Honestly, I don't know what all the fuss is about. So your man carries a purse? What's a girl to do? It's not such a big deal, is it? Ever since the airing of the Seinfeld episode where Jerry starts carrying a "European Carry-all", the man bag has truly found its place in popular culture. That particular episode is, by far, my favorite.
The man purse that Jerry was carrying was actually quite nice. I mean, if you are going to carry a purse it ought to be a nice one. While the episode elicited a lot of laughter, it brought up some interesting points. For instance, why do men feel so uncomfortable calling a purse a purse? Handbag designers take note! One day in the not-so-distant future, the market for man purses is going to explode. That's my prediction, for what it's worth.
I think the biggest challenge for designers to overcome when approaching this untapped market, is the marketing angle. How do you sell a traditionally feminine handbag to a traditionally insecure male? If designers can manage to get the marketing mix just right, they could reap massive sales. Man bag? Murse? European Carry-all? Whatever!
At this point, a lot of progressive and adventurous men have started to test the waters. Although they are more common in Europe, many a man can be spotted in major American metropolitan areas carrying their Murses with pride. And no, not that kind of pride! And if I hear the name Metrosexual one more time, I am going to freak out!
To be honest, I feel sorry for those brave men out there. In the world of women's fashion, we have countless designers to choose from. We also have dozens of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials to explore. Most of the Murses I have seen have all been very plain, simple leather. I think a company like Dolce & Gabbana could lead the way for other designers. Those lads are flamboyant and masculine at the same time. Would it be so difficult for them to incorporate those principles into a well crafted, handsome Murse?
Wouldn't it be nice, ladies, if your man could carry your make-up or mobile phone? Do we dare to dream about a day when our significant other reaches into his Murse and passes us a tissue during one of those horribly depressing chick flicks we all know and love? Just imagine the possibilities. I recently convinced my boyfriend to try one out. I just have to spend a lot more time reassuring him of his manliness. No big deal