While the concept of men wearing bags is nothing new, the actual “man bag” very much is. When researching for this piece I assumed the search intent would firmly be in the camp of “best bags for men”, with your average Joe opting for a basic backpack or throw-it-all-in duffle. How silly of me. What men really want is a proper man bag (so much so the phrase is getting 18,100 searches a month and Mr Porter has said sales growth for man bags from brands like Bottega to Loro Piana is up from 30 per cent to 200 per cent year-on-year) — and an expensive one at that.
The rise in man bags — a shoulder style more likened to a traditional handbag — is very exciting indeed and only confirms that fashion has the power to break age-old norms of masculinity. This was cemented when Gucci reintroduced its iconic Jackie 1961 bag with none other than Harry Styles as the face of the campaign. Other heartthrobs spotted with a handbag include Saltburn star Jacob Elordi who is often photographed with a crossbody nonchalantly swinging over his manly shoulder.
And it’s hardly a surprise — regardless of gender, we all have too much stuff to fit into a measly back pocket. Though if you really can’t fathom the annoyance of straps on your shoulders, or simply don’t trust yourself not to leave your tote at the pub, work bags are a great place to start your journey of individualism. Plus these bags are perfect for newcomers to the man bag trend. Is that a document holder in your hand or this season’s chicest new clutch for men? The lines have been intentionally blurred. Walk into a room with enough confidence in your new man bag and we guarantee no questions will be asked — the compliments will be rolling in.
