Above: Maia wears the Supernatural Backpack

The word “backpack” may conjure up thoughts of your teenage years and toting around textbooks, but we’ve reimagined this grade-school staple into an offering that is sleek enough for work, the weekend, or a night out on the town. New Zealand model and blogger Maia Cotton schools us the art of backpack styling.

Above: In the bag: The Sporto Mim Pouch

Above: Maia wears the Supernatural Backpack on the streets of New York

A mix of ultra-modern materials and graphic prints breathe new life into this practical silhouette, and the results are streamlined, elegant and oh-so wearable.

The Splendiosa Backpack

“I love the idea of a new wave of accessories that are designed for all women, not just for those still hitting the study halls.” – Maia Cotton

Whichever way you swing it, the backpack is a creative carryall. Soft leather or sturdy sytnhetics, an all-around zip entry and sleek hardware transform this traveller favourite into a chic and modern accessory.

Above: The Supernatural Backpack

Part backpack, part ladylike satchel, strap it to your back when you’re feeling nostalgic, sling it over one shoulder to rock it like a tote, or grab it by the top handle for effortless grab and go style.