Maybe it's just the fact that they don't look anything like the Disney-printed polyester versions you carried throughout grade school, but something about a leather backpack just feels luxurious. Whether they're real leather or vegan, the supple carryalls have all the hands-free convenience of a typical rucksack with the grown-up appeal of a handbag (in fact, many have convertible straps so they can be worn over the shoulder too).
As with handbags, there's also a wide range of price points to choose from, from fast-fashion styles in the $50 to $100 range all the way to designer versions that can run north of $2000 (or even $39,000, as in the case of The Row's memorable alligator backpack from its debut collection). In the middle, there are plenty of covetable options to save up for without blowing your whole rent check, from editor-favorite brands like Mansur Gavriel and Kara.
No matter your budget, shop leather backpacks to carry all year round in the gallery below.
Affordable
Zara
Chain Link Backpack With Leather Flap
This putty-colored style only looks expensive.
Mango
Leather Mixed Backpack
The chain hardware adds a bit of toughness.
Urban Outfitters
Zip-Around Convertible Backpack
Simple, chic, and just big enough to hold all your essentials.
Gap
Leather Dome Backpack
Plenty of pockets to keep you organized.
Deux Lux
Annabelle Convertible Mini Backpack
The straps are detachable and adjustable, so you can choose how to wear it.
Moderate
Vere Verto
Dita Backpack
This bright blue is super striking.
Kara
Exclusive Black Small Ring Leather Backpack
What is it about metal rings that makes accessories so much cooler?
Mansur Gavriel
Saffiano Mini Backpack
The cherry red will pop against any outfit.
Building Block
Mini Rucksack in Concrete
The rubber handle is a cool, modern touch.
See by Chloé
Olga Grained-Leather Backpack
Between the curved side pockets and the detachable handle, this bag doesn't neglect the details.
Luxe
Fendi
Olga Grained-Leather Backpack
We're a little obsessed with these chain straps.
The Row
11 Leather Backpack
Understated elegance is The Row's bread and butter.
Gucci
Queen Margaret Quilted Leather Backpack
Between the crystal-encrusted bee, the quilting, and the bamboo handle, there's a lot going on here—but, of course, Gucci makes it work.
Stella McCartney
Ink Falabella Shaggy Deer Backpack
A vegan leather option that's cool and cruelty-free.
Chloé
Faye Small Suede and Leather Backpack
Every It girl has one of these bags.
3.1 Phillip Lim
31 Hour Zip-Around Backpack
For those who actually have to schlep some stuff around, this bag can carry a ton.