Move Over, Birkin Girls—It’s the Era of the It-Bag Boy

From Jane Birkin’s namesake Hermès bag to Pharrell Williams’s Louis Vuitton Speedy in vibrant crocodile, the relationship between iconic figures and their it-bags is well-established. But in recent seasons, a growing number of fashionable men have been stepping into the spotlight, and into the accessories aisle. From high-gloss crossbodies to logo-laden totes, the new wave of it-boys is embracing designer bags as key pieces in their wardrobes.

Whether it’s the red carpet, the front row at fashion week, or a casual airport fit caught by paparazzi, today’s most stylish male stars aren’t afraid of a bold accessory. And in 2025, bags have officially gone genderless; sleek, structured, playful, or archival, these are the statement pieces rounding out the wardrobes of men at the forefront of entertainment and fashion.

Below, we break down the standout bag moments from seven it-boys defining the moment, and what exactly they’re carrying.

Apo Nattawin

Wearing the Dior Normandie Tote

The KinnPorsche breakout star and recent luxury campaign darling, Apo Nattawin has consistently proven himself to be one of Southeast Asia’s most stylish leading men. He was seen carrying Dior’s Normandie Tote, a roomy silhouette with crisp architectural lines and subtle branding. Rendered in crisp black, the bag perfectly complements Apo’s tailored style: minimalist but fashion-aware. It’s a utilitarian piece that speaks to both his off-duty polish and red-carpet elegance.

Mile Phakphum

Wearing the Dior Privé Tote

Mile Phakphum’s taste leans toward timeless staples with elevated touches; think monochrome suiting, loafers, and discreet tailoring. His bag of choice? The Dior Privé Tote, a newer addition to the house’s men’s line. With its angular form, rich leather finish, and top-handle design, it brings a sense of authority to his otherwise laid-back looks. It’s an accessory that makes an outfit without shouting, much like Mile himself.

READ MORE: The Thai Fashion Revolution You Didn’t See Coming

Meerqeen

Wearing the Gucci GG Canvas Crossbody

The Malaysian heartthrob and rising fashion star, Meerqeen has a youthful charm that translates well into nostalgic fashion picks. Recently spotted in head-to-toe Gucci, he completed his look with a GG Canvas Crossbody, a logo-heavy piece that nods to the house’s archival aesthetic while keeping things functional and casual. The crossbody, worn across a boxy polo shirt and relaxed trousers, feels like a natural extension of Meerqeen’s offbeat Gen Z appeal: retro, practical, and just a little bit cheeky.

Pedro Pascal

Wearing the Bottega Veneta Andiamo

Pedro Pascal, unofficial ‘daddy’ of the internet and consistent front-row presence, has become known for his embrace of high-end accessories. Most recently, he was seen sporting the Andiamo by Bottega Veneta, an oversized bag made from the house’s signature intrecciato leather. Finished with a brass knot detail, the piece exudes understated luxury. On Pedro, the Andiamo is worn effortlessly, the way someone might sling on an old leather jacket. Proof that quiet luxury, when done right, still speaks volumes.

Timothée Chalamet

Wearing the Chanel Like a Wallet Flap Bag

Known for breaking fashion rules and never shying away from a feminine silhouette, Timothée Chalamet has been at the forefront of gender-fluid menswear. During a recent appearance in New York, the Dune actor paired a Chanel Like a Wallet flap bag, yes, essentially a micro purse, with wide-legged jeans and a bright pink Teflar jacket. The dainty proportions of the bag, worn crossbody, play perfectly against his lean frame and subversive styling. While it may not hold much more than a credit card and lip balm, the impact is outsized.

Brent Manalo

Wearing the Gucci Horsebit 1955 Mini Bag

Brent Manalo is emerging as one of Manila’s most experimental dressers, frequently opting for menswear that mixes streetwear edge with high fashion references. Case in point: the Horsebit 1955 Mini Bag from Gucci. The miniature silhouette, rendered in the house’s monogram canvas and framed by gold hardware, gives just enough vintage energy without feeling costume-y. Worn crossbody or on the shoulder, it elevates even the most relaxed jeans-and-tee ensemble into something editorial-worthy.

Desmond Tan

Wearing the Fendi “Silvia and the Baguette” Soft Trunk

Singaporean actor Desmond Tan’s recent fashion evolution has caught the attention of global style watchers. Known for his clean-cut red carpet style, Desmond recently surprised fans with the Fendi Silvia and the Baguette Soft Trunk, a graphic piece that blends modern menswear codes with a nod to the house’s iconic Baguette. With its sharp edges and utilitarian flair, it works seamlessly with his tailored overcoats and tonal separates. The choice proves that even the most classic dressers can pull off a directional accessory when styled with confidence.

From playful mini bags to luxe oversized carryalls, the new generation of stylish men is making the designer handbag a central piece of their look, not a footnote. Whether functional, fashionable, or both, these bags reflect a shift in menswear where accessories are no longer optional. They’re essential, expressive, and, most importantly, cool.

Photos courtesy Instagram