Fred Perry Bag: Contrast Barrel

THE ASKMEN TAKE

This item appears in our Spring Fashion Preview 2010.

This spring, looking sporty is cool. But this time around designers at New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2010 focused on incorporating sporty pieces into men's daily wardrobes rather than showcasing sportswear head to toe. Additionally, high-tech performance fabrics cropped up in more tailored clothes like dress pants and blazers. In essence, there was a significant emphasis in this season's major collections on practicality, reflecting the busy and active lives modern men lead. This 100% PVC Fred Perry bag (Contrast Barrel model) conforms to spring's demand for fashion and function.  

 UNIQUENESS

As long as you don't have to wear a suit to the office, this barrel bag is ideal for work and play. Paired with dress pants and a scoop neck tee, you have a fashion-forward way to schlep your usual stuff around along with your gym clothes. The main pocket offers plenty of room for your workout wear while the zippered side pocket provides space for your electronic gadgets, keys and gym pass.

Available in three different colors, there's a barrel to fit every man's lifestyle and favorite sport. Reminiscent of a punching bag, the maroon version is suitable for fighters or boxers, while the white model will appeal to tennis aficionados. For guys constantly on the go, the black Fred Perry bag provides an all-purpose option that will complement any outfit.

 DURABILITY

If you're not a big label lover, the noticeable Fred Perry logo on the base of this bag may seem off-putting at first. Keep in mind, however, that one thing that differentiates sportswear from otherapparel is that its branding tends to be larger and more obvious. As well, because you'll be combining this bag with your usual threads, you'll feel like less of a walking advertisement.

Trend-wise, though it may seem odd by 2011 to pair this Fred Perry bag with everything in your closet, you'll continue to use it as a gym bag until it falls apart, making this $60 well spent. Bonus: Because it's not made from leather, cleaning this bag is as simple as wiping it with a damp cloth.