FutureFinders: Sling bags top functionality list

FutureFinders spots emerging trends and the products on Global Sources that help drive these trends, with the first episode focusing on the latest developments in the ever-evolving world of fashion.

Over the next several weeks, we will examine these hot fashion trends in a series of articles. And the first of these trends is functionality, as represented by what’s fast-becoming a fashion staple, the sling bag.

The sling bag’s appeal comes from the convenience it offers. The Swirlster Picks team wrote that sling bags are “a hot favourite because of their compact structure and the convenience of carrying them.”

Crossbody bags, a variation of the sling bag, were described by Olie Arnold in a Bloomberg article as “the functional hybrid of a backpack and a briefcase, and an alternative to both.” Mr. Arnold is the style director of online retailer Mr Porter.

Most sling bags have roomy pockets and multiple compartments that can hold items of varying sizes. These can range from as small as a piece of gum or a pen to as big as a folded shirt or towel.

The sling bag featured in the FutureFinders video, for example, has a main section and a zipped pocket inside, plus a slit pocket in front.

Get more information about this 18x9x32cm sling bag from Global Sources Verified Manufacturer Maxtop here.

A combination sling, messenger and shoulder bag from Muni, meanwhile, has a 30 to 40L capacity.

The bag also has small pocket designed specifically for earphones. The earphones are then threaded through an opening on the side for easy access.

Measuring 22x8x38cm, a water-resistant sling bag from Letsgo can hold an iPad. Polyester inner lining protects against scratches. The sling bag also has a front pocket where a smartphone can be stored.

This, however, does not mean sling bags are just purely functional as new and upcoming releases focus on the style element as well, with bright colors, prints and patterns brightening up the selection.

Sandoo, for instance, has released a lightweight sling bag in a range of colors, including red. The bag measures 35.5×17.4×7.5cm and is made of nylon.

These sling bags are just a sampling of the wide range available on GlobalSources.com.

Narrow down your choices. Start with a sample order that you can test and inspect to make sure your quality requirements are met and that your potential partner supplier has the manufacturing capability you need.

Start your sling bags sourcing with a sample order

Check out this on how to use the sample order page.