It's in the bag: 3 men's bag trends landing right now
Retire your old classic, we have your new favourite ahead
The saying "it's all in the details" couldn't be more applicable when it comes to adding a bag to your closet. The accessory game is always running and this season, there are three main bags trending big time: the mini crossbody messenger, the tote, and the fanny pack. All have different features and any could become your go-to this fall season. Here are the luxury/runway inspiration versions, plus great alternatives that won't break the bank.
Mini-crossbody messenger
First up, the mini-crossbody messenger bag — think of that big bike messenger bag only smaller, sleeker and way more colorful. This bag is the perfect size to carry not only the essentials like keys, wallet and your phone, but also your clunky (yet handy) battery pack and/or your mini point-and-shoot cam. Designers like Kenzo, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana all have released designer versions, but it's this black Alyx crossbody bag, seen on the likes of Asap Rocky and Kanye West, that may have started the crossbody bag wave.
Alyx Black Crossbody Bag, $1200, ssense.com
This Taikan Sacoche bag is a great example of a versatile side bag that has a retro sportswear-vibe thanks to the purple tones in this colourway. The camera strap-inspired design is a plus; it allows the bag to be worn either around the neck as well as off to the side.
Sacoche Bag, $29.99, taikaneverything.com
This Zara crossbody bag has several mini compartments for you to organize your gear. The overall black design is balanced nicely by the complementary striped pattern on the front. The dual zippered compartments make this a great travel bag; it allows you to keep that passport secure and close to you on those fall getaways you've got planned.
Mini Crossbody Bag, $39.90, zara.com
This H&M offering has more of a military feel thanks to the tiger/camo pattern and mesh front pocket. The straps are detachable, so this one can double as a dopp kit when travelling since it's flat design will pack well!
Small Shoulder Bag, $29.99, H&M
Totes
The tote bag is experiencing a big resurgence this fall for men, with many design houses doing their own rendition of the popular silhouette. Balenciaga and Prada have released their own versions of the "man tote" but leave it to Virgil Abloh and his label Off-White to release a unique and playful take on the timeless design. Here, Virgil chooses the not-so-subtle red as the main colour for his take on the classic canvas tote. As part of his quote collection, the word "Goods" is printed in air quotes on the front giving the bag a playful feel he's become known for.
Off-White Red Quote Tote, $660, ssense.com
Tie-dye has been huge these days so full marks go to this Urban Outfitters tote. The bag features an allover tie-dye pattern in a durable canvas material. This gets a thumbs up all around.
UO Tie-Dye Tote, $34.00, urbanoutfitters.com
This Humming Kraft Tote first appears to be composed of a paper bag-like material, but is actually an extremely durable tote made of the brands' "Kraft paper" — a material derived from German high-grade wood pulp which can actually be washed!
The Tote, $47.99, hummingkraft.com
This RAINS Tote bag is the most weather-friendly of our selects. RAINS is known for their unisex, waterproof jackets, so it comes as no surprise that this tote boasts a waterproof outer shell and zipper. Thumbs up on this matte stone colourway which is ultra slick!
RAINS Tote Bag Rush, $69.99, altitude-sports.com
Fanny pack
Finally, the fanny pack trend has risen to astronomical heights the last couple seasons and shows no signs of slowing down, if anything it's just getting bigger. While every designer has their own version, it's Italian luxury house Gucci that has probably the most iconic belt bag of them all. This bag quickly moved from the runway to around the waists of every celebrity from Jared Leto to Rihanna, but with the retro logo, premium leather and signature Gucci red and green belt, can you blame them?
Gucci Print Leather Belt Bag, $1535, gucci.com
If you are looking for a bag with a little more colour then maybe this Patagonia hip pack is the one for you. The bag features a nice mix of yellow, burgundy, pink and blue which gives it a fun athletic vibe, but don't get it twisted: this bag is made of a tear and weather-resistant nylon which makes it just as strong as it is pretty.
Lightweight Travel Mini Pack, $35, patagonia.ca
Neon and fluorescent colours are very on trend and this Topman body bag takes full advantage. Shown here in a bright lime green, the bag can be worn on the waist or across the body. However you wear it, rest assured you will be seen. #safetyfirst
Lime Green Body Bag, $29.00, topman.com
I love the blue and orange colour combo on this MEC hip pod. The bag is made from super-resilient ripstop nylon and features dual layer foam built into the back panel for comfort. The orange hardware and zipper pulls are a nice touch, and simple, added handle will prove to be quite handy.
Travel Light Hip Pod, $19.00, mec.ca
Joe Amio is a creator, curator and menswear aficionado. Find him on Instagram @joeisthenewblack.