Until not so long ago, the accessorising game was largely dominated by women, while men played in the sneakers-and-watches playground. But over the past year, it’s becoming clear that men are also embracing the sartorial power (and convenience) of a statement handbag.
Historically, men were known to carry small pouches tied around their waists to hold essentials like coins or tools; their modern-day counterparts are spotted with similar bare necessities—AirPods, car keys, and Altoids in the season’s favourite bumbag. While you don’t have to take my word on this, you may want to believe certain men du jour who are championing the trend.
Jacob Elordi
Along with a thriving movie career, the star of Saltburn and Priscilla boasts a Rolodex-like collection of ‘it’ bags, from Burberry (it might be the Olympia or the TB Sling) to Fendi, Valentino, and Celine. The heartthrob also has a taste for classics such as the Chanel Flap or the Louis Vuitton Speedy. In 2023, after a photo of Elordi with the Bottega Veneta Andiamo went viral, the bag’s popularity skyrocketed, making it one of the most sought-after bags of the year. Soon enough, Elordi transitioned from fan to brand ambassador—officially going from babygirl to Bottega Boy.
Virat Kohli
When he’s not knocking it out of the cricket pitch, Kohli almost always serves with his off-duty appearances. A former national team captain and current fashion mogul, he usually ups his style game by casually showing up with an unexpected luxury bag. Kohli’s wide Louis Vuitton collection includes the durable and smart Horizon luggage trolley, the easy Josh backpack, and the Avenue Sling.
Harry Styles
A long-term advocate of gender fluidity and stylish bags, the musician-cum-actor is best known for his close association with Alessandro Michele’s Gucci. Styles is often spotted in the fashion house’s latest pieces, ranging from the Gucci x Disney suitcase to the more classic Jackie sling and Bamboo top-handle purse. Most recently, he was photographed walking the road less taken with The Row’s Margaux—a bag touted to be this generation’s Birkin.
Below, an edit of key pieces to add to your wardrobe:
