St Andrean Style: The Man Bag

So, in discussing the wonders of the turtleneck in my last article, I explained the serious shortcomings in my qualifications to write anything authoritative on men’s fashion, other than possessing an excessive amount of clothes and a relatively keen eye. However, I am back. This week: the man bag. Hot.

Before continuing, I feel as though there is a need to draw some sort of a line under any prejudice that men are subject to for wanting to own and use a man bag. Why, oh why, should women have a monopoly on carrying any conveniently sized bag? For too long have men been lumped with pockets stuffed and jackets bulging.  It is not necessarily a fashion statement but fundamentally a practical choice. So all of you anti-man bag gents out there – take note!

The man bag doesn’t aim to be conspicuous or all-consuming, but instead smart and practical. A man spending a morning moaning over his ‘murse’ is just as ridiculous as it sounds, so if this is you, you’re in the deep end – swim to the side and get out.

So, five types of bag for the man:

1. Holdall – Any St Andrean man needs a holdall for those weekends away visiting friends or four-day trips in reading week. The sleek and decidedly more stylish holdall should replace the bulky suitcase. I would suggest investing in a leather holdall with a neat lining to ensure your turtleneck doesn’t get wet when you’re waiting at the bus stop.

2. The Briefcase – The oldest form of acceptable bag for men. The briefcase is not limited to the white collared man with a 9 to 5 just as the logoed messenger bag is not only for the student or schoolboy.  A briefcase is practical for any student carrying books, notes and a lappy. Papa got a brand new bag! The briefcase is no longer boxy and frumpy but instead the classic shape has been softened, buckles, leather exterior, and practical interior compartments make this bag a timeless addition to any working/studying man’s wardrobe.

3. Backpack – Americans love ’em! Controversially, I always used to consider the backpack as belonging on hiking trips, hipsters, or any boy under the age of 12.  However, before I alienate a huge percentage of St Andrews, I must say that I am a huge fan now and have been looking for the perfect backpack for almost a year. I have fallen in love with a couple, for example check out Bill Amberg’s backpack at Mr Porter. The whole look is amazing; Breton stripe top, slim-fit jeans and leather boots with a wooden sole.  Absolute winner.

4. Messenger Bag – Often made from canvas and swung across the shoulder, messenger bags have, for quite a while now, had a firm place in urban fashion. The canvas messenger bag is traditionally more of a studenty choice but we know St Andrews is far from the norm. The messenger’s laid-back style has a classic casual style, but a quality leather messenger also carries a hint of sophistication perfect for the St Andrean student (N.B. Beware upper thigh chaffing).

5. Tote – Notably the least masculine option. I won’t deny the tote’s aesthetic appeal but if you’re worried about being mistaken for Paris Hilton’s GBF from 2006 this is the look to avoid. The tote can only be referred to as the man’s handbag; nonetheless the tote’s basic design makes it a practical addition to the wardrobe of any adventurous sartorialist. If temptation gets the best of you, a chocolate brown or black leather tote is arguably the most masculine option to go with.  

Get on the fashion-forward bandwagon. The man bag is stylish and practical and a necessity for the modern man’s wardrobe. Grab your bags gentlemen and carry on!

Photo © Tom Porter