Fashion trend… A Shift Towards The Backpack

Today’s woman has many essentials to carry around: smartphone, tablet, cash and cards, keys and much more. But how do you keep all these important items safe and secure, yet easily reachable when you need them? The answer is simple; use a backpack as a purse. Fortunately, modern designers have caught onto this trend, and nowadays you can find all kinds of backpacks that look fabulous but are practical as well. The hands-free design lets you use your smartphone easily on the move, and the multiple pockets keep everything organised and accessible. And there is a stunning range of styles to suit every outfit and occasion.

Traditionally, backpacks have been viewed as a great accessory to match your casual outfits, and of course, this is still a vastly popular choice. Nylon and canvas bags are especially well suited to this style, and you have a choice of plain colours, sport-themed designs complete with logos, and eye-catching prints. Depending on your mood, you could match a mini-floral print with white jeans, pastel crop-top and short jacket for a feminine look, or black skinny jeans, black printed tee and leather jacket with a striking geometric print for a totally different feel.

Black leather makes a superb choice to add impact to a Goth or urban outfit, especially when embellished with large buckles and zips. Or to show off your sense of fun, why not flaunt a jaunty design shaped like a robot, an old school satchel, a furry monster or your favourite cartoon character?

Handbag-style designs are a great way to combined the convenience of a backpack with the appearance of a more traditional purse. These are often designed for versatility, with straps allowing them to be worn on your back, or handles so they can be carried. Often made from leather or smartly printed cotton, this style can also ring the changes. A backpack with bold polka dot print and contrasting panels makes a wonderful accessory to a vintage Fifties-inspired outfit, whilst a classic faux leather bag with narrow straps, chic zip features and decorative bootstrap tassels, would look lovely with a skater dress or even office wear.

You can even find a backpack to wear with your evening outfit. Size is everything here, so opt for a mini-version, perhaps made from patent leather and encrusted with rhinestone spangles, or a delightful silver leather version with ultra-light straps and tiny zips.

Backpack Trend 2014: The featured photo is of Mary Seng wearing a leather backpack from Rebecca Minkoff

Lene Orvik is wearing black backpack from Bik Bok

Lene Orvik is wearing black backpack from Bik Bok Backpack Trend: Mirjam Flatau is wearing a black backpack, the bucket bag from Mansur Gavriel

Backpack Trend: Mirjam Flatau is wearing a black backpack, the bucket bag from Mansur Gavriel

Backpack Trend: Mary Seng with her backpack from Rebecca Minkoff

Backpack Trend: Mary Seng with her backpack from Rebecca Minkoff

Kristina Bazan is wearing a chain trim leather backpack from Stella McCartney

Kristina Bazan is wearing a chain trim leather backpack from Stella McCartney

Marta Martín is wearing a denim backpack from from Petit Sesame

Marta Martín is wearing a denim backpack from from Petit Sesame

Jenny Ong is wearing a black leather backpack from Martella

Jenny Ong is wearing a black leather backpack from Martella

Annabelle Fleur is wearing a black leather chain backpack from Ash Domino

Annabelle Fleur is wearing a black leather chain backpack from Ash Domino

Larisa Costea is wearing a quilted leather backpack from Jadu

Larisa Costea is wearing a quilted leather backpack from Jadu