I love this Marc by Marc Jacobs tote, an investment at £380.
The Gym Bag
Sporty types will feel at home with a gym bag, and there will be plenty or room to store all your kit. Keep this for the gym though, it has no style kudos anywhere else. Topman have some great barrel bags which fit the purpose.
The Laptop Bag
Fuctional, but also a potential style statement. Many designers and retailers are putting a bit more thought into the bog standard laptops bag, making it much more fashionable than they have been in the past. Forgt those standard techy ones and pick a designer style like the Marc by Marc Jacobs laptop bag pictured.
The Briefcase
If you are a suit wearer or office worker then you will probably feel quite at home with a brief case. Men have been using them for a long time. I think simple and classic is best, or if you carry a laptop, you can easily use that to carry your other documents as well. Go for a good quality leather, it really is worth investing.
The Rucksack
Now, I'm not talking about a sports backpack or one of those horrid drawstring things... the back pack is back, and there are leather or canvas styles which look great. Best of all, they won't leave you with a bad neck or shoulder from carrying the extra weight around as it's evenly distributed. Try the Balenciaga bag above for statement style.
The Weekender
I actually have a men's weekender bag from Hugo Boss. It's in darkest green suede and it still looks as new as the day I got it. Invest in a great holdall and wash-bag and you'll always look forward to packing for a break, even if it's a work trip.
And what to avoid...
The Messenger Bag
Record bags have an urban feel, especially if you opt for something branded or with a logo. A messenger or dispatch bag is very similar, but tends to be less casual. These are perfect for every day and dependent on your own personal style, can be dressed down, or worn with a suit. If carrying heavy items, sling the bag across the body to distribute the weight. The bag pictured above is from Paquetage at Sarenza.
Satchels are big news, especially with the phenomenal success of brands like The Cambridge Satchel Company. A tan or dark brown leather is a safe choice and will soften and look great even as it ages and wears. If you like something a bit more statement then try a coloured style or even neon.
The Tote
This is definitely my favourite up-and-coming style for guys. Again, a luxury, leather style wins the most style points but try and black/tan colour blocked style for the ultimate accessory. It's also roomy enough to pop in your gadgets or a small laptop which makes it a practical choice. I love this Marc by Marc Jacobs tote, an investment at £380.
The Gym Bag
Sporty types will feel at home with a gym bag, and there will be plenty or room to store all your kit. Keep this for the gym though, it has no style kudos anywhere else. Topman have some great barrel bags which fit the purpose.
The Laptop Bag
Fuctional, but also a potential style statement. Many designers and retailers are putting a bit more thought into the bog standard laptops bag, making it much more fashionable than they have been in the past. Forgt those standard techy ones and pick a designer style like the Marc by Marc Jacobs laptop bag pictured.
The Briefcase
If you are a suit wearer or office worker then you will probably feel quite at home with a brief case. Men have been using them for a long time. I think simple and classic is best, or if you carry a laptop, you can easily use that to carry your other documents as well. Go for a good quality leather, it really is worth investing.
The Rucksack
Now, I'm not talking about a sports backpack or one of those horrid drawstring things... the back pack is back, and there are leather or canvas styles which look great. Best of all, they won't leave you with a bad neck or shoulder from carrying the extra weight around as it's evenly distributed. Try the Balenciaga bag above for statement style.
I actually have a men's weekender bag from Hugo Boss. It's in darkest green suede and it still looks as new as the day I got it. Invest in a great holdall and wash-bag and you'll always look forward to packing for a break, even if it's a work trip.
And what to avoid...
- Anything small and clutch like. Men have pockets for the little things and you need to be a real trend-setter to carry this one off. The likes of Matthew Zorpas can work the look and still stay stylish, especially with the Gucci clutch bag featured above.
- Fussy detailing. Keep it plain and simple for the best results
- Tatty, old or broken bags. There's so many great styles on offer now there really is no excuse to keep using that bag you loved but have near enough destroyed from 10 years ago. Go shopping!
2 comments:
I've been using a leather briefcase which will serve me every functional and fashionable need. With more room available and modern day briefcases, have evolved a great deal.
Thanks for your comment Andrew... you really can't go wrong with good quality leather.
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