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    1. Fashion

    18 Backpacks That Will Make You Rethink Your Go-To Bag

    Your shoulders will thank you.

    Julia Gall's avatar
    By Julia Gall
    Published 8 September 2021 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Backpack
    (Image credit: Tyler Joe)
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    Backpacks have become the perfect choice for a hassle-free schlep across town. Gone are the days when you'd only spot backpacks on the shoulders of Coachella-goers—now, investing in a luxe leather backpack has become just as satisfying as getting your hands on that new Gucci shoulder bag you've been eyeing. Ahead, we've rounded up the best backpacks for every occasion, from the gym to the office, that will make you reconsider grabbing your tote the next time you walk out the door.

    The ReNew Transit Backpack

    Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
    $75.00 AT EVERLANE.COM

    Everlane's minimalist ReNew backpack, made from 100 percent recycled polyester, can fit a 15-inch laptop. Plus, it's water-resistant for those unpredictable rain showers on the commute home from work.

    Studio Backpack

    ANDI Studio Backpack
    $118.00 AT THEANDIBRAND.COM

    Use this sporty skewing backpack as a gym bag, diaper bag, or a daily all purpose bag. A front snap pocket offers quick grab access while mesh side pockets and internal pockets will fit your water bottle and an extra pair of shoes.

    Mini Snap Backpack

    Portland Leather Goods Mini Snap Backpack
    $124.00 AT PORTLANDLEATHERGOODS.COM

    This mini backpack is a versatile hands-free option that boasts a large front snap pocket and buckle straps that adjust for a customizable fit.

    The Canvas Somerset Backpack

    Madewell The Canvas Somerset Backpack
    $58.99 AT MADEWELL.COM

    Madewell's sturdy canvas backpack is every boho lover's dream, and even has the option to be monogrammed.

    Dual Function Backpack to Tote Bag

    Lululemon Dual Function Backpack to Tote Bag
    $88.00 AT LULULEMON.COM

    This bag easily converts from a tote to a backpack. Try it once and you'll wonder how you ever made the office-to-gym commute carrying anything else.

    The Transport Rucksack

    Madewell The Transport Rucksack
    $179.50 AT MADEWELL.COM

    Behold: a vegan leather bag that can be carried by the handle, worn over both shoulders, or slung over one arm without any worry that you're going to rip the straps. It has enough room to fit your entire life—laptop, tampons, lipstick, and all—and comes in black if you plan to keep it at the front of your closet year-round.

    Leather Backpack

    Cuyana Leather Backpack
    $202.00 AT CUYANA.COM

    Blink and you'll almost mistake this backpack for a classic bucket bag. If you can afford to splurge a little, this soft leather silhouette is sturdy, beautiful, and has an easily accessible pocket to slip your phone into so it doesn't drown in your receipts.

    City Backpack

    MZ Wallace City Backpack
    $225.00 AT MZWALLACE.COM

    The quilted pattern on this MZ Wallace bag is elevated, so you can sport it around laid-back work environments without looking like you're heading to the nearest music festival.

    Large Leather Backpack

    Cuyana Large Leather Backpack
    $450.00 AT CUYANA.COM

    We might as well call this sleek leather backpack Mary Poppins because it's practically perfect in every way.

    Shop All

    Paravel Shop All
    $275.00 AT TOURPARAVEL.COM

    Paravel's leather-trimmed, water-resistant canvas backpack screams, "Take me to Italy!"

    Abby Drawstring Backpack

    Parker Clay Abby Drawstring Backpack
    $198.00 AT PARKERCLAY.COM

    We love this backpack for its undeniable style, but also because each purchase provides four hours of employment to Parker Clay's team in Ethiopia.

    Bedford Bag

    Mifland Bedford Bag
    $320.00 AT MIFLAND.COM

    This multi-wear bag comes with a variety of straps so you can don it crossbody style, like a shoulder bag, or a backpack.

    Packable Backpack

    Baggu Packable Backpack
    $10.80 AT SHOPBOP.COM

    It rolls up to the size of two pairs of socks, making it the perfect stowaway for any vacation that may need an all day excursion kind of bag.

    Veau Foulonne Backpack

    Longchamp Veau Foulonne Backpack
    $630.00 AT BLOOMINGDALES

    This is not your middle school Longchamp tote bag—it's better. Meredith Blake would approve.

    Medium Nylon Backpack

    Prada Medium Nylon Backpack
    $1200.00 AT NORDSTROM.COM

    “I like my Skechers, but I love my Prada backpack." Wiser words were never spoken, thanks to Bianca in Ten Things I Hate About You. Prada’s nylon accessories are a '90s classic that are here to stay.

    Raffia Sling Backpack

    Beis Raffia Sling Backpack
    $48.00 AT NORDSTROM.COM

    This natural woven backpack has an adjustable sling strap, so you can stay hands -free in high style.

    Leather Backpack With Chain

    Maje Leather Backpack With Chain
    $410.00 AT MAJE.COM

    Fringe is always a good idea.

    Ripstop Nylon Color-Block Backpack

    Tory Sport Ripstop Nylon Color-Block Backpack
    $248.00 AT TORYBURCH.COM

    Whether you're hiking on the mountainside or home from the grocery store, this colorful backpack is constructed from super-lightweight and durable ripstop nylon that won't weigh you down.

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    Marie Claire Newsletter

    The ultimate daily digest for women of power, purpose, and style.

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Julia Gall
    Julia Gall
    Social Links Navigation
    Creative Consultant, Stylist, and Writer

    Julia Gall is a creative consultant, stylist, and writer. She is the former Style Director at Marie Claire where she covered all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability.

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