[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?"
"Doesn't a man wearing a shoulder bag look a bit uncool?"
Have you ever felt anxious after seeing such comments on social media or in search results?
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 okay for men to carry tote bags?" and provide tips for choosing a bag that won't go wrong.
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's showroom.
However, it's also true that some age groups still have the impression that "they are women's accessories."
Especially from men in their 60s and 70s, I sometimes get questions like, "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 and create a sophisticated impression.
3 tips for men to carry tote bags stylishly
1. Keep it "simple" in appearance
Choose a bag with a simple design rather than one with many intricate decorations.
As a guideline, if you limit the number of colors used in your entire outfit, including the bag, to three or fewer, you'll create a unified and sophisticated impression.
For example, if your entire outfit is monochrome, it's okay to add a slightly different color to your bag, such as a brown tone.
However, be careful if the bag itself has too many color changes, as this can make the overall look uncoordinated.
2. Material changes the impression significantly
Material selection 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, etc., making it easier to convey a sense of professionalism and trust to others.
Conversely, for days off or casual attire, canvas or nylon bags also work well, creating a softer impression.
3. If using for business, consider the "color"
When carrying a bag in a business setting, "color" is an important point, not just the material.
Bright or flashy designs can stand out negatively, so it's safer to choose subdued colors like black, dark brown, or navy.
You probably understand the feeling of "going to a sales meeting with a shocking pink tote bag is a bit much."
Of course, some people can pull it off as a matter of individuality, but if you're unsure, start with basic colors.
Summary: The impression of a tote bag changes depending on how you "choose" it
Finally, here are the key points for men to keep in mind when carrying a tote bag:
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Point ①: Choose a simple design
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Point ②: Use different materials depending on the occasion
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Point ③: Choose subdued colors for business
→ Limit colors to 3, minimal embellishments are best
→ Leather for business, nylon or canvas for casual is fine
→ Black, navy, dark brown, etc., are safe choices
"I'm not confident in my fashion sense, but I don't want to look uncool."
If that describes you, please use the tips introduced here to find the perfect tote bag for yourself.
HushTug offers a selection of simple and elegant leather tote bags.
If you're interested, please take a look.
Leather Tote Black
▼ Related videos here ▼
In addition to our online store, HushTug also has physical stores.
The tote bags introduced here can be seen and touched in person. You can also purchase new items on the spot, so please feel free to stop by.
※Only cashless payments are accepted. Please note that cash payments are not available.
