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| DKNY Messenger- this one's got it all, cream colour, bad-boy detailing and retro quilting. |
My theory about this lack of popularity is that most women consider messengers too masculine a look, and most men feel they're too feminine. This leaves a rather small legion of fans comprised solely of very fashion-forward ladies, gay men and college professors (who are attracted to worn leather and heritage emblems like moths to a flame).
The messenger has never achieved popularity because it appeals to both demographics, and as a result, neither. Everyone is just too self-conscious to make the unisex stand of wearing a messenger bag.
Well, I've got a memo for everybody: WE ALREADY KNOW WHAT GENDER YOU ARE.
Besides, in these 21st century days, with Lady Gaga, the pop super-star of our time, bending preconceived gender ideas and stereotypes, isn't it time for us all to get a little more cool?
In addition to being cool, messengers are distinctly classy as well. Why? Well firstly, it shows you're not overtly frivolous, and that you understand the reality of needing a medium-sized bag for you belongings as well as a shoulder-strap in case you are required to do a bit of running or biking or the like. Secondly, the classic and subtle features of the messenger bag let on that you like looking good, but not in an ostentatious or over-the-top way. Lastly, the messenger bag gives you a bit of intelligence cred through its collegiate look and reputation.
Besides, messengers are so hot this season they are literally starting fires in high class department stores all over the world. You don't want to be left in the stylish dust do you?
No? Good.
So go forth, purchase. My tip? Search vintage men's wear first. That's where you'll find the styles that are most in vogue today, for comparatively cheap prices. Below are some designer favourites from Net-a-Porter, including the now-famous Raspberry Proenza Schouler messenger. But before that, some things to look for in your messenger:
- Worn leather
- Tall bags (the extra fabric flops over to close the bag)
- Zippers and chains
- Minimalist simplicity and utility
- Retro quilting
- Pops of rich colour (in some cases)
- Neutral colours (for the most part)
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| J. Crew Messenger- this bag could potentially be taller then me. |
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| The famous Proenza Schouler raspberry messenger- the colour is integral. |
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| The functional Mulberry messenger- it has a classic beauty, doesn't it? |
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| Sara Berman's punky little take-off on the trend- wait, it's studded AND has quilting? She is blowing my mind. |
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| The Marni messenger- neutral yet a bit rebellious, looks like a runaway's dream satchel. |
