What is a Satchel Bag? Discover its Authentic Style

In the huge variety of bags, you will definitely find satchel bags. These versatile bags can be confused with handbags and purses. The satchel bags are commonly associated with student bags due to their sizes and designs.

In the following blog post, you will find a comprehensive discussion about this bag. You will not only find details about this bag but also the differences between satchel bags and other bags.

What Is A Satchel Bag?

A satchel bag is a traditional book-carrying bag with a long strap. The strap can be worn diagonally, crossing the body. It has a flap to cover the top and closes at the front.

A satchel bag is a soft-sided bag of a mid to large size. It has a flat bottom with two handles, and the number of straps varies. 

Design Of The Satchel Bag

• The satchel bag differs from other bags not only in materials but also in designs. The shape of the satchel bag is just like a box, a rectangular structure with a flat bottom.
• Satchel bags have flaps that fold and cover the top of the bag. It protects the materials inside the bag. The flap may have a magnet or any other fastener to close the bag. 
• The pouches can have both the straps and two short handles or one of them. The straps are adjustable and detachable.  

History of Satchel Bag

The leather satchel bags were used by the Roman soldiers in the start. Later, in 300 AD, Scottish monks carried bibles inside their leather satchels.

In the 18th century, schoolchildren and university students in Britain used satchel bags. But in the 20th century, these bags evolved in designs, colors, and materials. Many other professionals have started to use these bags nowadays.¹   

Best Materials For Satchel Bag

Satchel bags are traditionally made of strong and durable leather only. But new bags come in various materials, such as the following. 

• Leather 
• Nylon
• Vegan Leather
• Suede

Best Styles For Satchel Bag

Satchel bags are very versatile in their styles. People wear them in different styles, such as the ones given below. 

• The crossbody style is a hand-free style. Wear the strap across your body and let the bag rest on the opposite side of your shoulder. 
• If your satchel bag has two handles, then you can carry the satchel by the handles. 
• You can hang the bag over one shoulder through the strap for a relaxed vibe. This is a casual style.

Satchel Bag Vs.Tote Bag

Satchels and tote bags share similar characteristics but are also different. Tote bags are large and vary in styles and sizes, but the satchel bags are only medium and large. Tote bags are casual, but the satchel bags are sophisticated and prestigious. Moreover, the satchels are more secure due to their flaps than the open tote bags. 

Satchel Bag Vs.Messenger Bag

Satchel bags can have one or two adjustable straps, while messenger bags have a single long adjustable strap. Messenger bags come in a variety of styles, from casual to professional, but satchels are considered for formal styles.

Satchel Bag Vs.Purse

You can wear the satchel bags in crossbody styles through their straps. But a purse is carried through the handles, over one shoulder, or the crook of your arm. Satchel bags are simple and have minimal designs, but the purses are colorful and have embellishments. 

Satchel Bag Vs.Handbag

Handbags carry personal items such as keys, wallets, mobile phones, or laptops. But the satchel bags carry the books or files. The handbags come in various styles, while the satchel bags have a uniform signature shape. 

Conclusion

Satchels are not bound to a single gender. Both men and women can wear them. Moreover, the satchels have now evolved in style and are now used for many other purposes, not only for book carrying. 

Satchels are bold and daring as they were only for practical purposes. However, you will now find different colors and designs for vibrant lifestyles in satchel bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Article Sources

Bagsbucks provides reliable information with good-quality references to support the facts.

1.  That Satchel: And the Metaphoric Business of What You Carry – Sage ↩︎