Despite what anyone says, the type of bag you carry speaks volumes about you. A satchel bag is one such piece of accessory you’ve seen routinely but perhaps haven’t felt confident enough to embrace.
Satchel bags date way back to the Roman Empire. So, why should you even bother with one now? Here’s everything you need to know about what you may be missing out on.
What is a Satchel Bag?
A satchel is a flat-bottomed, structured, mid-size to large bag that comes with handles and a long, cross-body strap. They’re commonly mistaken for messenger bags, truth be told though, they couldn’t be more different!
Satchels typically mimic the form of the body, whereas messenger bags don’t. They’re made from thinner, softer leather, while messenger bags are usually sown from waxed canvas.
Additionally, Parisian satchel bags, for example, are meant to rest on the hip while worn. Messenger bags, however, are usually rested on the lower back. These may seem like minor differences, but it never hurts to know your fashion terms.
A Brief History of the Satchel Bag
Satchels have been around longer than you’d like to believe. Scottish monks in the 300 AD would frequently carry their Bibles in them. However, it wasn’t until the 1700s that schoolboys began using satchels to carry their books.
Despite the significant time that’s passed between then and now, one thing remains true: satchels are practical and versatile accessories that don’t deserve to die just yet. And the best part? They’re unisex!
Materials to Look Out For
Leather
Whether it’s a men’s or a women’s satchel bag, leather is a classic choice. You simply cannot go wrong with it — there’s absolutely no way! It’s timeless, versatile, ages gracefully and above all, it’s going to last you years to come.
Nylon
While nylon may not be your first choice of material for a satchel bag, especially one you plan on getting as a staple — hear us out. Leather is expensive, and if you’re testing the waters to decide whether a satchel is your cup of tea, you probably want to get something that isn’t as costly. Not to mention, it’s great for unpredictable weather and doubles as a gym bag!
Canvas
Canvas doubles as an alternative to leather. So, if you’re going for that chic, rustic look but don’t want to fish out a ton of bucks, canvas is a great option. It’s lightweight, easier to maintain and can be treated for waterproofing.
Choosing the Right Colour
Neutrals for the Win
When you’re investing in a long-term satchel bag, it’s important your choice of colour reflects your decision. Neutrals go with practically anything and everything. We’re talking black, beige, cream, brown, grey — you name it. A black satchel bag is likely to go with a lot more outfits than an ‘out there’ colour.
Single Colour Glory
How many times have you splurged on a pair of funky, multi-coloured shoes and instantly regretted it because you’re not able to wear them as much? The same principle applies to a women’s satchel bag. Sticking to one colour is likely to get you your bang for the buck.
How to Style a Satchel Bag
Handbag trends have evolved considerably over the years. However, whether you’re styling satchel kipling bags or a laptop satchel bag, the rules are pretty much the same.
Play Around with Proportions
If you’re styling a big satchel bag, let it balance your outfit. You can either pair the slouchy silhouette with a flowy skirt, or a pair of your favourite skinny jeans.
Satchel Goes Formal
When you think of satchels, what comes to mind? A man in formal wear is probably not it. But hey, a men’s leather satchel messenger bag makes for the perfect accessory to wear to an upscale gathering!
You can pick out a luxurious material such as leather, canvas or even suede and pair it with a well-fitted 3-piece tuxedo. With all the ladies swooning over you, you’ll be thanking us later!
Change the Straps
Contrary to popular belief, you can own a timeless piece and still switch it up. It’s simple really: change the straps! Take a long, hard look at your satchel bag pattern and ask yourself what would make it pop. You can opt for an all-leather strap, chain links or even double-clasp chains — the possibilities are endless.
Accessorize
We probably don’t have to tell you this, but accessorising your satchel bag can really make it pop. Whether it’s a scarf tied around the handle, a charm hanging from the zipper, or fun enamel pins, you can really make it your own.
Finding the Right Satchel
When you think of an everyday bag, a satchel bag may not strike as a good option at first, but its practicality and versatility say otherwise. Why do we love a good satchel so much? It’s bold, daring, unisex and demands to be seen — that’s why.
Are you ready to add to your collection? You’ll wonder how you lived so long without one! Still, dabbling with the thought? Why not head over to our selection of gently used luxury handbags while you sleep on them?