A new era where men carry more than just essentials

At Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel show during Paris Fashion Week, Pedro Pascal arrived in effortless style—sharp suit, easy charm, and a sleek purse slung at his side. What could once have sparked laughter now earned nods of admiration. The moment marked more than just another viral fashion sighting—it was the latest chapter in the rise of the man bag, an accessory that has become a defining symbol of self-assured, boundary-free style in 2025.

The evolution of a once-laughed-at accessory
The conversation around men and handbags has evolved dramatically. What was once viewed as a novelty—Joey Tribbiani’s infamous “man purse” in Friends, for instance—is now a global trend embraced by some of fashion’s biggest icons. Hollywood’s leading men, from Jacob Elordi to A$AP Rocky, and Bollywood’s own Karan Johar, have all taken to the accessory with ease and elegance, dismantling stereotypes one bag at a time.

Confidence stitched into every seam
The appeal lies not only in the aesthetic but also in the attitude. Whether it’s a structured top-handle, a slouchy tote, or a sleek clutch, the man bag reflects versatility and modern confidence. Luxury fashion houses have noticed too—crafting designs that blend practicality with polish, allowing these accessories to transcend gendered categories.

Trailblazers redefining modern masculinity
Style pioneers like Pharrell Williams, David Beckham, Harry Styles, and Marc Jacobs have long paved the way for this moment. Beckham’s penchant for Hermès Birkins and Goyard totes, Pharrell’s love for bold, oversized designs, and Jacobs’ rotation of Chanel and Fendi pieces each underscore how individuality and expression have replaced rigid norms. These trailblazers built the foundation for a new generation of male dressers who wear their accessories as extensions of identity rather than mere embellishment.

The freedom to redefine elegance
Fashion has always mirrored cultural shifts, and the resurgence of the man bag signals a refreshing embrace of fluidity and self-expression. Today’s men are not just carrying bags—they’re carrying a message. One that celebrates confidence, creativity, and the freedom to define elegance on their own terms. The It-bag era no longer belongs solely to the It-girls—it’s a shared stage, and the men are owning it with style.

Image credits: Getty Images

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