[HushTug] I heard that men's tote bags are lame, so I asked a bag designer for his opinion!
"Aren't tote bags for women?"
"Isn't a man wearing a shoulder bag a bit uncool?"
Have you ever seen such comments on social media or in search results and felt uneasy?
My name is Nakajima, and I'm in charge of product planning at HushTug, a Japanese leather brand.
This time, I'd like to answer the question, "Is it acceptable for men to carry tote bags?" and share some tips on how to choose a bag that won't disappoint.
Is it true that "men with tote bags are uncool"?
To put it simply, that's not true at all. It's perfectly fine for men to carry tote bags.
In fact, I use one myself, and many male customers purchase tote bags at HushTug showrooms.
Nevertheless, it's true that some people, depending on their age group, "have the impression that it's a woman's item."
Especially men in their 60s and 70s sometimes ask, "Is it okay for a man to carry a tote bag?"
Because some people are concerned about such impressions, just a little attention to how you carry and choose your bag can make a big difference in creating a more sophisticated look.
3 Tips for Men to Carry Tote Bags Stylishly
1. Simplicity is Key for Appearance
Choose a bag with a simple design rather than one with many elaborate decorations.
As a guideline, keeping the number of colors in your entire outfit, including your bag, to three or fewer will create a sense of unity and a sophisticated impression.
For example, if your entire outfit is monochrome, it's okay to add a slightly different color like brown to your bag.
However, be careful if there are too many color changes within the bag itself, as this can make the overall look uncoordinated.
2. Material Changes the Impression Dramatically
Choosing the right material is also very important.
For example, if you're using it in a business setting, leather material is definitely recommended.
Leather has a more luxurious feel than nylon, making it easier to convey a sense of professionalism and trust to others.
Conversely, for days off or casual wear, canvas or nylon bags also work well and can create a softer impression.
3. For Business Use, Consider the "Color Tone"
When carrying a bag in a business setting, "color" is an important factor, not just the material.
Bright or flashy designs can stand out in a negative way, so it's best to choose subdued colors such as black, dark brown, or navy.
You probably understand the feeling of "it would be a bit much to go to a business meeting with a shocking pink tote bag."
Of course, some people can make it work as a statement of individuality, but if you're unsure, it's best to start with basic colors.
Summary: Tote bags can change your impression depending on how you choose them
Finally, here are the key points to consider when men carry tote bags.
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Tip ①: Choose a simple design
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Tip ②: Differentiate materials according to the occasion
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Tip ③: Choose subdued colors for business
→ Keep colors to 3 or fewer, with minimal embellishments.
→ Leather for business, nylon or canvas for casual use.
→ Black, navy, dark brown, etc., are safe choices.
"I'm not confident about being fashionable, but I don't want to look uncool."
If that describes you, please use the tips introduced here to find a tote bag that suits you.
HushTug offers a range of simple and classic leather tote bags.
If you're interested, please take a look.
Leather Tote Black
▼Related video here▼
In addition to its online store, HushTug also has physical stores.
You can actually pick up and examine the tote bags introduced here. You can also purchase new items on the spot, so please feel free to stop by.
※We only accept cashless payments. Please note that cash payments are not accepted.