The latest trends for 2025! A complete guide to popular shoulder bags for men in their 20s!

Shoulder bags are a must-have item for the modern age, combining functionality and style.

Especially for men in their 20s, it has become an important accessory that elevates their daily outfits.

Diversity and sustainability are the keywords for trends in 2025.

In this article, we will thoroughly explain the latest designs, popular brands, and how to coordinate them. You are sure to find the perfect shoulder bag for your lifestyle.

Overview of Shoulder Bag Trends for 2025

Points of change from last year

Whereas trends up to 2024 focused on minimalism and practicality, the keywords for 2025 are "expressiveness" and "multifunctionality.

While simple designs that eliminate waste will continue, subtle accents and contrasting textures are attracting attention.

Major keywords for this season

• crossover designCrossover Design : Fusion of different styles (e.g., sports x luxury)
• Modular featuresCustomizable parts and removable pockets
• Technology supportWireless charging pocket and RFID blocking functionality
• Sustainable materialsMade from recycled materials and vegan leather

Differences in fashion trends between Japan and other countries

While bold colors and oversized designs are the norm in Europe and the United States, a more compact size that combines functionality and urban sophistication is favored in Japan. In particular, models that combine minimalist design with storage capacity are highly favored by Japanese men in their 20s.

Popularity Ranking by Design

Minimalist design

Minimalist design is characterized by clean lines and sophisticated appearance with no waste. Because of their simplicity, models that do not compromise on the quality of materials and details are popular. They are also attractive in that they are easy to match with any coordinates and can be worn for a long time.

Examples of popular models:

• Ace Jean "Phase" series
• Porter "Tanker" shoulder
• Air "Slim" series

Street style

Street-style shoulder bags characterized by bold logos, graphics, and unique shapes are on the rise in 2025, with retro-futuristic designs influenced by the 90s revival. As items that embody street culture, they are favored by fashion-conscious men.

Examples of popular models:

• Supreme "Seasonal" Shoulder
• Carhartt WIP "Essential" Bag
• Nike "Tech" Crossbody

Business Casual

This model combines a smart design and functionality that can be used in the office without discomfort. It features the use of high-grade leather and nylon materials and the functionality to hold a PC or tablet. Ideal for today's businessperson with a flexible work style.

Examples of popular models:

• Manhattan Portage "Business Line
• Coach "Metropolitan" series
• agnès b. "Voyage" collection

Functional models for outdoor enthusiasts

Highly functional models that excel in water resistance and durability and are useful in outdoor scenes. In response to the urban outdoor trend, they are also becoming increasingly popular for town use. It features a design that combines the use of technical materials with functional beauty.

Examples of popular models:

• Patagonia "Atom Sling
• The North Face "Explorer" series
• Gregory "Tail Mate

New items from luxury brands

High-brand shoulder bags, while also serving as status symbols, will shift to more practical designs in 2025. Subtle designs with less assertive logos and the use of sustainable materials are key points of interest.

Examples of popular models:

• Louis Vuitton "Outdoor" Messenger
• Prada "Re-Nylon" Crossbody
• Gucci "Off the Grid" series

Trend Analysis by Material

The Rise of Sustainable Materials

Environmental concerns have led to a surge in models made from recycled polyester, organic cotton, and recycled materials. In particular, materials made from recycled ocean plastic are gaining support from 20-somethings who are interested in ethical fashion.

Leather and Suede

Leather and suede, traditional materials, will remain steadfastly popular in 2025. Models that can enjoy aging with the texture of genuine leather and new environmentally friendly materials such as vegan leather are also attracting attention. They work especially well with minimalist designs.

Evolution of Technical Materials

More and more models feature the latest technical materials that combine water resistance, durability, and light weight; high-performance materials such as X-PAC and Cordura are gaining popularity, especially among urban commuters.

New Trends in Textiles

Models with modern treatments and combinations of traditional textiles such as canvas and denim are on the rise. Waterproofed canvas, recycled denim, and other textiles are characterized by a fusion of tradition and innovation.

Recommended shoulder bags by size

Compact size (for daily use)

Compact size is recommended for those who want to carry only essentials such as a cell phone, wallet, and keys. Many of the designs are minimalistic and can be used for a wide range of styles from casual to beautiful. It is especially suited for people who travel frequently in urban areas.

Recommended points:

• Its unobtrusive size allows for a high degree of freedom of movement.
• Effective for organizing luggage as it can be reduced to the minimum necessary items
• Many models are well-designed and can be used as fashion accents

Middle size (for commuting to work or school)

The middle size fits A5 size notebooks and small tablets. New products in this category are particularly abundant in 2025.

Recommendations:

• Well-balanced practicality and design
• Useful in a variety of situations, so it is convenient to have one.
• Many models have ingenious storage compartments.

Large capacity type (travel/outdoor)

Large-capacity type is designed to hold bulky items such as a single-lens reflex camera and a notebook PC. In 2025, advances in lightweight technology will make it possible for more and more models to have less burden even with large capacities.

Recommendations:

• Full of practical functions such as multifunctional pockets and waterproofing
• Padded straps for comfort during long periods of use
• Variable capacity model can be adjusted according to the amount of luggage

Recommended models by price range

Cost-effective models

Models recommended for those who seek quality and design while keeping their budgets low. A number of affordable, trend-setting items are available from domestic and international casual and fast fashion brands.

Recommended Brands:

• UNIQLO
• Anello
• adidas Originals

Middle Range Models

A middle-range model with a good balance of quality and functionality. Recommended for those who are particular about durability and detail workmanship. Japanese bag brands and select stores' original lines are showing their strength.

Recommended brands:

• Manhattan Portage
• Porter
• Timberland

High-end models

High-end models made with the finest materials and craftsmanship. Recommended for people who want to use them for a long time as a lifetime item or for people who want a luxurious item that can be used for special occasions. Many brands are also characterized by their value as an investment.

Recommended Brands:

• Briefing
• Coach
• Bottega Veneta

How to coordinate by TPO

Casual Cordage

Coordinates well with casual occasions such as weekend shopping or dinner with friends; a shoulder bag in a color or design that accentuates the simple style of T-shirt and denim is recommended. It also goes well with street and outdoor models.

Coordinating example:

• White T-shirt + denim + sneakers + vivid-colored shoulder bag
• Hoodie + chinos + cap + shoulder bag in technical material

Office Casual

For a business casual office style, a shoulder bag with an elegant and sophisticated design is a must. Leather or nylon models with a luxurious feel go well with a shirt or jacket style, and functionality is also important, as they can hold a PC or tablet.

Coordinating example:

• Polo shirt + slacks + loafers + leather shoulder bag
• Casual jacket + T-shirt + smart pants + nylon business line

For date night

For the dating scene, choose a casually stylish shoulder bag. A compact size that allows you to carry only the minimum necessary items is ideal. We recommend a well-designed minimalist model or a high-quality leather model.

Coordinating Examples:

• Casual shirt + chinos + leather sneakers + compact leather shoulder
• Knit + denim + desert boots + suede mini shoulder

For Events/Parties

Coordinate for special events such as music festivals and parties. Hands-free and easy to move, shoulder bags show their true value in these situations. A unique design or a limited edition model will accentuate your coordination.

Coordinating examples:

• Graphic T-shirt + wide pants + sneakers + Bold design shoulder
• Oversized shirt + skinny jeans + Chelsea boots + metallic mini bag

Shoulder bag used by popular influencers

Style analysis of domestic and international celebrities

Celebrities in Japan and abroad who have become fashion icons also love shoulder bags. Yosuke Kubozuka's street-mix style is matched by a functional technical bag, while Masaki Sugata's unique fashion is matched by a rare and valuable vintage bag.

Overseas, Timothée Chalamet's fusion of classic and modern styles and the progressive fashion sense of the BTS members are the focus of our attention. Take inspiration from their outfits for tips on how to establish your own style.

Introducing the hottest models on SNS

We pick up shoulder bags that are getting a lot of attention on Instagram and TikTok. Searching with hashtags such as "#Men's shoulder" and "#Bag coordination" will reveal the forefront of the trend. In particular, collaboration models and limited edition colors from popular creators tend to be in short supply as soon as they go on sale.

Five recommended shoulder bag items

We have selected stylish and functional shoulder bags that are particularly noteworthy this season. Here are selected items that can be used in a variety of situations.

1. vintage-style sacoche bag

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Natural-colored sakosh made of organic cotton is a modern interpretation of a traditional Japanese design. It is thin but durable, lightweight, and highly portable. It is perfect for an adult casual style with a Japanese taste.

2. outdoor taste shoulder bag

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This black technical shoulder bag looks great against the marine blue background. Made of waterproof nylon material, the large front pocket is convenient for storing small items. It goes great with a beanie cap to complete your urban outdoor style.

3. minimalist canvas bag

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This canvas shoulder bag has a calm brown coloring. Despite its simple design, it has a strong presence and can be worn with a wide range of coordinates from casual to beautiful. The exquisite size that fits on the shoulder is also attractive.

4. technical sling bag

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A technical sling bag that pursues functionality. The three-dimensional design fits the body and the adjustable straps make it comfortable to use even in active situations. Multiple storage pockets and reflective material details combine practicality and design.

5. tote shoulder hybrid bag

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A hybrid design of a classic canvas tote with a detachable shoulder strap. The navy accents give it a clean look, making it ideal for daily use such as commuting to school or work. The interior divider pocket allows for smart organization of small items.

 

10 recommended brands for men in their 20s

Features and representative models of each brand

1. PORTER
   • Characteristics: Reliable quality, functionality and durability made in Japan
   • Representative models: "Tanker" and "Freestyle" series
2. Manhattan Portage
   • Characteristics: Urban and tough design originating from New York
   • Representative models: "DJ Bag" and "Far Rockaway
3. adidas Originals
   • Characteristics: Sporty and retro, ideal for daily use
   • Representative models: "Festival Bag" and "Trefoil Shoulder
4. The North Face (THE NORTH FACE)
   • Characteristics: High functionality and durability unique to an outdoor brand
   • Representative models: "Explorer" and "Shoulder Pouch
5. COACH (COACH)
   • Characteristics: High-quality leather and sophisticated design, creating a mature and comfortable atmosphere
   • Representative models: "Metropolitan" and "Waist Pack
6. Nike (NIKE)
   • Characteristics: Functional design incorporating sports technology
   • Representative models: "Tech Crossbody" and "Heritage" series
7. Anello
   • Characteristics: Reasonable prices and a wide variety of colors
   • Representative models: "Mini shoulder bag" and "Square mini shoulder
8. Carhartt WIP (Carhartt WIP)
   • Characteristics: Fusion of workwear sturdiness and street style
   • Representative models: "Essential Bag" and "Militant Shoulder
9. Supreme
   • Characteristics: Representative of a rare and valuable street brand
   • Representative models: "Shoulder bags" and "Succoshes
10. Gregory (GREGORY)
    • Characteristics: Outdoor brand, but also popular for town use
    • Representative models: "Tail Mate" and "Quick Pocket

Emerging brand to watch in 2025

• COLDBREAKERCOLDBREAKER: Technical bag brand from Japan, pursuing functional beauty
• URBAN RESEARCHERUrban Researcher: Up-and-coming brand focusing on sustainable materials
• MONOLITHMonolith: Innovative bag design using 3D printing technology
• NEO URBANNEO URBAN: Multifunctional bags specialized for urban living

Maintenance and Care

Care instructions by material

Leather products:

• Apply waterproofing spray before use
• Wipe with a dry cloth as soon as rain or dirt gets on it
• Regularly care with special cream.
• Store out of direct sunlight

Nylon and polyester products:

• Wipe off light stains with a cloth dampened with water
• For stubborn stains, wash gently with diluted neutral detergent.
• Dry thoroughly before storing.

Canvas products:

• Partially wash with special cleaner if stains are noticeable
• Machine washable products should be placed in a net and washed on a delicate course.
• Dry in the shade in a well-ventilated place.

Tips and tricks to prolong the life of the product

• When not in use, put stuffing inside to prevent it from losing its shape.
• Do not overload with heavy objects.
• Check zippers and buckles regularly
• Store in a bag or other container to avoid dust
• Organize the contents of pockets regularly

Summary and Buying Guide

How to choose the right shoulder bag for you

1. Define your intended use(e.g.: for daily use, for work, for travel, etc.)
2. Consider the amount of storage you needMake a list of items to be carried
3. Choose a design that matches your fashion style(e.g., casual, mode, street, etc.)
4. Decide on materials based on frequency of use and environmentNylon for rainy areas, leather for appearance, etc.
5. Check strap length and adjustability.: Can it be adapted to your body shape and clothing style?

Recommendations on how to buy at NNine

NNine offers a wide variety of shoulder bags popular among men in their 20s. In addition to regular time sales on the official website, new product information and exclusive coupons are also available by subscribing to the e-mail magazine. In addition, fitting advice by professional staff is available at stores, so you can feel at ease even if it is your first purchase.

Advice on how to use our products for each season

SpringSpring: Lightweight materials and pastel colors are recommended. Waterproof functionality is also a good choice to protect against pollen.

SummerLightweight, breathable mesh material and water-repellent models are comfortable.

Autumn: Designs incorporating fall and winter materials such as suede and corduroy to anticipate the mood of the season.

WinterWaterproof models and slim designs that are easy to match with coats are recommended.

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The 2025 shoulder bag trend is characterized by a high level of fusion of functionality and design. Find your favorite one that fits your lifestyle and fashion style. We hope this guide will help you choose the right shoulder bag, and we look forward to welcoming you to NNine with our extensive lineup of products incorporating the latest trends.