Buying bags based on seasonal trends was once an exclusively female pastime. But then again, so was giving a damn about what you wear at all.

Designers from the high street to the high-end are continually developing their understanding of what men want from a carrier, and repackaging this knowledge into updated designs every six months.

So if you’re toting around a battered old bag that’s seen better days, it’s time to overhaul your receptacles with one of AW17’s key bag trends.

Tactile Backpacks

In recent years, the luxury backpack has cemented itself as a stylish yet utilitarian method for carting everyday kit to the gym, airport and even work.

Sleek versions (think black leather) continue to offer the perfect balance between practical and sophisticated, but for AW17 the style is taking on a more rugged, tactile vibe in earthy colours and materials such as suede and canvas.

“Everyone is wearing a rucksack these days, so go for one that will get better with age,” says Alison Lloyd, founder of British accessories brand Ally Capellino.

For a more fashion-forward purchase, Sophie Milner, a men’s accessories buyer at Urban Outfitters, suggests taking cues from the runways. “The backpack is a great way to incorporate this season’s key colours into a look subtly. Opt for yellow [or green] to nod to the upcoming trend of citrus shades.”

For a more casual approach, consider getting strappy with a PE-kit-style drawstring bag instead. Dublin-born brand Stighlorgan recently launched a version cut from high-quality leather. “It’s understated yet simply functional,” says director Christian Bourke. “Maybe back during our school days, we all used to understand a little better that simple really is best.”

Key Styles

Utility Holdalls

Weekend bags have had a similar facelift for AW17. While there’s only so much experimenting that can be done with a practical carry-all before it loses purpose, swapping a plain overnight bag for something more interesting will take the style stakes of a trip away up a notch.