MEN WANT TO WEAR PURSES, THEY JUST DON'T KNOW IT YET

 The crowds outside menswear shows in Paris are always a good hint of what’s going to be the talk of the industry in the months to come. 

Recent fashion weeks have shown how the attitude toward bags in menswear is changing. You don’t have to look femme or overdressed to sport a sizable accessory traditionally associated with women’s fashion. In recent years, bags for men have gone from something almost taboo to one of the hottest trends, and the biggest industry players are keen to jump on board.

Historically, men and bags have had a complicated relationship. Google the two words together and you’ll find anxiety-laden questions along the lines of “Are man bags acceptable?” “Can a man carry a purse?” “How to wear a man bag?” and “What do you put in a man bag?” In the past, the rigid idea of masculinity allowed a backpack, a briefcase, or ideally nothing at all, stuffing your essentials into one's pockets. In fact, the very term “man bag” is an awkward attempt at emasculation.

Attitudes started to shift a few years ago. That went hand in hand with the rise of streetwear and was influenced by street culture references and ’90s fashion. First fanny packs and then side bags became a menswear staple. It was a no-brainer, a combination of simple utilitarian design and practicality.