When we think of fashion, we think of uncomfortable high heels and unaffordable couture, right?
But there's one item that's crossed over from being merely practical, to being a must-have accessory season after season.
When the humble backpack became a part of public consciousness, we all jumped for joy. Practical and stylish? Comfy and cool? Sign us up.
And there's now no trend the backpack can't tick, with slouchy weekend styles, formal work wear and luxe sports all covered. If you're in need of a stand out piece to compliment the ultimate power dressing, or just somewhere to store your towel and change of clothes while you run to the office, the novelty of having our hands free still hasn't quite worn off.
6 best backpacks on the highstreet
1 of 6Kera Tiger backpack by Skinnydip, £28, Topshop
A practical backpack doesn't need to be frumpy or masculine. This structured tiger print number from Topshop looks more than a little Moschino, meaning no need to pass on class with your work wear.
2 of 6UO Suede Duffel Backpack, £39, Urban Outfitters
For a more relaxed weekend look, this generously-sized suede backpack from Urban Outfitters is the ultimate in off-duty cool and will go with basically anything except a heavy downpour. Lucky it's roomy enough to fit a couple of brollys and a kagoul for when you need them.
3 of 6Small backpack, £14, H&M
Perfect for your upcoming summer wardrobe, this cute white number from everyone's fave high street store H&M will offset this season's dusky neutrals – AND returning lace and crochet detailing – beautifully.
4 of 6adidas Originals geometric 3D roll top backpack, £60, ASOS
Of course, the humble backpack has it's roots firmly in sports and leisure, so there's plenty of takes on this formula to appease the style-conscious athlete, too. This adidas one with geometric detailing is super cool.
5 of 6Beyond Retro Kayla Sling Backpack, £40, Urban Outfitters
Queens of quirk will love this slouchy across the body backpack, perfect for swiveling round to retrieve snacks without having to take off the whole contraption (backpacking 101). It's leather too, so won't get ruined in the rain.
6 of 6Roll-top opening back pack, £24.99, H&M
For serious storage, backpacks are great for distributing heavy loads evenly to avoid back injury. This versatile number from H&M will easily hold a laptop and a gym kit for busy weekdays.
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No longer is practicality in fashion a dirty word. Gone are the days when we had to choose between style and functionality – the working women (and the mums, models and school kids) of today need their wardrobe to work as hard as they do, and so the mainstream adoption of the backpack couldn't have come at a better time.
We've rounded up some of the best styles from the high street for every budget and every day needs, whether you're out on the town or packing for a day trip (sandwiches not included).
Check out the gallery above for some fab style inspiration from us at Closer online.
Viva la backpack!