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Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images for Bottega Veneta
Any fashion historian would tell you that the concept of men wearing handbags isn’t groundbreaking, but within the past year, this trend has bubbled up in ways that I haven’t seen in recent memory. My theory is that we’ve seen a rise in the popularity of the “man purse” because it directly reflects how fashion is used to challenge cultural norms. It’s no secret that style has always been used as a way to subvert gender conformity, racism, and sexism, but it feels incredibly fresh at this moment, as we’ve seen a slew of political policies passed around the world that erode the rights that women and members of the LGBTQ+ community have over their bodies within the last few years. From the overturning of Roe v. Wade to the countless pieces of legislation proposed to police drag performers and individuals dressing in a gender-nonconforming manner, there’s no shortage of legislation aimed at degrading ideas of bodily autonomy.
In a way, one could argue that the degradation of rights has given rise to a counterculture that centers on positively reframing ideas and values around traditional femininity. One only needs to reference the box-office numbers for the Barbie film, the virality of the “girlhood” fashion trend, and even men donning handbags as proof of such efforts. While art forms like film and fashion can not be held at the same level as other forms of political protest, they’re still imperative because they are a source of solace in times of uncertainty. After all, what’s more refreshing than seeing famous men embrace something as “feminine” as a handbag? Nothing, in my humble opinion.
While good-ole misogyny has reared its ugly head, seeing men carrying their little bags has acted as a cultural reset. It’s the receipts, proof, timeline, and screenshots I’ve needed to be assured that not all hope is lost. Although it might seem melodramatic, I know I’m not the only one feeling this way. With so much buzz on social media surrounding all the celebs spotted wearing designer bags, plus the continued allure of the quiet luxury movement, it’s safe to say this trend carries significant weight. If you’re still dubious about this trend, you’ll want to keep scrolling to see the examples of men wearing handbags on the runway and in real life that I’ve rounded up.
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Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
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