Back to School: The Evolution of the School Bag

As the school season approaches, we all start thinking about new routines, fresh notebooks, and, of course, the perfect bag. Whether you're a student heading back to campus or a parent shopping for your kids, the school bag is more than just a carry-all — it's a symbol of readiness, style, and identity.

But have you ever wondered how the school bag became what it is today?

A Brief History of the School Backpack

The idea of a school bag dates back centuries, but early versions were nothing like today’s comfortable and colorful designs. In the 19th century, students often carried their books by hand or tied them with leather straps. It wasn't until the 1930s that the first “satchels” appeared — sturdy leather bags with buckles and a flap.

The modern school backpack didn’t rise to popularity until the 1970s, when outdoor gear companies like JanSport and Eastpak introduced soft, lightweight bags with shoulder straps. Designed originally for hikers, these backpacks quickly became student favorites thanks to their comfort and durability.

Today’s school bags come in all shapes, sizes, and materials — from sleek minimalistic designs to colorful prints that reflect personal taste. Functionality meets fashion, and students are loving it.

School Bags Today: More Than Just Utility

Modern school bags are a reflection of personality. Some prioritize laptop protection, while others focus on ergonomic support. And let’s not forget aesthetics — a bag can be as expressive as a hairstyle or a favorite pair of sneakers.

For stylish and durable laptop backpacks, recommendations from Esquire and The Verge highlight designs that blend aesthetics with comfort.

Premium options like the Lo & Sons Rowledge — reviewed by Good Housekeeping — show that sometimes a backpack doubles as a fashion statement.

For school-age children and teens, trusted reviews from New York Post and Verywell Family help families choose backpacks that are both fun and functional.

At The Chic Cover, we offer a variety of stylish, functional bags that are perfect for the back-to-school season. Whether you’re into bold prints or classic tones, there’s a piece that fits your look and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

The school bag has come a long way — from leather straps to smart compartments. It’s not just about carrying books; it’s about carrying confidence, individuality, and everything you need to succeed.

Explore our curated collection of bags at The Chic Cover and start your new school year with style.

Esquire – Best Laptop Backpacks

The Verge – Favorite Bags List

Good Housekeeping – Lo & Sons Review

New York Post – Best Kids Backpacks

Verywell Family – Best Backpacks for Students

The Beauty and Durability of Natural Materials in Bag Making

In the world of fashion and accessories, the choice of materials plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Natural materials like linen and leather have been used for centuries to craft high-quality bags that stand the test of time. These materials not only offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic options but also bring a unique charm and durability that make them highly desirable. Let’s explore the qualities and benefits of linen and leather in bag-making.

Linen: The Lightweight and Sustainable Choice

Linen is a natural fabric derived from the flax plant. It is well known for its strength, breathability, and eco-friendliness.

Benefits of Linen Bags:

Sustainability – Linen is biodegradable and requires fewer resources to produce compared to synthetic fabrics. The flax plant grows without the need for excessive pesticides or water, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Durability – Despite being lightweight, linen is one of the strongest natural fibers. It resists wear and tear, making it an excellent material for everyday bags.

Breathability – Linen’s ability to wick moisture away makes it ideal for warm climates, preventing stuffiness inside the bag.

Aesthetic Appeal – Linen has a unique texture that exudes a natural, rustic charm. It also absorbs dyes well, offering a variety of colors and patterns.

Linen bags are often used for tote bags, backpacks, and crossbody bags that need to be both stylish and functional.

Leather: The Classic and Timeless Material

Leather is one of the oldest materials used in bag-making and is prized for its luxurious feel, strength, and longevity. Genuine leather comes from animal hides, primarily from cows, and undergoes a tanning process to make it durable and supple.

Benefits of Leather Bags:

Durability – Leather is extremely resilient and, with proper care, can last for decades. It develops a beautiful patina over time, enhancing its appeal.

Timeless Elegance – Leather bags have a sophisticated and classic look, making them suitable for formal, casual, and professional settings.

Versatility – Leather can be crafted into various bag styles, from structured handbags to slouchy totes, offering something for every fashion preference.

Eco-Friendly Options – Many brands now use vegetable-tanned leather, which avoids harsh chemicals and makes the production process more sustainable.

Choosing the Right Natural Material for Your Bag

The choice between linen and leather depends on personal style, purpose, and sustainability considerations. If you prefer a lightweight, eco-friendly, and breathable option, linen is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you seek durability, timeless elegance, and long-term value, leather is an outstanding material.

By investing in bags made from natural materials, you not only get a high-quality and stylish accessory but also contribute to sustainable fashion. Whether you choose linen for its soft and airy feel or leather for its robustness and sophistication, both materials offer a unique charm that synthetic options simply can’t replicate.

More info:

What Fabrics To Use For Bagmaking

The Top 10 Bag-Making Fabrics: An Expert Guide

What Type of Leather is the Best for Bag Making

The best collection of bags

Updated in August 2025:

“We continue exploring natural materials and ways to make every design not only beautiful but long-lasting. If you want to see new collections and fresh ideas, visit The Chic Cover — the latest pieces of this season are already waiting for you.”