Trend Watch: Man Bags

Man bags: you probably have seen them everywhere, but they can blend into a wardrobe so well when worn with the right panache. Traditional cross-body satchels still rule the scene, but man bags are more versatile than ever. Distressed neutral canvas carryalls reign supreme for casual looks, while totes fit for the gym or beach have decorative stitching and leather trim.

Runway Focus

Along with the everyday basic satchels, there are many man bags available in new shapes. From soft creased leather, smooth polished structured bags, and stiff oversized canvas bags, everyone can find one to match their lifestyle and wardrobe. When in doubt about what style to choose, get two! Man bags, doubly stylish and functional, are here to stay.

This season’s gems include:

Prada
Prada has them in updated styles with soft leather in a soft, squishy duffle shape. Held on the runway almost like a clutch, straps hanging down, it’s a totally manly accessory for any  businessman with an edge. Paired with a slim gray suit, it’s just the look for the season.

Paul Smith
Paul Smith gives us funkier choices for the season, if you need an updated man bag with some fresh style. We saw cool colored bags with neat details. Pair your suede Paul Smith bag with  bright shoes for a very lively functional accessory.

Valentino
Valentino’s man bags have an interesting, almost ethnic flavor this season. Almost luggage-like in their size and proportions, they can serve as a roomy gym bag with no problem. They are surprising heavy and adorned for next season. Heavy grommets spice up rounded bags with short tote handles. Canvas bags have an abundance of leather trim as well.

Balenciaga
Balenciaga—the veritable king of bags—has several new man bags out this season. Trimmed with black leather and in light shades, they are delightfully oversized. They have the shape of a tote, but have the generous proportions of a duffle. What a great season for men who travel with a lot of extras!

Details, Details

The buckle trend should definitely make its way into your closets this season. Louis Vuitton’s bags were slightly soft, with added structure from piping, extra zippers, and external pockets.

This season’s man bags are available in a variety of colors to fit in with any wardrobe. We saw lots of buttery leathers complete with shiny zippers, super shiny finishes in earth tones, and slouchy patterned fabrics. While neutrals predominate, there are plenty of designer prints to choose from if that’s more your style.

How to Wear Yours

To stay on top of the trend, get a more casual man bag to blend with your separates and get one for work. Especially perfect for those who never feel like they can follow trends with suits and formal business wear, man bags afford a perfect opportunity to fashion up any look.

Tips
• Overstuffing is bad. Man bags are meant to accessorize without looking completely utilitarian. To stay true to the look of the season, get yours a little bigger to still be cool.
• Making a statement is good. Bags this season were worn to be seen—not disguised!