The Functions of Hobo Handbags

Hobo handbags are one style we’ve seen many times on this blog. It’s not that easy to escape, however. Nearly every celebrity seems to be having one. In a sense, the hobo handbag is a variation on the ‘80s slouch purse which, at the time, was a somewhat shapeless leather handbag with a medium-sized strap. In the present, the hobo bag keeps the shapelessness of slouch purses but the size has essentially quadrupled. Look at a hobo from one direction, and it looks like a large, amorphous tote bag. From another, it’s simply a small piece of luggage. And, in this sense, nearly everyone – both women and men – can use a hobo, because it’s not really a purse and not really a piece of luggage. It’s, instead, a multipurpose hybrid.

This is what designer Marc Jacobs appears to be using his hobo handbags for, anyway. While still a staple piece for many female celebrities, Jacobs shows it’s okay for male celebrities – and men in general – to carry a hobo bag. In his case, Jacobs is using a few to bring things to the beach and, considering the bag can hold a few towels, as well as other items, but, of course that depends on the size of the bag.

Celebrity and wannabe-pop star Heidi Montag (or Pratt, whatever you call her now) has often been seen wearing various bright colored hobo handbags. Under the link, Montag is seen with a dark blue Balenciaga alligator skin handbag the size of an art portfolio. While she doesn’t appear to be carrying much in there, think of all the things that, when used practically, could fit inside one. For men and women both, such a handbag could easily serve as a carryon with a few basic items, such as clothing and toiletries, for a trip.