Schoolgirl Inspiration: Swap Your Handbag For A Backpack

         When you think of a backpack your mind probably rewinds to an image of yourself in sixth or seventh grade toting around a Jansport or Northface that weighed even more than you at the time. As resilient as you may be to do so, for style’s sake, I am going to ask you to shirk that image and reopen your mind to backpacks as both a cute and practical fashion find.

         As adorable as that giant Longchamp tote may be and as chic as your Prada satchel may look, those bags can be quite a nuisance to lug around. Who wants to drag a giant designer bag to the beach?  If you’re travelling in an airport, wouldn’t you rather have your hands free? Not all backpacks are what you might consider trendy or chic, so I’m not saying to go out and buy another clunky, awkward school bag. Instead, choose from one of the following cute and original styles.

FLORALS

     If you want your pack to be both pretty and unique, strap on a floral bag. Vera Bradley makes backpacks in all different shapes and sizes, with big pockets, little pockets, and in a myriad of colors. The fabric is super soft, so you can say goodbye to any itchy Velcro you fussed with in middle school.

(photo: Vera Bradley, $98)

 

 

BOHO

            Flowers aren’t your thing, but hippie chic is? Choose a slouchy bag with funky patterns and vibrant embroidery. Tassles, drawstrings, and cool pockets are fun additions. 

(photo: Urban Outfitters,$59)

 

 

NEON

            Love bright, attention-grabbing colors? Opt for a striking, neon pack in electric pink, highlighter yellow, or lime green. 

(photo: Urban Outfitters, $32)

 

 

ELEGANT

            If none of the above have convinced you to make the switch from satchel to school bag, and you’re still inseparable from that Kate Spade clutch or Michael Kors messenger, don’t fear. You can have your elegance and wear it too. Slip on a super sleek, patent leather pack with quilted detailing.

(photo: ASOS.com, $66.28)

 

 

        And, if anyone scoffs at your for wearing a backpack instead of shouldering a Chanel original,  feel free to get in touch with your inner middle schooler and tell them to “talk to the hand”, or in this case, to your back. I can guarantee that as soon as you start walking away they’ll understand your super cute bag swap.

Featured image from: Urbanoutfitters.com

Tags: accessories, backpacks, big pockets, different shapes, drawstrings, funky patterns, jansport, northface, satchel, seventh grade, shapes and sizes, vera bradley

Category: DIY / Inspiration