Guide to men’s bags – part 1

Men are finally changing their opinions on carrying a bag, and the bad habit of stuffing your pockets with everything from your keys and wallet to iPhone and mints is ceasing. Clothes make the man, so the saying goes. But in modern times, this adage seems so old and out-of-style. Nowadays, a man's outfit is not complete without a bag (or some accessories). Gone are the days when only women are particular with their outfit. Many men, especially the younger generation, indulge in clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories.

Any man of fashion knows that bags have become a necessary tool and style accessory. A bag is no longer just seen as a women’s fashion accessory, and the selection available on the market today in fact enables you to add some edge and masculinity to your outfits.

Just as there are a wide variety of bags for women, there are also different types of bags that men can enjoy. Designers have given men's bags a modern look and added more varieties to satisfy the modern man's craving for fashion and style.

The overall practicality aspect of a bag is obviously the main reason for owning one; giving you another option in which to carry your phone, wallet, loose change, freshen ups, tablet or favorite book. A bag is an accessory, but if you invest wisely in the correct style, material and color for your personal style then it will last you a lifetime and become the perfect addition to the capsule wardrobe you are building.

The following are six types of men's bags that can be easily mixed and matched with your business and casual wardrobes.

1. Holdall bags

Currently a very popular style of bag for men, a classic holdall is perfect for occasions such travel, business and gym use. What was typically a bulky bag in the past has been transformed into a stylish and sleek form of luggage, with the latest collections on the market being a lot lighter in weight. Its design is inspired by the duffel bag, but its predominantly leather exterior and more refined appearance attribute a classic look to this practical tote.

Holdalls generally give off a very masculine vibe, probably to do with the ‘bigger is better’ ethos that men tend to adopt. As such they look great when paired with classic masculine pieces – think shirts, suiting, tailoring and thick outerwear – as well as some mainstay trends. The Military and Rocker inspired trends are perfect for integrating a holdall, as the large bag produces balance to chunky complimenting footwear such as boots, as well as hard and edgy leather jackets.

The selection of holdalls available these days leaves your options endless, although you cannot go wrong with a classic leather version. This should be seen as an investment for most young men, as this is a bag that you will use throughout your lifetime and never date. The leather will only get better with age, and will tell a story with each distressing and nick it takes on your world travels.

When carrying a leather holdall, try to keep your surrounding pieces classic, timeless and refined like the gentlemen shown below. The sleek lines of the holdall lend itself very well to this type of dressing and the leather holdall is a classy man bag. Canvas versions will adapt much better to trend looks as they are not as limiting as leather.

2. Men’s Tote Bags

A tote is the modern approach to the classic briefcase. Resembling an artisan’s bag, the tote is the utmost in casual business attire. Its basic design and usual soft leather exterior allots it a classic status, while its long handles give it a contemporary edge. If purchased in a chocolate brown or black, this bag can add a touch of laid-back masculinity to any casual work wear.

For something a bit different, there are currently a few suede versions on the market that not only look great, but are very unique and individual. The texture and finish of suede gives your accessory that little bit extra and is perfect when you want a real statement piece on your arm.

Other key versions to look out for would be patterned or bold color  totes. Both of these styles are great for adding a shot of life to an outfit; whether you are using them to break up a monochromatic work look or simply using the bag to coordinate and compliment the other colors in your outfit.