The messenger bag; a staple of students, commuters, and fashion-lovers alike.
It’s the ultimate carry-all, combining practicality with a distinctly laid-back look. But how did this everyday essential become a global icon of style?
To truly appreciate the enduring appeal of the messenger bag, we need to look at its journey from a tool of the trade to a fashion statement.
In this guide, we’ll tell the story of how the messenger bag went from humble beginnings to becoming one of Gola’s core fashion staples.
Contents:
The history of the messenger bag
The Gola Redford Messenger Bag: A Timeless Icon
The history of the messenger bag
The history of the messenger bag is rooted in function, not fashion.
Its origins can be traced back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, where it was the trusted companion of postmen, utility linemen, and military couriers. The design was born out of necessity: a durable, single-strap bag worn across the body, leaving the hands free for carrying tools, maps, or dispatches. Its large flap provided quick, easy access to contents while on the move, a feature that remains central to its design today.
The cultural shift of messenger bags began in the mid-20th century. Adopted by bicycle couriers in bustling urban centres, the messenger bag became synonymous with speed, efficiency, and a certain gritty, rebellious spirit.
By the 1990s, this look had broken into the mainstream, evolving from a practical necessity to a must-have accessory for students, creative professionals, and anyone seeking a bag that was less formal than a briefcase, but more stylish than a backpack.
Gola enters the bag market
From the birth of the Gola brand in 1905, the focus was on footwear.
With a rich history steeped in sport and speed, by the 1960s and ‘70s, Gola had become a dominant force in British sportswear, with our iconic trainers seen on athletes and fans alike. With this rapid expansion, moving into accessories was a natural progression.
During this golden era, the Gola messenger bag was born.
In 1972, Gola launched a collection of sportswear and accessories that perfectly captured the mood of the time.
The bags, with their bold branding, clean lines, and vintage flair, quickly became a must-have accessory for all. They were more than just a way to carry your belongings; they were a symbol of athletic cool and British style.
The Gola Redford Messenger Bag: A Timeless Icon
Whilst a variety of messenger bags have been adopted into our collections over the years, there was one design that rose above the rest as a Gola icon and an enduring classic: the Redford messenger bag.
Launched in 1974, the Redford became an instant success. Taking styling cues from the Northern Soul and Mod movements of the era, the Redford combines a smart, structured silhouette with a sporty edge. The bag’s standout features, the striking contrast piping, the prominent Gola logo, and its practical size made it a favourite among students and the style-conscious who wanted to carry their essentials without compromising their style.
Today, our Redford messenger bag remains a cornerstone of the Gola Classics collection. With its timeless design and unisex appeal, the Redford is just as relevant now as it was 50 years ago.
While new colourways and materials keep it feeling fresh, the modern Redford bag retains the look and feel of the original, proving that true style never goes out of fashion.
Shop messenger bags at Gola
From its humble beginnings as a practical tool to its current status as a fashion icon, the messenger bag has a rich history combining fashion and functionality.
Gola’s messenger bags are timeless accessories with a unique heritage that has stood the test of time. The icon of the collection, the Gola Redford messenger bag, isn’t just a piece of fashion history; it’s a testament to the power of classic design. It’s the perfect blend of form and function—a bag you’ll want to carry not just for its practicality, but for its iconic fashion status.
