Style, versatility, and utility meet in the hobo bag, the latest it-girl bag all the girlies are rocking.
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With hobo bags making a comeback, there’s been a lot of buzz about their resurgence in the local fashion scene. These bags have become a staple of many OOTDs recently and a favorite due to their practicality, as they can be worn over the shoulder, keeping hands free. While some attribute their renewed popularity to new brands, others argue that hobo bags have been a staple in the local market for years. Let’s take a closer look at this trend and explore the story behind the hobo bag’s enduring appeal.
A NOD TO A WORKING PAST
While these bags have grown in popularity as of late, their history extends decades. Hobo bags, also called slouch or crescent bags, have an interesting past dating back to the early 1900s. They were originally used by migrant workers and hobos who needed a durable, spacious bag to carry their belongings. These bags were usually made from canvas or leather and featured a long shoulder strap and a relaxed, slouchy shape. Essentially, it was started by the working class who needed a practical bag for their work.
During the Great Depression, their popularity grew due to their practicality and affordability. It was during this time that hobo bags became symbols of freedom and independence, allowing people to carry their essentials while traveling without being tied to one location. This inspired the relaxed design of the modern hobo bag, first seen in 1936. The bag became popular in the 1960s with the hippie movement, featuring tassels and other symbols.
Though it faded in popularity, it made a comeback in the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of the boho-chic trend, thanks to celebrities like Sienna Miller, Kate Moss, and even the Olsen Twins. Today, hobo bags are valued for their stylish practicality and come in many modern styles.
MULTI-PURPOSE DIVA
Aside from its simple yet appealing design, hobo bags have also made many fans because they are spacious enough to carry essentials like wallets, keys, phones, and laptops, while remaining lightweight and comfortable for daily use. They are versatile and can be styled with various outfits, whether dressed up or down, making them suitable for both casual and more formal occasions.
And, going by its history, hobo bags also symbolize hope and resilience, serving as a reminder of people’s ability to survive and thrive during tough times.
MOMENT IN POP CULTURE
Just like with many things in fashion, the hobo bag has found itself inside the pop culture zeitgeist once more. The bag saw a resurgence with new designs released in mid-2023, and similar styles quickly followed as it flooded Pinterest mood boards and seen on the arms of stars like Taylor Swift and Kendall Jenner. Among its many modern iterations, the Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Leather Hobo is quickly becoming a favorite for anyone looking to level up their style. Its chic and roomy vibe makes it the perfect companion for those busy days when you want to look effortlessly cool.
Then there’s the Bottega Veneta Jodie bag, which is all the rage right now. With its sleek hobo shape that casually hangs over your shoulder, it’s made from top-notch materials and comes in various sizes. Whether you’re running errands or hitting a night out, this bag adds that perfect finishing touch.
FOR THE LOCAL GIRLIES
If you’re shopping online, plenty of local brands are selling them on their websites and social media platforms, such as GVN, AZTRID, Big Bag Theory, and Alberto. It’s super easy to snag one even if some of them don’t have a physical store. And with their trendy social media campaigns, hobo bags became the go-to for style-conscious girls. They also lend themselves well to anik-anik girlies with how easy it is to attach charms, keychains, and other fun attachments on them.
@albertophilippines Where’s our Hobo Bag girlies at?! We have something for you….VERY SOON! 😉 #WearALBERTO #FindYourPersonawithALBERTO #NewInALBERTO ♬ original sound – .°•☆Bailey☆•°.
Regardless if you prefer the more affordable options or a designer piece, the beauty in hobo bags is its simplicity, so don’t overthink it and let the bag speak for itself.
So, is it worth the hype? Yes, as an investment piece, which is also kinda ironic given its working class roots. Hobo bags are worth the hype because they offer tons of space for those who like to carry everything with them. Their slouchy shape and flat bottom are design favorites, and they’re easy to open and close. Plus, they’re perfect for staying organized or traveling light. Though, it also doesn’t help to keep in mind its history with migrant workers before you decide to spend two months worth of salary on a piece or see it as just another cool girl moment.
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