Women are never without their purses. Just about everything – perhaps even their lives - are in there as well. If it gets lost, it would be a terrible tragedy. But did you know that men also have things to carry around that require the use of a bag, too? Instead of finding lip gloss, mascara, and a compact, the contents you will probably find inside a man’s bag are keys, laptop, wallet, an mp3 player, the latest portable gaming console, a cell phone or two – everything to fit his macho needs.

But unlike women, men have to find the right kind of bag or “man purse” to keep them from sending out the wrong impressions, which is being gay. It is tough to find such a bag but don’t lose hope. It is out there somewhere. You just have to keep on searching for it.

To avoid being labeled gay, still have your manly reputation intact, and carry around a bag, here are a couple of pointers to remember when hunting for that perfect man purse.

• It’s all about material. Try looking for masculine bags with materials that are not frilly, not lacy, not feminine. There are a couple of materials for bags that makes them durable, weather-proof, and able to withstand the use and abuse a man is bound to put them through. Denim, waterproof nylon, canvas, worn leather, and suede are good examples of sturdy material for bags.

• Choose your color with care. Go with masculine colors like black, gray, brown, blue or dark green. These will easily match the clothes that you already have. Also, go for bags with solid colors. Avoid anything that is flashy or overly decorated.

• Pick the one that’s the most functional. Remember that this is a man purse, not a woman’s handbag, we are talking of here. You are buying the bag for its functionality and not as an accessory. Get those with plenty of convenient pockets where you can stash your keys and other items and keep you from rummaging inside your bag like a woman.

• Consider the bag’s style. You will never run out of styling options, but be sure to keep it simple.

  • The messenger bag: this is the bag of choice for male students. It has a diagonal strap that goes across the chest and hangs at the side.

  • The duffel: this is a classic bag put to classic use. It has an athletic feel so remember to go easy on the bag-clothing pairing if you don’t want to look like you’re going to the gym.

  • The carry-on bag: these originated from airline bags. They can only be carried with your hand and not slung over the shoulder. This is perfect for young professionals with laptops and binders.

How you carry and use your bag matters just as much as how your bag looks like. If you want to look like a man with a man’s bag, then you should act like it – bag up with style and masculinity.