PPB February 2018

Prepare For Takeoff With Bags That Are Practical and Stylish “Handbags are becoming both smaller and larger,” adds Terry Scheller, president of New England Leather Accessories, Inc. (PPAI 111529). “The small ones carry the essentials for a party or a quick trip to the grocery store. The small bags fit into the larger ones with plenty of space leftover for papers and folders.” Hands-free functionality seems to be one solution to the multi- tasking requirement. This includes the popular crossbody style as well as belt bags and wristlets. Men are sporting the hands-free look, too, wearing “waist bags” (or fanny packs, if you dare) both as a belt accessory and across the shoulder, reminiscent of the messenger bag. According to the Tassen Museum, the largest museum of bags in the world, this style is a return to the 1500s, when men attached pouches to their belts. This look went the way of the caveman once pockets were invented at the close of the 16th century, but it’s making a comeback. “Because smartphones and tablets are finally too big to fit in guys’ pockets, the men’s bag is definitely happening,” declares Amy Shih, chief operations officer for supplier Goodhope Bags (PPAI 133341). “Men will start to carry bags in the form of hands- free, crossbody, multifunctional fanny packs or sling packs.” Bag marketers have also successfully targeted the needs of overscheduled men with the introduction of backpacks that are suitable for the office and practical for the gym and weekend. In many industries and office spaces, specialty backpacks manufactured with high-end materials have made the briefcase look decidedly outdated. Once sold exclusively to hikers and campers, the backpack has been reinvented and continues to grow in popularity. The Wall Street Journal reports that sales of men’s backpacks increased five percent to $864 million between August 2016 and August 2017. The trend toward high-end materials and the accompanying perception of promotional products as gifts rather than giveaways is influencing bags in a big way. As an example, Elliot Goldman, owner of supplier Liberty Bags (PPAI 273140), says they are introducing a revolutionary new bag from their Hardware series that does not stain, even if red wine is spilled on it. “We see a trend in the fact that extreme quality continues to sell,” says Goldman. “There’s been a large uptick in pricier, well-made pieces.” In the fashion industry, bags have long been an important mark of the wearer’s personality. Looking ahead, consumers will continue to demand stylish options, but retailers should be careful not to prioritize form over function. Both men and women want options that are on-trend, in alignment with their personal brand and are ready for anything. This rip-stop nylon shopping tote stuffs into its own sewn-in pouch for easy storage. With reinforced seams for extra durability, it carries up to 40 pounds but weighs almost nothing. This long-lasting tote also fits supermarket checkout holders for convenient grocery bagging. All In One / PPAI 111343 www.allinoneline.com The Vera Bradley Weekender has everything a great travel bag needs. There’s a large central compartment and enough pockets to keep all your necessities organized. The Weekender features a trolley sleeve and a sturdy, removable base. And with Vera Bradley signature patterns, you’ll be traveling in style. Top Brands, Inc. / PPAI 113144 / www.top-brands.com The Champion Phoenix Backpack features a large main zippered compartment that is great for storage. It has padded, adjustable and ventilated shoulder straps for comfort and a top carry handle for convenience. This backpack comes in three colors, including black, charcoal and new charcoal/black. Kati Sportcap & Bag / PPAI 113758 www.katisportcap.com | FEBRUARY 2018 | 35 GROW