The backpack is chic again! Who knew? Sure, there has been the literal, runway translation of the elementary school essential—from the shiny green utilitarian rucksack at Marc Jacobs spring 2015 to the college rebel version from Chanel during spring 2014 that was spray-painted, distressed, and embellished. But it is this frozen-over fashion week in which the student favorite has graduated with a sleeker and smaller makeover. Look to Sofia Sanchez de Betak, who has been snapped on the frigid streets with the yet-to-be-released M2Malletier M2 backpack from fall-winter 2015—the piece acts more like the cleverest purse in the world than the standard bulky hallway-blocker. Plus, its easy-grab proportions allow the wearer to sling it over their shoulder en route to work, but later leisurely carry it as a traditional purse into the office. And when you are pounding the pavement in single-digit temps, what better transformative carryall than one that fits the essentials while allowing you to be hands-free (and sans the frosty finger tips of a bag-strap clutcher)? Here, see seven refreshing takes on backpacks that will give you the coolest look on the block.
Photo: Courtesy of matchesfashion.com1/7Balenciaga Le Dix leather backpack, $1,872;
Photo: Courtesy of neimanmarcus.com2/7Marni color-block leather parachute backpack, $1,640;
Photo: Courtesy of mbergdorfgoodman.com3/7Brunello Cucinelli Monili chain-trim tote-backpack, $3,610;
