The retail universe is preoccupied this time of year with pushing back-to-school items. Everything from notebooks to pens to dorm decor is being advertised like crazy right now. But there’s one necessity you don’t have to be enrolled in school to sport: a backpack.
You’re probably getting visions of cartoon character designs, superhero emblems or sparkly unicorns, but backpacks don’t have to be so elementary. The key to rocking a backpack as a grown-up is to opt for ones that could be mistaken for luxury handbags, that is if they weren’t strapped on your back. (Some actually offer alternate handles to help them serve double duty.) And they’ve actually become a fashion house staple in mini, medium and large formats. Brands from Calvin Klein to Fendi to Louis Vuitton have all put out backpacks, making them a model-off-duty must-have.
Not convinced? Here are 17 backpacks for women that you can cart to work or brunch.
[ Next: 20 Too-Cool-for-School Backpacks to Shop Now ]
Backpacks for Grown-Ups
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Zac Zac Posen
Belay Calfskin Leather Backpack, $295 at Nordstrom
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Wicker Wings
Tixting Tall Rattan and Leather Backpack, $505 at Net-a-Porter
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Street Level
Black Lightweight Backpack, $46 at ASOS
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Hesperios
Hess Woven Backpack in White, $472 at Lisa Says Gah
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See By Chloe
Olga Medium Textured-Leather Backpack, $525 at Net-a-Porter
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Zara
Everyday Backpack, $29.90 at Zara
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Ganni
Wintour Backpack, $475 at Ganni
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Kara
Crinkled Metallic Small Backpack in Pyrite, $224.99 at Need Supply Co.
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Liebeskind Berlin
Medium Convertible Suede Shoulder Bag, $219.97 at Nordstrom Rack
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Urban Outfitters
Suede Mini Backpack, $59 at Urban Outfitters
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Kate Spade New York
Kingston Drive Simona Backpack, $358 at Shopbop
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Madewell
Mini Drawstring Rucksack, $148 at Shopbop
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Topshop
Double Pocket Backpack, $55 at Topshop
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Matt & Nat
Vignelli Backpack, $160 at Urban Outfitters
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Street Level
White Minimal Zip Backpack, $48 at ASOS
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Modaluxe
Lennon Washed Backpack, $78 at Free People
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Tano
Beckett Leather Convertible Backpack, $198 at Free People
