The New IT Bag: The Manbag

As we look to Fall you can expect to see a new it bag emerge. This year, however, the Givenchy nightingale, the Proenza Schouler PS11 and Gaga personalized Birkins are going to have to share the spotlight with the strongest growing segment of the accessory market: The Manbag.

According to Euromonitor, men’s luxury bags in the U.S. are projected to grow 23% through 2013. Retailers like Saks and Barneys are said to be adding a full range of competitively priced private-label men’s satchels, purses and messenger bags for spring 2011. A general manager for a local Neiman Marcus said, "We do not call them man bags, however, there is a focus on more messenger and backpack styles as seen on the runway this season."



Okay, so your man isn't going to be carrying a jeweled clutch any time soon, but you can count on him needing to load his iPad and gadgets into something other than a geek bag. Murses are more likely to come in the shape of a messenger bag, duffel or briefcase, according to Pete Lafferty, one of the founders of Libero Ferrero, a line of artisan men's accessories that will be available in stores starting in Spring 2011 and range in price from $700 to $2,500.

Men seem to shy away from logos more than a woman in recession-mode, according to Pete. Understated bags from Ferragamo, Zenga, Prada and Gucci are current favorites, but Pete says we should keep an eye on companies like Billy Kirk and London-based Jas M.B.

Oh, you know, we are just dreaming of the day when we can handoff our keys and wallet so that we can downsize our bags.