The Great Man-Bag Debate

The concept of the man-purse is an ongoing debate in fashion and style, and no one can seem to agree on whether it's a fashion-forward convenience or a fashion faux pas. Men's handbags and purses are all the norm in Europe, and Americans from larger metropolis cities have been catching on to this trend as of late. No, I do not expect some rural Cowboy from Montana to be sporting this trend any time soon, but men throughout such cities as New York and Los Angeles have been wearing this trend in the most masculine ways possible. From crossbody messenger bags, oversized clutches, briefcases and fanny packs, these are some of the varieties in man-purse-wear.  

Here is the Rebecca Minkoff Rendezvous Clutch in Ostrich!

Last week's Rebecca Minkoff sample sale in LA was one destination where a man can rummage through the sea of oogling women, and unexpectedly find a treasure in handbag-heaven. Calvin Wang was one man seen at the Rebecca Minkoff sample sale, and he happened to find the Croc Embossed Rendevous Clutch. Without the typical stud and chain embellishments that usually come on Rebecca Minkoff's clutch-designs, Wang found himself a man-bag that "looks like a briefcase...[that] is easy to carry and simple." Wang says he wanted something he could carry "to work...would fit two cell phones, books, and documents." Evidently men want to rid their pockets of extra bulk too, and with a bag in hand from Rebecca Minkoff, Wang wants to look amazingly stylish as well.

So the question is presented: is the man-purse a fashion faux pas or a stylish convenience? The concept of men holding a handbag is most definitely a fashion-forward convenience so long as they are not going through their girlfriends' closets searching for the latest hobo style with excessive tassels. The minute a man decides to wear a Jimmy Choo Shopper or Louis Vuitton Speedy handheld is the minute the man-purse is a fashion faux pas. There is a fine line to walk for men in handbags, but with careful consideration and attention to detail and style, the man-purse will be acknowledged as the man-bag.

The Oversized Wallet by Khirma Eliazov is one great option for a man-bag. Designed in a masculine color palet and materials, this army green leather and sting ray clutch is a great for carrying such man-essentials as keys, money, cards, and phone.

L.A.M.B.'s Freestyle Torsten Crossbody Bag is a cool way to tote around man-things from place to place. For a guy on the go, this man-bag is perfect for throwing around the shoulder or body and take off. Although this crossbody is made by L.A.M.B., which is targeted for women, it is hardly feminine and sweet with its clean and minimal design.