Shouldering a New Backpack Trend
I trudge through the cragged streets of the student neighborhood at my university and see a slew of backpacks bobbing in front of me. A black and purple plaid JanSport bag looks heavy and full; a nameless grey plastic-looking bag is cracked and dirty; a NorthFace solid black bag looks pristine and new. These are the usual kinds of backpacks I’ve seen on daily walks to class for the past three years. Lately, though, I’ve noticed a different sort of trend in book-carrying gear.
Rugged sacks seem to making a statement, ranging from the southwestern inspired knapsack to the military-esque rucksack. And rustic satchels are replacing sleek messenger bags. I’ve actually been contributing to this trend for over a year with my vintage Banana Republic canvas satchel that I found at a local thrift store. Some of the bags, though, form slouchy hemp lumps. These seem to be bit unsupportive. They can’t really hold all your books and laptop in a neat little row – it all gets jumbled in there. I can’t really deny that some of them, though are super cute, even if not too functional for school supplies – using them as an over-night bag might be a better function.
Other knapsacks are a little sturdier, like the Aztec patterned one, I saw at Target for about 30 bucks. Other designs included faux leather, solid colored-canvas, and one had what I think was a raccoon’s face on the top flap. Whatever your book-carrying style, I think you can find something to work for you. Stores like Gap, the Banana Republic, and Macy’s also have a bunch of different rustic styled bags for your everyday trekking needs. Many are made of a canvas-like fabric, but leather or other water-resistant material is available as well, for those in rainier climates. You can find a ton of bags online by just typing in “knapsack” or “satchel.” So, if you want to jump on the rugged bag bandwagon, have at it! I personally love the look, but I realize, too, that some occasions warrant a bit of a sleeker bag.
Besides my Banana Republic messenger bag, I also have a cloth-like backpack perfect for over-night or weekend outings. I also have a typical JanSport purple backpack made of water-resistant material for rainy days. And for fancy occasions, I’ll use a wide, faux leather black purse. Whatever your needs, a number of knapsacks, satchels, and messenger bags are at your disposal. While style is always important, be sure to pick a bag for comfort, too – you don’t want to break your back!
Written By: Mary B.
Photo Sources:
http://meninstylesociety.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/p1160836.jpg?w=584&h=438
http://coolmaterial.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Brothers-Bray-Co-Rucksack.jpg
