In vintage pictures, it's rare to find a schoolyard scene without at least one character sporting a bag known as the satchel. Attached with handles and a strap that goes over the shoulder, the basic design is recognizable in any period and era.

In vintage pictures, it's rare to find a schoolyard scene without at least one character sporting a bag known as the satchel. Attached with handles and a strap that goes over the shoulder, the basic design is recognizable in any period and era.

The term "messenger bag" is usually interchanged for the bags know as satchels, and as its longevity proves, is still very much a popular fashion accessory until now.

A schoolbag was the main purpose of this item, holding books, writing materials and anything a student may need for school. The common material used for making them was leather, but in these modern times, nylon, canvass and vinyl are also used to produce the newer designs.

A men's version has also come into fashion and is now widely used by men of all ages and backgrounds. They are built compact, unobtrusive, and generally worn over the shoulder. Built to carry items that can't fit into pants or jeans pockets, they have become popular for their functionality and subtle style.

With times changing into a more portable and moving lifestyle, the development of this type of case for laptops and mobile gear has also entered the popular fashion market. There are kinds that are specially built to hold particular items such as cameras, laptops, portable gaming devices, MP3 players, and made of modern materials that suit the mobile lifestyle. There is also the development of the all-in-one techie satchel that holds every kind of gadget you might need on the go. You can fit anything, whether it be a laptop, a portable camera, extra CDR's for burning, a gaming device for idle periods, along with all the cables and wires you need to keep your gear charged.

Last, but certainly not the least, is the biggest consumer group for these popular types of bags. The market for the ladies' version has expanded from simple carry-all satchels to fashion items that adds a stylish touch to any woman's getup. The style with the handles and the strap remains distinct, but are now commonly called simply bags or purses. There are expensive brand named versions that are on the expensive side, but there are really affordable models that any woman can buy. Women usually prefer leather, but there are plenty of materials being used by designers today to suit any woman's need and style.

While the satchel has changed since its conception, its traditional look and function will always be in style. It remains in its own niche today and in tomorrow's fashion trends.