I wanted a classy, fashionable and functional backpack and The Clässy Gaston Luga Backpack fit the bill perfectly

Some time last year, I was introduced to Gaston Luga – a brand of backpacks that had a sleek Scandinavian design that is currently quite in. It was a canvas backpack that was different from many of the bags I carry, and I found it surprisingly useful. But also rather larger than I expected.

So, when the opportunity arose again to try another one of Gaston Luga backpacks, I picked the Clässy design and you know what? This one’s classy!

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For anyone who is looking for a fashionable, yet practical backpack, I’d suggest that you take a look at the Gaston Luga Clässy backpack. As you can see from my modelling shots (ha!) the size is much better suited to my height for day-to-day use, compared to the Classic backpack which I feel better suits travel.

Let me show you a few more pictures, and I actually used this while on my year-end holiday in Bangkok last year, so I can tell you that it’s a travel work-horse too! 🙂

Like the Classic design, the Gaston Luga Clässy has a canvas body, and the black on black design I got boasts a red interior and gold hardware. I like how the gold hardware sets off very nicely against the black, and adds a touch of fashion to it.

The design is far more sleek, and is slimmer. This, I feel, flatters the female form better, as it isn’t chunky even if you fill it to the brim. There is a drawstring closure, and a large flap with a very strong magnet clasp. Unlike the Classic backpack, there are no external pockets, except for the signature hidden pocket at the back.

I find that the hidden pocket on the Clässy isn’t deep enough to hold my phone, unlike the Classic version. But it does hold your passport and keeps it hidden against your back, handy to be pulled out whenever you need it at the airport. You can also use it to hold travel cards or train tickets, which is what I did while in Bangkok.

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The flap and straps are synthetic leather, and while the straps are thin, I found them comfortable on my shoulders. I will have to tell you that mine came with the flap creased, and it doesn’t really lose the creases. It did not bug me, but if a very sleek and smooth design matters to you, then do take note.

The straps did not cut into my shoulders, nor did it feel stiff. Design-wise, I feel that this is better designed than the Classic backpack, especially for those who’d like to use it on a daily basis. You can slip your laptop into the interior padded pocket. It fits my 13″ laptop which is a slim Ultrabook, but I’m not sure it will fit the thicker laptops.

What is definitely to be noted is that the Gaston Luga Clässy backpack is a primarily fashion backpack, because it does look much better when carried, holding a ton, while remaining sleek.

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Dress – Dorothy Perkins (ancient), Denim Jacket – Gap (old), Boots – Camper (old) 

There is a handy loop that allows you to carry the bag upright in tight spaces, and as you can see above, the size is fairly compact. It served me well while travelling as well, for it held most of my hand-carry items comfortably – a travel wallet, money wallet, scarf, water bottle, phone, notebook, snacks, a camera and some basic toiletries. The lack of outer pockets did bum me a little, especially when I try to reach for my water bottle on the go. But in this case, any outer pockets would add more bulk than necessary.

For a limited time, on top of my 15% discount code you can use, and the worldwide free shipping, Gaston Luga is also offering a brand new free Plånkan cardholder worth RM215, that you see below.

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It is made of synthetic soft leather, embossed with the Gaston Luga logo, and is very pliable. It comes in 2 colours – Brown (as shown here) and Black. It holds  at least 4 cards comfortably, with a pocket for holding notes. I sometimes use this while I’m out on a quick errand, and don’t want to carry my wallet. Or when I want to carry a little sling bag. I’m learning to carry small bags now and my large bags are gathering dust! 😛

WHERE CAN I BUY THE GASTON LUGA BACKPACKS?

If you’re interested in this backpack, you can buy them directly from Gaston Luga website.  For those shipping outside the EU (that’s especially so for those of us in Malaysia) the Swedish VAT (currently 20%) is automatically deducted from the price of the item. After that, you can use my promotion code “PARISB15” for an additional 15% discount (I don’t get any money from this but I’ll love you for it! 😀 ). Shipping by courier service is free worldwide and you are charged in your local currency.

LIMITED SEASONAL OFFER: A FREE leather luggage tag or Plankan card holder will be added to all orders of backpacks while stocks last!

E.g. The Gaston Luga Clässy backpack retails at RM785. If you ship to Malaysia, you will pay RM533.80 (RM785 – RM157 20% VAT – RM94.20 15% discount code PARISB15).

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Gaston Luga has about 3-4 designs of backpacks, and my personal favourite is the Clässy. I do feel that it is important to decide what you really want to use the backpack for, and if you will be unduly bothered by the use of a drawstring closure. Personally speaking, I do not find the drawstring to be a hassle. In crowded places, I never carry my backpack on my back anyway, for security purposes. It served me well while travelling, and held my essentials while out and about, while looking pretty good.

What I do wish could be improved upon is the weight. This Clässy backpack weighs less, and is easier to carry, even when stuffed full. But there is still a weight to it even while empty. The other designs, which are larger, do tend to be quite heavy on their own. If Gaston Luga could find a way to reduce the weight (perhaps by using a lighter woven canvas) I think it would improve on the product even further because design-wise, they have it down pat!

Have you gotten into the backpack carrying trend?

I think those who commute by public transport will find a backpack useful. I use this one quite often because it fits my semi-casual style. As the name implies, I think it quite classy! 😀

Paris B