Having been back in style for a few seasons now, the backpack continues to be a staple of urban life for modern men and women. Whether it’s colourful, minimalist, leather or fabric, backpacks are back and are as cool as they are chic. Here are the trendiest Montreal shops to find your new accessory. [Image credit: iStock.com/ ArthurHidden]
Open since October 2015 on Ste-Catherine, COS is the high-end division, for men and women, of the Swedish giant H&M. Like all of its clothing collections, its accessories are known for their minimalism and timelessness. With neutral shades, the modern and functional backpacks offer quality design at an affordable price that lasts more than one season.
Head towards Holt Renfrew on Sherbrooke for backpacks for women by luxury brands such as Alexander McQueen, MCM, Longchamp and Rag & Bone. These stylish sacks will enhance daily life with their utility and great looks. I’ve fallen for the studded micro backpack by Rebecca Minkoff, absolutely cute and very trendy! And the modern gentleman is not left out, with models by designers Salvatore Ferragamo, MCM and Uri Minkoff.
You can always count on Zara to deliver the latest trends. And accessories are no exception! For women, you can choose between a tropical, printed backpack (my favourite), or a wide range with fringes, tassels or metallic details, of various shapes and colours. For men, the backpack is micro-perforated, rectangular or bundle-style, cross-body, with a reptile look, a worn look, or in assorted materials in shades of black, white, beige or navy. Which one will you choose?
Frank & Oak offers different backpacks in canvas and premium quality leather, designed for the active man. First designed for function and durability, these backpacks are not lacking in style. Indigo, sand, tan or black ... it’s your choice, and all at a reasonable price!
Located on Sherbrooke in Westmount, WANT offers timeless and practical accessories (WANT Les essentielsl) for modern men and women. With its monochromatic design, the collection of backpacks for women beautifully blends function, femininity and details. I love the Mini Piper, a clay-coloured bag with white dots. Men will rejoice at the backpacks equipped with an inside pocket for a notebook/laptop computer, as well as a pocket for a key chain and another secret pocket.
Fans of the rebellious Dr Martens must stop in at the eponymous store on Ste-Catherine. They will not be disappointed, with plenty of beautiful backpacks in square and rectangular shapes, made from their signature leather, the same used for their iconic shoes. Different colours are available: white, cherry, green, navy and black. For a sportier look, other models made of nylon and canvas complete the collection.