Rare Backpacks
21st Century and Contemporary Coats and Outerwear
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Shoulder Bags
Mid-20th Century Austrian Black Forest Chandeliers and Pendants
Iron
20th Century Unknown Backpacks
21st Century and Contemporary French Backpacks
21st Century and Contemporary French Backpacks
1990s Backpacks
Late 20th Century French Backpacks
Belgian Backpacks
1990s Italian Backpacks
21st Century and Contemporary Backpacks
1990s French Backpacks
1990s French Backpacks
1990s French Backpacks
Antique 19th Century American Tobacco Accessories
Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Luggage and Travel Bags
1990s French Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags
Late 20th Century French Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags
Late 20th Century French Structured Shoulder Bags
Late 20th Century French Structured Shoulder Bags
1980s French Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags
1990s French Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags
1990s Unknown Backpacks
1990s French Backpacks
1990s French Backpacks
20th Century Italian Backpacks
1990s Italian Backpacks
2010s French Top Handle Bags
Late 20th Century French Bucket Bags and Drawstring Bags
Late 20th Century French Structured Shoulder Bags
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Rare Backpacks For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much are Rare Backpacks?
Finding the Right Backpacks for You
Vintage and designer backpacks do more than carry our books, notebooks, electronic devices and other possessions to and fro. They are also a reflection of personal taste and style. Whether it’s an understated solid color — black backpacks will remain forever timeless — or it’s emblazoned with a dazzling graphic pattern or an iconic fashion house’s logo, a backpack makes a statement.
In 1908, decades before the JanSports and Eastpaks of the world materialized, Norwegian Ole Bergan crafted the first backpack, whittling and shaping a juniper branch to support a robust canvas rucksack on his back. Twenty-five years later, the patent on Bergan’s wildly convenient and functional accessory expired, and backpacks became popular with hikers, campers and other outdoor enthusiasts as other designers and companies scrambled to develop their own iterations. During the late 1930s, the first zippered backpack appeared — for students, it was a significant improvement over carrying their books with a leather belt.
Some designer backpacks are sleek and sporty, while others attract attention with flashy brass hardware and a textured exterior flap. While the innumerable handbag lovers of our modern times continue to gravitate toward iconic labels — classic bags still rule — today’s shoppers are savvier and have a wider range of shopping options. Backpacks designed by universally renowned brands such as Gucci, Dior and Burberry are similarly alluring when it comes to finding the perfect carryall.
Heavy-duty nylon backpacks or those made with polyester are likely the most common, but many alternatives can be found in canvas, leather and suede. The best backpack for you might be one that is modest in size and discreet, and thus ideal for carrying a few items. If that sounds like what you need, explore crossbody bags and messenger bags, as they’re a bit easier to access and you don’t have to remove the bag to get to its contents. Others may seek a bag that is spacious enough to fit all of the supplies for an overnight hike, in which case, a sturdy, structured backpack might be a better fit.
Whether it is for fashion, function or both, there is a backpack suited to every individual. Find yours in the extensive collection of vintage and designer backpacks on 1stDibs.
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