Sure there were loads of backpacks hanging from shoulders on the Spring runways, but it takes more than that to start a trend. The key ingredient needed to fuel a fashion fire is a few key celebrities sporting the look for all their fans to see. Like Rachel Bilson toting a backpack at the Coachella Music Festival a few weeks ago. And Mary-Kate Olsen carrying a Pendleton leather and fabric backpack on the red carpet at the opening of the new Otarian restaurant in NYC.

These ladies have given everyone fashion permission to embrace a piece that many of us left behind back in college. But considering that the average handbag now weighs in at 5 pounds, this trend may also be a healthy choice. Besides saving your back, backpacks leave your hands free, making them a perfect choice for shopping sprees. And any traveler knows there’s no easier way to tote all your travel gear. After all, no regular handbag can fit bottled water, a camera, sunscreen, maps, guidebook, snacks and more.

And while you could grab one of this season’s designer versions, I much prefer the worn-in patina of today’s VPOD. This vintage leather backpack has seen quite a few miles and it makes me wonder just where it’s been—Paris? London? Belize? Nova Scotia? Heck, even if it never leaves your neighborhood, you’ll appreciate the outside pockets and the sturdy construction.

It’s a brilliant backpack find for a vintage fashionista!

Available at Katy Kane Vintage & Couture Clothing.

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