Desire Summer 2018
Grade schoolers across Japan have been carrying leather backpacks, called “randoseru,” for decades. Traditionally, they’ve come in two colors: black for boys and red for girls. In recent years, however, that’s changed. And it’s not just for school kids. The RODEO Premium Randoseru School Backpack in Camel Brown is handmade by Japanese craftsman, making each one unique. They are both highly functional and made with premium materials. $798. Takasaki.com
Cute and convenient, the Big Wheely rolling backpack by Kipling offers on-the-go storage with two spacious, secure compartments that make it easy to stay organized at school or while traveling. A pair of eyes and ears gives this bag a playful touch any student will love. $109. Kipling, Fashion Show, 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas. 702-734-0185.
The Fjallraven Kånken backpack is a classic from the 1970s and now a staple in travel gear due to its functionality, sturdy design, and cool Scandinavian look. With durable polyvinyl, roomy main zip compartment, and easily accessible front and side pockets, it still meets today’s demanding needs. $80. Urban Outfitters, Fashion Show, 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas. 702-794-4011.
TUMI’s “London” roll-top backpack comes in TUMI’s signature ballistic nylon, which withstands the wear and tear of everyday use. This ruggedly redefined pack can hold your laptop, tablet, and phone, plus enough clothes to get you through the weekend. The design is completed with comfortable, padded backpack straps and a handle for easy carrying. $425. Tumi, Forum Shops at Caesars, 3500 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas. 702-369-5885.
Longchamp drew its inspiration from the art of origami when creating “Le Pliage,” a light, foldaway bag that has since become a cult object worldwide. Ideal for everyday use, it’s light as a feather, folds away to the size of a paperback, and is durable enough to keep all your essentials close at hand. $125 Neiman Marcus, Fashion Show, 3200 S. Las Vegas Blvd., Las Vegas. 702-731-3636.
The Herschel Little America Backpack is not only suited for an epic outdoor expedition but is also one of the best kids’ backpacks for sophisticated students who want a timeless bag with a modern flair. With its mountaineer-inspired design that boasts a versatile silhouette and roomy storage options, this backpack will help scale the tallest of mountains or just be a tagalong during casual treks through the city. The interior includes a padded and fleece-lined sleeve for holding a 15-inch laptop plus a media pocket with a discreetly placed headphone port. $99. Zappos.com
The ADI Classic 3-stripes backpack is sturdy and built for transport. Any youngster will thrive at school, or after school, with this kid size pack. Perfect as a training backpack but versatile enough for school, it’s made of durable woven fabric and includes a front zip pocket as well as an inner divider to help organize essentials, while the padded shoulder straps adjust for easy transport. $28. Adidas.com
The Flack Sack II is the toughest theft-resistant drawstring backpack around. It’s a bag and a portable safe in one. Made of slash-proof fabric, it’s also lock-able and designed to accommodate the lifestyle of those on-the-go. Carries and protects. $149. loctote.com