INTER-Picks: Backpacks

 

Maybe everyone’s arms are just getting tired, but the backpack is making a comeback. And though the double shoulder straps have always been something of a compromise in style, you don’t have to give in and dig out your monogrammed L.L. Bean from middle school. The backpack has shrugged off its nylon shell and moved into a future of leather and canvas. From left to right: For casual, seaside look, try Bill Amberg’s Selvage canvas clipper bag in olive. The canvas drawstring backpack is trimmed in white leather, excellent for the beach. It also comes with an assortment of stencils and patches so you can customize your new bag ($220 at Bill Amberg). If your syle is more on the vintage or rugged side, you might want to throw on the Archival Clothing rucksack. This eco-friendly, unbelievably durable bag, made of waxed canvas, has leather and brass details and will not only last forever but look better with age ($256). Finally, this Kris Van Assche ($1,134) version, in black leather, is the perfect example of the modern, urban backpack. There is no way you’ll get mistaken for a hiker with this bag–it features two handles in addition to the back straps, which means it can go from work to the gym. No man purses here: function and style can now live in harmony…on your back.