Backpacks can be so much more than a back-to-school necessity. They’re a hands-free way to tote all your essentials — and look cool doing it. While still providing all the utility of a trusty book bag, backpacks are sleek, polished and playful. Let these street stylists school you on the best ways to wear a backpack this season, along with a few choice finds you’ll want to scoop up stat.
[ 23 Chic Backpacks You Can Lean on Even When School’s Not in Session ]
Street Style: Backpacks (Runway Manhattan)
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Watch Your Back
Called Eyes Right, Anya Hindmarch’s creation definitely lands on the high end of the adorable spectrum. Sling this cutie over your shoulders and rest assured that wherever you go, it’ll be looking out for you.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Chase
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Tea Time
This blush ASOS bag polished off blogger Sarah Bianchi’s pastel ensemble. Together with bright buttercup shoes and a patchwork dress, the gold clasped item was dainty enough for a tea party.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Paolo Diletto
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Cadet Tol
Blogger Linda Tol’s icy tresses looked chicer than ever topping off this sophisticated outfit. Her martial Max Mara suit was spiced up by striped sleeves peeking out at her cuffs, tinted sunglasses and a cherry Chanel backpack.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
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Pretty and Polished
Bundled up for New York Fashion Week, blogger Natalie Ast looked lovely with an Alexander Wang backpack dangling from one shoulder. A furry purse charm decorating the classy leather piece nicely complemented her rosy layers, which she topped off with a floppy felt hat.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
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Chic Coordination
Fashion Director of Vogue Ukraine Julie Pelipas picked out an Alexander McQueen skirt and vest combo of olive-toned leather embellished with fur. Shiny black Balenciaga boots coordinated well with a refined bag from the same label.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Celine Gaille
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Casual Cool
Snapped in Boston, this woman embodied the city’s relaxed, practical style sense. Sturdy enough to serve as hiking gear, a rustic Zebella backpack matched her brown leather boots and belt.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Chase
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Creative Contrast
Dramatically torn denim was juxtaposed with a plush sweater in this versatile look. A bright Vere Verto backpack struck the perfect balance between these contrastingly edgy and luxurious pieces.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Chase
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Funky Fun
Glitter go-go boots, fishnet stockings and a jean jacket plastered with playful patches came together in this funky outfit. Featuring quilted leather panels, a knapsack threw in even more personality along with dramatic eyes and ruby lips.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Koji Hirano
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Wild Whimsy
A rhino complete with wiggly ears decorated the flap of the bag tamed by stylist Alessandra Huynh. She rolled the cuffs of her boyfriend jeans and was ready to go in this wild ensemble.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
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Stylist Standout
This fashion girl strode through New York with a Louis Vuitton micro purse at her side. Backed by a flowy dress and earthy boots, the iconic brown print made this backpack unmissable.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Chase
