Backpack or handbag? Choosing a style to suit your lifestyle

A women’s backpack from MONA is a much-loved alternative to a handbag. A blend of function and fashion makes this design perfect for everyday wear. Using the straps to wear your backpack on your back means you can keep your hands free on a shopping trip, whilst your essentials are stored safely inside. If you’re heading off on a weekend getaway, larger backpacks are the perfect size to fit all your travel must-haves, and can double up as both hand luggage on the plane and a bag for day trips.

Just like handbags, our women’s backpacks are designed with handy compartments, so there’s space for your purse, glasses case, keys and mobile phone. There are also practical pockets to help you keep track of smaller items. Depending on the brand and design, women’s backpacks feature different closures. A magnetic closure is a practical and reliable choice, whilst zip fastenings and drawstrings help to stop your valuables from falling out.

The backpack’s journey from sports essential to chic accessory

People have been carrying essentials on their backs for centuries—research has shown that this practice dates as far back as hunters and gatherers in the Stone Age. Historians have traced the backpack in its current form to 17th century military knapsacks, which soldiers used to carry rations, ammunitions and personal items comfortably on long marches.

Travelling journeymen also carried backpacks on their expeditions and were the first to use them when hiking. Backpacks also known as rucksacks became a must-have for leisure activities in the 20th century, as mountaineering and hiking became popular pastimes. It was during this time that women also began to carry backpacks—firstly for sporting activities and then, since the 1990s, as stylish accessories.

At MONA, you can find a wide range of stylish women’s backpacks. Take your pick from designs crafted using modern man-made materials or premium leather. And there’s an array of colours to choose from—from classic tones of grey and black and feminine pastel shades, to shimmering gold and silver-toned touches.

Women’s backpacks at MONA—bags that hold their own

When curating the collection of backpacks on offer, MONA focuses on well-respected brands and enduring quality to ensure that your new backpack remains an everyday essential for years to come.

The classic backpack design remains popular to this day and looks just as sleek slung over your shoulder as a handbag. At MONA, you can browse designs featuring bold detailing such as diamond quilting, animal prints and shimmering metallic finishes.

The pockets on a backpack aren’t just handy for storing your essentials—they also add a stylish element to the design. Zip fastenings on the pockets in the same colour as the rest of the backpack create stylish structure. What’s more, these small compartments are very practical, as you can access their contents without having to open and rifle through the main compartment.

Stylish yet sturdy, women’s backpacks are forever favourites.

Which backpack works for me?

At MONA, we have a wide range of backpacks to choose from. When shopping for your new backpack, it’s important to keep your signature style in mind. If you love to look elegant, try a leather design. Similar to a classic handbag, this style is just as perfect for a day in the office as it is for a weekend shopping trip. If you prefer a sporty lifestyle, take a look at our more casual backpacks, crafted from man-made materials. Accent your outfits with backpacks in bold shades that look especially stylish during the warmer months—just pair with a breezy dress and sandals. A lightweight jacket or blazer will add the final flair to your summer ensemble. If you often carry a lot and find that a shopper is your handbag of choice, a small backpack is a chic alternative. These are more compact than a handbag and the top handle and adjustable straps make them a comfortable choice, whilst the compartments and pockets also mean they are practical for organising your essentials. And with one of our roomy designs, there’s still plenty of space for your shopping or British must-haves like a hat, gloves and an umbrella. A chic backpack will add style and versatility to your wardrobe. Browse MONA’s latest designs and discover your new backpack in a style that suits you and your everyday life. Shop from the comfort of your own home and order your favourite backpack online today.