This season, the ‘man’ bag has become a stellar feature on the catwalks of Paris and Milan - featuring a range of weird and wonderful sizes, textures and colours. From mens briefcases to backpacks and holdalls, stylish travel is a must.
Once upon a time, men of a certain age would cram everything they own, into their trouser pockets. With this is mind, we can be forgiven for thinking back to that classic episode of Friends, where Joey becomes obsessed with his unisex ‘murse’ – much to the amusement of serial wind up artist, Chandler.
Today’s man however, is far more willing to push the boundaries of fashion, and experiment with a wealth of different styles. Personally, I believe there are three bags, every man should own. One which is suitable for the office, the second, can be worn at leisure; and the third is an uber stylish travel aid.
1.) THE CLASSIC BRIEFCASE
We all know the importance of having an office persona. One which lets all your colleagues know, when it comes to the working environment - you mean business. Nothing oozes professionalism and screams of a well organised individual, like a classic mens briefcase. Worn with a power suit, and a pair of stylish leather gloves, the briefcase is the perfect accessory to flaunt you career success and establish yourself as a true man of the world.
Lanvin have released a stylish range of gangster style briefcases – which feature a range of on-trend pastel shades.
Lanvin suitcases
If you long for a slightly less expensive alternative, Marks and Spencer’s have just unveiled their new Collezione winter range. Their double-lock briefcase, inspired by classic Italian craftsmanship is a beautiful alternative.
M&S Briefcase.
M&S briefcase.
2.) THE RUCKSACK/ BACK PACK
This season the rucksack has been given a sophisticated makeover for 2012. Calvin Klein set the trend; with their Crocodile skin backpacks – which also transform into a tote bag, when you adjust the straps. The rucksack is a very important menswear staple, as it’s extremely functional, yet it can be played down or jazzed up, depending on the occasion.
ASOS have a healthy range of designs, which celebrate the quirky, youthful nature of the rucksack. Amongst my favorites’ lay their Aztec and camouflage prints.
aztec rucksack asos £30
camo backpack £40 from asos
3.) THE HOLDALL/TRAVEL BAG
Whether it’s a fabulous weekend break, or an overnight stay for work – travelling in style, with a good piece of luggage on your arm, is essential. When it comes to beautiful luggage, no one quite beats the sophistication and elegance of Mulberry’s travel hold alls.
Mulberry’s classic scotch-grain luggage collection has a wonderfully textured surface, which is beautiful in its simplicity. John Lewis also boast a range of exquisite hold alls, for a fraction of the price. Their Bric’s life clipper, shares Mulberry’s beautifully textured finish, keeping the bag stain-free, and highly durable.
Mulberry large clipper.
john lewis holdall.
Investing in a good bag is now as important to men, as it is to women. Just remember, if you opt for timeless pieces which wont go out of style, you will be making a life long investment.
