Product of the week: The shoulder bag

What is it:

The shoulder bag has been around for centuries, but its exact origins are unknown. From Roman soldiers to Scottish monks, the bag was repeatedly adapted and changed to suit the times. Today, however, the design is distinctive and reminds most people of a classic school bag or briefcase – its main function is to carry books. Therefore, the bag features a strong structure and a boxy shape with a flat bottom. It is typically closed with a large buckle or a strap fastener.

Why you should order them:

If ever there was a bag that is considered ‘the classic’ of every wardrobe, it is the shoulder bag. Her decades-long presence in the fashion world has ensured that she has a permanent place in the catwalk collections of major fashion brands and designers every season. If you are looking for a new accessory, then the shoulder bag is always a good and safe choice. However, that doesn’t mean you have to stick to the standard classic shape – over the years, designers have experimented with the silhouette and updated it, applying their own design codes and creating new versions that make the bag attractive to modern buyers.

Where we saw them:

Shoulder bags have always been an important element in fashion brands’ accessory collections and this has not changed in the SS24 season. This season the bag appeared in a variety of shapes and materials, showing how multifaceted the look can be. At Fendi, the minimalist bag was given a crocodile-like texture and Louis Vuitton added buckles and a fabric strap, giving the bag a more casual look. Rhude and Dries Van Noten adjusted the flap of the bag, thereby changing the silhouette. The traditional shape, however, was seen at Dior Men, where the bag was modified with a branded buckle and additional embellishments.

How to style them:

The shoulder bag is a versatile bag that can be combined with almost any outfit and also offers functionality. To enhance the classic school bag aesthetic, the bag can be paired with corduroy pants, a V-neck sweater, a shirt, and an oversized blazer for an academic look. Another option would be to wear the bag with a midi dress with knee-high boots – a look popularized by influencers on Pinterest.

The shoulder bag is timeless and a classic accessory and will always be popular with consumers looking for a practical and stylish bag. Since the look of the bag is gender neutral and it has many uses, it appeals to a wide audience.

This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Pia Schulz