A growing trend among men is the adoption of handbags as a fashionable and functional accessory. This trend has been seen in high-profile figures such as Jacob Elordi, Harry Styles, Pharrell, A$AP Rocky, athletes like Travis Kelce, LeBron James, and David Beckham, who have been spotted with various designer handbags. Sales of men’s bags have increased in recent years, with a notable surge in designer handbags on men’s runways. The rise in interest in men’s handbags is not surprising to NYC stylist Turner Allen, who has seen more men incorporating bags into their wardrobe, as men’s fashion has always been utility-driven.
The history of handbags for men can be traced back to girdle pouches meant to hold spices and money, followed by the briefcase during the Industrial Revolution and the satchel popularized by Harrison Ford in the “Indiana Jones” franchise. In the ’90s and early 2000s, the “man purse” or “murse” became a taboo punchline in popular culture. However, with the debut of sporty crossbodys from Gucci and Supreme during the streetwear explosion in 2018, men started to see handbags as wardrobe essentials. This shift allowed men to express themselves fashionably, without fear of criticism or stigmas associated with gender roles.
For many men, carrying a bag is seen as both a fashion statement and a practical choice. Content creator Jalen Noble carries a luxe leather bag to accommodate the numerous items he needs daily. Men like Noble see handbags as a way to express their personal style and showcase their individuality without worrying about societal norms. While some men may be hesitant to incorporate bags into their wardrobe, NYC stylist Turner Allen suggests starting with understated crossbody satchels before moving on to more bold accessories. It takes time to get comfortable with this style, but trying on different styles in-store can help men find what works best for them.
Inspired by celebrities and athletes, like Noble, many men have embraced carrying handbags as a way to express themselves. Noble’s large social media following includes men who admire his fashion choices and use them as inspiration for their own style. For those interested in trying out handbags, Noble recommends experimenting with different styles and not being afraid to take risks. Robinson advises starting with a bag that fits seamlessly into one’s wardrobe for any occasion and gradually evolving one’s fashion sense over time. Taking chances and trying new things can be liberating for men who are looking to explore their personal style.
Overall, the trend of men carrying handbags has become more mainstream over the years, with an increasing number of men incorporating bags into their daily fashion choices. The shift towards embracing handbags as an accessory reflects a changing attitude towards men’s fashion and a greater acceptance of individuality and self-expression. As more men explore different styles and take risks with their fashion choices, the stigma surrounding men’s handbags continues to diminish, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse fashion landscape.
