men's fashion and style: men's bags and why you need to bag them

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A long time ago, men needed bags when they a. travel and b. deliver mail. Not much use for bags, I know. But fast-forward to the present, to this day and age, and we find not just the modern man, but also the alpha male. While the modern man rethinks theories about his species, the alpha male shows us how. And bag-wise, it's like this. The modern man has bags, buys bags and actually uses them. On the other hand, the alpha male has THE bags, buys THE bags and actually flaunts them. The modern man is fashionable, the alpha male is fashion- forward. And no fear, both categories are gender-dysphoria-safe. And besides, stereotype-dwelling individuals are no longer given the time of day because, if you don't know yet, it was found that conservatism and archaeology are two different things.

Below are different kids, types, of bags that you may consider having. Alright let's make that I wish you would consider having. Although each bag has its own particular use, there are no boarding school-strict rules when it comes to crossing over or interchangeability. The operative word is common sense. Like you don't bring a man-purse to the gym or a luggage set to the boardroom.

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luggage/luggate sets

The days of the 'cardboard box as luggage' are long over, so move on...and with style. Luggages now come in sets, with overnighters, uprights, suitcases and smaller receptacles for your hand-carries. They also come with wheels and retractable handles. You can also opt for just a piece of the set but consider what suits your needs. But it's always better to have options.

carryall/holdall

From the duffel bags of your come the carryalls. As the name suggests, this bag was created for taking care of what you would be needing for a day or two in the country or a conference in Vegas. Typically made of leather, the carryall defines a man's refinement and puts the class in classy.

postman/messenger bag

Slung across the body, this bag has crossed boundaries - from the academe to biometricised saltmines to Starbucks. Yep, it has been the bag of choice for the man about town and beyond. And options abound in terms of style and material used - but leather tops my list.

body bag

Not to be confused with 'cadaver pouches', body bags are also worn like the messenger bag only that they are structured to slightly hug the body. There are even those that are contoured like a body brace for a more secure feel.

tote

Another bag that affords the owner versatility is the tote. Carrying on from where the briefcases landed, the tote morphed the hardy handles of the former to soft and less rigid grips and replaced the boxy exterior to a more relaxed facade.

gym/duffel bag

Almost always cylindrical, the gym bag is a must have for the fitness buff. No other kind of bag belongs to the gym as this bag because of its compartmentalized interior - think wet towels, energy drinks, cellphone. Also, they now come in various styles and are no longer confined to that 'off to war' aura.

camera/pouch bag

The pockets of your jeans can only hold so much paraphernalia and cargo pants are things of the past if you're not a carpenter. And because these are actually facts of life, get a camera bag if you think a messenger bag is too roomy. Styles range from laid back canvas, to chic clubbing leather.

briefcase

Like this Prada calfskin briefcase on the right, modern briefcases do bring the man who lugs them power that is not hard on the eyes as sharp edges have been replaced with stylish but manly curves and the sheen of the buckles raises the flair factor level. It's about time that you return to your father his briefcase even if you inherited his business.

man-purse

Alright, the man-purse is probably the skinny jeans of men's accessories. Yes, they're the hardest to sell. But hear me out. The man-purse is bigger than the average wallet, therefore can hold your breath freshener, your passport and other IDs, the um, 'raincoat', loose change and probably your toothbrush and some 'mini-mized' toiletries, too.

knapsack/backpack

The knapsack is the ultimate rugged bag. Though their style have been rethought, they are still worn the same way and their basic structure has been retained. Moreover, they are still popular in campuses because of their very roomy interior and uncumbersome appeal. Make the knapsack bigger, add more compartments and insert metal frames, and voila, you have a backpack.

laptop bag

If you have a laptop, it is mandatory that you have a laptop bag. 'Nuff said.

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some care tips

If you like your bags or they cost you big bucks, the key to maintaining their appearance and thereby prolonging their um lives is proper cleaning and storage.

Leather is prone to mold and bacteria that may lead to sooner than expected wear and tear. Store your bags in breathable cloth/fabric bags and as far away as possible from any possible source of heat like direct sunlight. Do not use plastic bags as they are conducive to bacterial growth. When cleaning, use damp cloth and remember to not use cleaning agents as alcohol and other chemicals might cause dullness or discoloration. Keep in mind that perfumes also contain alcohol. For tougher stains, apply chalk powder and let stay for at least a day before dusting off.

As for canvas bags, do not wash and hang. Direct application of water causes the canvas to lose its shape. Yes, they are tougher than leather but they can also be ruined. Cloth or sponge dipped in a water and fabric condition solution (a mild amount would suffice) and thoroughly wrung (damp not wet) would take care of the dust or mold.

When your bags are not in use, specially for a lengthier than usual period, stuff them with crumpled paper to keep them in proper shape and prevent wrinkling or creasing. You may also cover the metallic parts to avoid abrasions.

For more extensive 'how-to's' ask the salesperson or the store manager where you bought your bag or check out the manufacturer/designer's web site for more specific care tips.

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