Hobo Bags: The Must-Have Accessory Taking Over Manila
Big enough for essentials, chic enough for your outfit of the day—the Hobo Bag is Manila’s latest fashion must-have
Words by Gabriel Padilla
Featured photo by GVN The Label
April 6, 2025
Jane Birkin, the English-French singer, actress, and style icon, captivated the world in the 1960s with her effortlessly chic style and doe-eyed beauty. Her influence reached new heights when Hermès executive Jean-Louis Dumas noticed her bag overflowing with belongings during a chance encounter on a flight. Jane explained her struggle to find a practical yet stylish leather bag to carry everything she needed. Inspired by her, Hermès created the now-legendary Birkin Bag.
But let’s be real—not everyone has the budget for a prestigious Birkin. The good news? There’s a fashionable, functional alternative that’s just as stylish and far more accessible: the Hobo Bag. With its slouchy silhouette, roomy interior, and endless styling possibilities, the Hobo Bag has become a staple for fashion lovers everywhere. The best part? It’s easy to personalize—add charms, keychains, or a fun scarf to make it uniquely yours.
If you’re looking to get in on the Hobo Bag Mania, here are some must-know local brands in Manila putting their spin on this iconic carryall bag.
GVN
Founded in 2016 by sister duo Keisha and Kaitlin Lao, GVN has redefined the modern city-girl aesthetic in the Philippine fashion scene. Their take on the Hobo Bag quickly gained traction on social media, establishing itself as a stylish, personalized carryall that seamlessly fits into an urban lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through Makati, attending classes, or running daily errands, GVN has become the go-to Hobo Bag for the modern woman on the move.
Their 2025 Suede Collection elevates the classic leather tote with soft, touchable suede, adding texture and depth. This refined yet relaxed design makes it the perfect finishing touch to any city girl’s look—a stylish evolution of the classic bag.
Rags2Riches
Rags2Riches brings intentional design and sustainable materials into the Filipino fashion scene. Committed to highlighting the craftsmanship of Filipino artisans, the brand seamlessly blends sustainability, cultural heritage, and contemporary design. Each piece feels personal, championing local weaves, indigenous patterns, and handmade craftsmanship.
Their Maxi Hobo Oasis Bag features indigenous fabrics finished with sturdy, soft leather—combining function and heritage into a versatile everyday essential. More than just a bag, it’s a celebration of Filipino artistry.
Eve and Adam
Elevating the Filipino local brand scene, Eve and Adam is a proudly homegrown lifestyle brand that blends timeless silhouettes with Filipino craftsmanship. Inspired by high-end designer pieces, the brand reinterprets luxury through a uniquely Filipino lens, using high-quality materials to create versatile statement pieces that prove luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
The Ava Reversible Hobo is a standout piece with its reversible design, offering two looks in one bag to match your mood or outfit. Whether you’re going for a monochrome aesthetic or a pop of color, this clever design keeps your options open—without compromising style or functionality.
Straightforward
Established in 2018, Straightforward has made a name for itself with everyday essentials that come with a twist. Known for its minimalist designs and leather handbags, the brand took a bold step in 2024 by rebranding with more personality and flavor. With the new tagline “Boundless Basics,” the brand now mixes utility with a stronger sense of style, embracing bold colors like maroon, royal blue, and classic creams and browns.
A prime example of this fresh new energy is the Harlow Hobo Bag. With its sleek, exaggerated, and versatile design, it strikes the perfect balance between unique charm and practical functionality. A modern take on the classic hobo silhouette, this bag proves that essentials can still make a statement.
From sustainable craftsmanship to modern city-girl chic, these local brands are proving that the Hobo Bag is more than just a trend—it’s a must-have. Which one fits your style best?
