6 Backpacks I Always See Cool People Wearing on My Commute

If there’s one item that's received an haute makeover from the highest fashion powers that we’re truly grateful for, it’s the backpack. Once just the preserve of hikers and students, you never used to be able to find a sleek, grown-up version for love nor money. But all that’s changed. The backpack can be luxe (see Gucci and Whistles in our edit below), practical (Fjällräven's Kanken holds more than you thought possible), in keeping with your signature style, and best of all—covetable.

Want a black, suitably businessy version with gold hardware? No problem. Or what about a throwback '90s option in bright pink? We’ve got just the thing. A few choice styles have become so useful (whilst still looking chic) that they've become noticeable favourites around London, and surely beyond.

Great for dashing around the city, a rucksack has the obvious benefits of being better for your back than a tote stuffed with everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it works well with smart trainers for a look that’s contemporary and pragmatic.

We suggest packing a small pouch with just your essentials for easy-to-reach convenience—keys, phone, purse, etc., then leave the bulky stuff housed in the main compartment.

Now all that’s left to do is decide on The One. Scroll through our gallery of the best backpacks for women below—they're all the cult styles I see ALL the time. Trust us, being hands-free never looked so good.

Whistles Verity

Whistles' Verity backpack first when boom back in 2014 and it has been reissued every season since. The larger styles are roomy enough for your laptop and gym kit, making them the sleekest option out there for the woman constantly on the go. 

Longchamp Le Pliage

We now see women toting Longchamp's Le Pliage backpack just as much as the iconic tote. Choose a tonal hue—like honey or khaki—to ensure it'll go with most of your wardrobe. Of course, you can always rely on the black or navy colourways also. 

Dr. Martens Satchel

With a classic satchel shape and the same quality leather we've come to associate with Dr. Martens' boots, this is a backpack that'll still be looking it's best in a decade's time. 

Gucci GG Marmont

Gucci bags are still in high demand, with the backpack iteration of the brand's Marmont style fast becoming one of its best sellers. Every day will feel luxe when you're wearing one of the below. 

Prada Nylon

Prada's fabric backpacks gained cult-status in the '90s, and last year they started to reappear on the street style scene, too. Keep things classic with one of the multi-pocket options or go for something fresh in fuchsia. 

Fjällräven Kanken

Fjällräven's Kanken is tipped to be the world's best-selling backpack, which comes as no surprise to us considering it is available to buy in not one, not two but over 38 colour ways. These are three of our favourites. 

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Now, check out the jackets you should be wearing underneath your backpack this season.