I used to wonder why my older laptop backpack was so large. All I had in it was a computer, some cables, and an accessory or two - I looked like a trail hiker walking around with it. I was recently presented with the Loopbag Vanguard laptop backpack and I realized I can finally carry around my computer essentials without looking silly - In fact the backpack looks pretty good. Aside from this backpack in several colors, Loopbag makes a range of bags, packs, and other portable computer essentials in a fun range of colors that will remind you of Timbuk2 and Crumpler.

The namesake of the backpack makes sense when looking at it head on as you see two zippered areas that form two loops. It makes for a hip, modern look, and one that is simple enough to have broad appeal. I get the impression that the backpack was designed based upon a functional concept as opposed to just a look, and the system is pretty clever. It gives you multiple access points so things inside are easier to find, which is good because you don't have to unload everything to get to things buried inside, as you can access the main compartment from the front or rear on both sides. Inside the back is a whole range of little pouches - mostly zippered - for any manner of small or large items. I enjoy frequently finding new areas to store little items on the Loopbag such as a small pouch for cash or keys located on one of the shoulder straps.

Fancy backpacks, so beloved in the late 1990s, may be back in fashion. Gucci is certainly trying to make it happen with their new large leather backpack which offers a bit more room than the previous smaller incarnations. The bag has interchangeable hobo straps, front zip pockets and interior cell phone and PDA zip pockets and can be either carried as a hobo or worn as a backpack . You can pre-order at Neiman Marcus for $2,590.

Cult designer Raf Simons (of Jil Sander fame) has recently launched his second line of handbags and backpacks for Eastpak, creating one of your best chances to relive junior high as the cool kid. The backpack at right retails for $234 and is available at South Willard in Los Angeles.

[via The Los Angeles Times]

Backpacks are so handy but it can be really hard to find one that doesn't look too "schoolish." This Metallic Nylon Backpack by Just Cavalli fits the bill for me, though, with its casual floppy nature combined with a healthy dose of trendy metallic style and "flash" appeal. Strikes me as a great bag for the girl who likes to wear stiletto heels with her blue jeans. Made of woven nylon with snakeskin- printed leather trim, it has pockets galore (obviously, it is a backpack after all), a snakeskin-printed textile lining, and a magnetic closure at the top. $750

Like Ducati bikes? Now you can get the luggage to match. The motorcycle maker has become the latest brand to license their name to a luggage line. The Ducati Collection by Tumi is a line of eight red and black bags with the Ducati logo. The line ranges from a $35 key ring to the $435 carry-on shown here. Love the red and black and the rounded handle but is the big white logo on the side really necessary?