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19 October 2020

Luxe to Less: Backpacks

Words By Eliza Sears

Where functionality meets style.

Luxe

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we move around, we are walking more, and bike riding has drastically grown in popularity, so much so, there is now a bicycle shortage in some cities.

The last thing anyone wants when walking or riding is a bag falling off your shoulder or having your hands full of straps.

For a hands-free and worry-free alternative, we give you the humble backpack. If the word backpack stirs up images of your trusty, but ugly school bag, don’t worry, whether nylon or leather, backpacks have come a long way by way of style without compromising on functionality.

Prada’s signature Vela backpack has long had a cult following. And today is no different; fashion editors continue to sing its praises, citing its durability and resulting longevity for its continued status as an ‘It’ bag.

Prada Medium Nylon Backpack, $1,791.47, Nordstrom

Less

When it comes to purchasing a new bag, space is a hot commodity. We tend to carry the contents of our lives in one bag. Making best use of the space on offer is essential, and backpacks offer an abundance of real estate just waiting for you to fill it with all your essentials and maybe a few non-essentials too.

British heritage brand, Hunter, best known for its iconic gumboots, has a range of weatherproof backpacks on offer. Made from waterproof, rubberised leather, the Original Top Clip Backpack will shield your belongings from unpredictable weather, even when you get caught out.

Hunter Original Top Clip Backpack – Rubberised Leather, £245, Hunter

Low

In the lower-cost price point, leather is harder to come by, but vegan alternatives and canvas options are plentiful.

PETA approved, Canadian vegan accessories brand MATT & NAT; Mat(t)erial and Nature, was built with sustainability at its very core. MATT & NAT construct all their products using only the most innovative and eco-friendly materials available, including recycled nylon, cardboard, cork and rubber. And the lining of all MATT & NAT bags is made from an average of twenty-one recycled plastic bottles each.

MATT & NAT’s Studio 901 Collection features the IDZEL Flap Over Backpack. A stylish bag for everyday with a flap and fold-over clasp, ample space for a 13” inch laptop and easy to access front phone pocket.

MATT & NAT Mavi – Purity, $185, MATT & NAT