Handsome and hands-free: Our favourite backpacks this season
Grown up versions that are just as fitting for toting textbooks as they are for filling with files
I will forever associate backpacks with back-to-school. From kindergarten til the end of my university days, they were just as important an accessory come September as a new pair of indoor shoes or thin-tipped pens. The small collection that still lives in my parents' basement tells the shifting story of my style (from Disney-obsessed to sporty and finally, chic but functional). Despite the fact that my back-to-school days are long in the rear-view mirror, I'm feeling nostalgic for a hands-free bag with so many flooding the market. Everyone from Louis Vuitton and Chanel to Roots and the Gap are offering options to keep our stuff stylishly stowed. Since they look great with everything from suits to sweats, you can get maximum mileage out of your new bag by sticking to sophisticated styles that include leather panels, minimal hardware or structured shapes. Even your colour choice should be considered — stick to neutrals and no one will mistake you for a student.
Mansur Gavriel's bags have a cult following thanks to their minimal design and cool colour palette. This roomy backpack (which also comes in pale pink, fiery red and rich caramel) is big enough to stash all your stuff, but sleek enough to bring into the boardroom.
Black Backpack, $1,100, mansurgavriel.com
You don't often see midnight navy croc-stamped leather. It's just as versatile as black but has a subtle depth that makes it feel extra special. This pack has a slim profile making it the perfect companion for a suit.
Marcelle Backpack, $566.88, clarev.com
Still toting that canvas bag you've had since your days on campus? It's time for an upgrade. This structured bag with leather straps and interior pockets will look as good today as it will years down the road.
Metropolitan Soft Backpack, $550, coach.com
This is multifunction at its best. Cos' leather bag functions as both a tote and a backpack, and comes with a multitude of hidden pockets for carrying files, a laptop or even your lunch.
Grained Leather Tote Backpack, about $290 CAD, available in Cos stores
This feels like the Jansport bags that flooded the halls of my high school but gets a dose of grown up glamour thanks to the glossy satin finish. The outside pocket is great for quick access to your phone, keys and metro pass.
Elizabeth and James Satin Backpack, about $380 CAD, net-a-porter.com
Want to make your cubicle-mates jealous? Go for this bag from the under the radar brand Danse Lente. The convertible strap (from one shoulder to two) and discreet logo make it a cool-girl magnet.
Danse Lente Jamie Leather Backpack, $730, modaoperandi.com
If you're going to blow your rent money on a backpack, make it this one. One touch of the buttery soft leather and you'll be sold. It'll easily take you beyond the commute to chic weekends away.
Loewe Small Leather Backpack, about $4,200 CAD, net-a-porter.com
Looking for something outside the box? Matt & Nat's vegan leather backpack fits the bill. And they've thought of everything: metal feet to prevent rolling, a recycled nylon lining and pockets for toting your tech.
Kiara Rio Backpack, $160, mattandnat.com
It's no surprise that Canadians designers dreamt up this backpack. The ultra-lightweight, nylon chevron acts like a cozy puffer coat for your gear making it ideal for the chilly winter months ahead.
Mackage Idra Nylon Backpack, $503.22, shopbop.com
If you're prone to wearing neutrals, there's nothing like a pop of colour to give your outfit a jolt. The maroon and oxblood combination will look just as good paired with your office essentials as it will with jeans and a sweater on off-duty days.
Rhea Medium Color-Block Pebbled Leather Backpack, $378 (on sale for $283.50), michaelkors.ca
This Montreal-designed bag has all the details of high-end backpack, but rings in at a much more palatable price. Plus, it's got a sturdy tote handle, so it's really more like two bags in one.
Alex Sand Backpack, $539 (on sale for $378), thestowe.com
Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.