2020 was a year of significant change in the way we work. Changes in lifestyle directly led to changes in business styles, and naturally, there were major transformations in the way we use and choose bags. A survey conducted on Isetan Men's Instagram ( @isetanmens ) revealed that while business attire varied, backpacks were overwhelmingly the most popular choice for bags. Based on these results, Assistant Buyer Yuhei Kato, nicknamed the "Backpack Meister" and rumored to wear a backpack even while sleeping, will thoroughly explain "what makes a backpack suitable for work."

Business bags are now chosen based on functionality, tailored to each individual's lifestyle.

The sneaker and backpack trends are steadily making their way into the business world. Initially, backpacks gained popularity because they allowed people to keep both hands free and made travel easier. However, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for backpacks arose because people now carry laptops, masks, antibacterial sprays, and other small items, and they also needed something that could be worn with business casual attire. As a result, a wide variety of backpacks, available in different materials, functions, and sizes to suit individual preferences, now occupy a large space in the bag section on the first basement floor of the Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building .



Furthermore, in this new normal era, we've started seeing many women going to work carrying backpacks sold at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . It's true that we're seeing an increase in female customers looking for simple, functional business bags with features like laptop compartments, and backpacks, in particular, have become their first choice.

Spring, with its new beginnings and job transfers, is also a great time to replace your business bag. We've carefully selected six recommended business backpacks to suit your preferences and needs!

1. For those who prefer practicality, ace 's smart "Gadgetable DP" is a perfect fit.

The "Gadgetable DP" backpack from ace., which has become a huge hit for its slim and smart design, is perfect for carrying on front of your backpack on commuter trains. Despite its compact size, it fits A4 documents perfectly, and its solid design and material that suits dressy styles make it highly recommended for businessmen who commute by train and wear suits to work.



This "Gadgetable DP" is a new product, made from coated canvas, and is available only at select stores. Manufactured in ace 's own factory in Hokkaido, it combines reliable Japanese craftsmanship with a sophisticated design and functionality. Its smart, yet not overly casual, design makes it a highly-regarded work backpack.





The separate PC compartment features an L-shaped zipper for easy access from both the top and side, and is made of scratch-resistant pile fabric (left photo). Additionally, the top of the bag has a pocket for storing smartphones and other items. This pocket is designed for easy access to smartphones, earphones, and other items when the backpack is held in front of you, such as on a train. It has a convenient depth and a soft interior (right photo).




Opening the zipper on the side reveals a pocket made of moisture-wicking and quick-drying material, perfect for storing a folding umbrella or water bottle. It also connects to the main compartment, which has a large opening (left photo). The sides of the main compartment are designed to prevent items from falling out by opening too wide (right photo). Despite its simple and clean design, the functionality inside the backpack solves every common problem you might have when using it, making it an excellent backpack.

2. If you like to carry your gadgets together, check out Aer Daily Backpack.

For those who have been working in a "nomad worker" style since before the pandemic and carry all their gadgets with them, Aer backpacks are perfect, with a strong focus on neat and tidy storage. They also pair perfectly with highly functional active suits and other gear.



Aer , a brand born in San Francisco, a city with a large population of IT professionals, has gained popularity for its minimalist design and multi-functionality, which embodies the lifestyle of those who go to the gym after work or commute by bicycle. This backpack also features a streamlined design, combining style and functionality without interfering with fashion.





The "DAY PACK2," a flagship model for Aer , features numerous pockets to accommodate items of various sizes (left photo). A 15.6-inch laptop can be stored through the main opening (right photo), while gadgets, pens, and other small items can be neatly organized in the front pockets. The abundance of storage pockets allows for separate storage of cords and other items, resulting in smoother operation.


The top of the backpack features a small pocket for storing smartphones and other items (left photo). The side pockets are designed to hold water bottles and other items, and some parts are elasticized, allowing them to expand and contract to accommodate the contents (right photo).

3. A masterpiece from Côte&Ciel that satisfies the individuality and functionality demanded by the active lifestyle.

Cote&Ciel, a French brand known for its distinctive designs, is a popular choice for those who specifically seek out their products. While previously popular for casual wear, their items have evolved to be suitable for both on and off-duty occasions, reflecting the changing fashion trends in the business world. Furthermore, they use Eco-yarn, a material made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles, making them a great choice for those who are conscious of the SDGs.







The "Isar" model, with its unique, gracefully curved form, embodies the world of Cote&Ciel, combining casual style with elegance and beauty. Available in S, M, and L sizes, the S size is increasingly popular among women and is a size that can be shared.



The front compartment can hold clothes and shoes, making it perfect for active people who want to exercise after work or lead a seamless lifestyle between work and leisure (left photo). The front compartment's size can also be adjusted with a belt to accommodate different amounts of luggage (right photo). This means you can carry a lot of items or just a little, eliminating the need to switch business bags depending on your daily schedule.



The main compartment has a section that can hold a 13-inch laptop (left photo), allowing you to separate business and personal items. Additionally, there's a secret pocket on the lower right side for storing valuables such as smartphones, e-cards, and keys (right photo).

4. For those who appreciate discerning fashion, we recommend the leather backpack from Kobe-based brand Cornelian Taurus by Daisuke Iwanaga.

For those who prioritize design when choosing a bag, and who are particular about both material and design, our top recommendation is the all-leather backpack from cornelian taurus by daisuke iwanaga . It looks great when paired with an all-black outfit, or styled with natural colors like in this example. Its sophisticated design gives it an overwhelming presence.


Although it may look heavy at first glance, it uses leather that is finished to a thickness of 0.8mm. A cushion has been added to the back to reduce the load. The glossy leather texture will also allow you to enjoy its aging process.




The handles feature a woven design inspired by the hilts of Japanese swords, and the weaving is entirely done by hand, making it a brand icon (left photo). In this family-run brand, the father, who is skilled with his hands, weaves each handle by hand, giving a sense of the warmth of craftsmanship. In terms of design, the round pockets on the sides are distinctive, with the front and back being at different heights. The higher side faces the front, preventing intrusion from the outside, while the lower side faces the body, making it easy for the wearer to reach into the pocket (right photo).


The front pocket zipper can be opened from either the left or right side (left photo), and the main compartment also has a PC pocket, making it not only stylish but also highly functional (right photo).

5. For those who prefer a sophisticated and refined style, ACATE stands out with its simple design and shrink leather.

For those who love classic style, appreciate fashion, and prefer a refined and elegant look, the ACATE "BIZE" backpack is a must-have. Made in Italy, its soft leather exudes sophistication, and its design is easy for women to carry as well.

This backpack, made from thick, uniquely smooth shrink leather, is a new addition to our Spring/Summer 2021 collection. It comes in two sophisticated colors, brown and black, both soft and easy for women to carry. The simple design further highlights the quality of the material.




ACATE 's backpack exudes an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, yet its generous width provides excellent storage capacity (left photo). Furthermore, the high-quality leather texture is a unique and appealing feature (right photo). The shrink leather softens with use, developing a unique character over time—a characteristic only leather can offer.


The zipper details and stitching showcase the high level of design (left photo). The gold color adds a touch of elegance. The main compartment is large enough to comfortably fit A4 size documents and a laptop, and the large front pocket is perfect for storing items you want to access quickly or for smaller items, making it suitable for business settings (right photo). The interior is made of artificial suede, giving the item a refined feel down to the smallest detail.

6. For lifestyle enthusiasts, a custom-made business backpack from master-piece offers multiple functions.

For those with a highly flexible and adaptable lifestyle, the multi-functional and compact master-piece backpack is perfect. Its design is suitable for both work and leisure, and it's not too large even for women. Its versatile design easily complements business casual styles, making it incredibly practical.


master-piece 's hugely popular "age" model has been updated with new materials and interior design! This is a limited-edition backpack available only at select master-piece stores, and it's made in Japan at their own factory in Osaka. It's packed with convenient features and is designed to perfectly fit the changing times.





This backpack has studs on the bottom, making it easy to stand on its own (left photo). What's particularly noteworthy about this backpack is the detachable utility pocket on the front; by attaching a commercially available plastic bag to the snap inside, you can store trash and other items separately (right photo).




The main compartment has an open pocket on the back that can hold a PC or tablet, and can accommodate two tablets (left photo). The front has open pockets on both sides. The zipper at the top of the front is a water-resistant zipper. Furthermore, it is packed with thoughtful details for everyday life, such as a pocket on the shoulder strap for storing Bluetooth earphones (right photo).



The products we've introduced here are just a selection of what we have in stock at our store. If you're considering purchasing a new bag or replacing your old one, please feel free to contact or visit the bag section on the first basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . Our knowledgeable stylists will be happy to assist you.





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Yuhei Kato
He's been in charge of bags at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building for nine years. A true gadget enthusiast, he says that for work bags, "I have a lot of things to carry, so a type that allows for organization is essential." Of the six items introduced here, if he were to buy one next, he would say, "I'd like to use master-piece business backpack, which is made in Japan and has unique features."