Where it all began:
In the early days of humanity, our ancestors were often hunter gatherers or foragers and they would use sling bags to carry crucial supplies.
Without the sling bag, life would have been even more difficult because it would mean leaving behind supplies, which could literally be the difference between life and death.
As mankind evolved, trade became crucial to our growth. This meant travellers had to spend more time on the road.
People had to be wary of bandits and thieves, so having a pouch which one could hide on his/her person was extremely important.
Ötzi, also known as the Iceman, lived at a time between 3350 and 3105 BC. He was found frozen in ice in the mountain region of Austria. Otzi's perfectly preserved possessions included a leather pouch full of berries, flints and gold.
We don’t see the pouch as a huge part of mankind’s journey from the caves to where we are today, but how wrong we are to underestimate this simple yet crucial piece of kit.
The medieval ages:
During the medieval ages, people wore pocketless tunics and robes and so they needed a pouch for their valuables. The historical images of pouches show incredible designs and details and it was in the medieval times that the pouch became a serious fashion accessory.
Victorian era:
Fast forward to the Victorian times and women needed a way to carry their valuables.
Handbags didn’t become popular during the Victorian era only because of style. Victorian women were all about looking their best in public. An exquisite pouch was another way to show off her social status and enhance her overall appearance.
More importantly, it was a place where she could easily store handkerchiefs, pencils, a fan, and calling cards.
The fanny pack:
The precursor to the sling bag was the fanny pack.
In 1954, Sports illustrated featured a leather fanny pack for skiers in their Christmas shopping guide.
"The lightweight leather fanny pack is designed to hold a cross-country skier's wax and lunch. It's also useful for cyclists, hikers and equestrians.“
The modern version made from nylon and other synthetic materials came into use in the 1980s and they were especially in vogue in the 1990s, but their use fell into decline in the 2000s.
The fanny pack becomes cool.
In 2012, several designer labels sought to bring the accessory back by offering stylish and innovative designs.
Icons such as Kanye West, Rihanna, Jaden Smith, and Russell Westbrook started to wear sling bags thereby solidifying them as a fashion staple.
The STPL sling-bag:
We are so proud to have created a product which evolves the journey of perhaps the oldest fashion accessory in the world.
Before humans wore jewellery or used any other accessory, the sling bag was a crucial piece of kit.
We are honoured to be a part of the journey.