Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or your everyday bag, a backpack should be fun.
Block colors are a smart choice – they go with more so you can use more. The fact that so many brands are now making their bags from recycled materials is a bonus.
Use rental services to find ones that will do the heavy lifting in terms of style. Try a pattern or embroidery to easily make your outfit stand out – or go for the high-end elegance. (A black Prada backpack is guaranteed to score points.)
It can be even more fun to buy used – look for bright prints and original designs. The backpack is an inherently sporty choice, so brands such as Nike or skate brand Supreme work well, bringing a touch of joy wherever you go.
Lauren Cochrane
To buy
lilac puffer, £79.99, zara.com
A hiking style backpack with adjustable shoulder straps.

Blue and red , £90, patagonia.com
Made from 68% recycled fabric

water resistant pink, £170, pangaia.com
Made from ocean waste and landfills.
To rent

Green leather , from £35 for four days rental, by C Nichol, mywardrobe.com
Focus your style with a neutral fit.

Pearl white from £51 for four days rental, by Gianni, hurrcollective.com
An embellished backpack is a practical evening alternative to a handbag.

black nylonfrom £19 per month by Prada from cocoon.club
A cult classic for a wink at the retail price.
Saving

Berlin logo £45 by Braccialini, vestiarecollective.com
Wear with a bomber jacket and chunky boots.

blue skater style, £116 per Supreme, depop.com
Channel the 1990s with a classic Supreme design.

Red sports, £55.30 from Nike, Vintageinvisible at etsy.com
Vintage designs never go out of style.