The next time you see a man carrying a bag, don’t assume it belongs to his wife. It’s probably his. More men are carrying manbags.

Plank fashion designer Doreen Hing, says it’s about time men in the US began carrying bags. European men have been carrying them for decades.

Hing designed this messenger bag for men. It’s fully lined with interior and exterior pockets and it’s roomy enough for your computer and other work essentials. The cotton canvas bag is available in midnight navy and sage green for $260 at http://www.plankdesigns.com.

Now, there a few rules to consider before getting a manbag.

First, avoid feminine details - tassels, glitter, etc. - and shiny black. You don’t want to look like RuPaul.

Stay away from fake leather or pattererned leather. It’s just too feminine.

A manbag should not be a replacement for a wallet. It should be a decent size bag, square or rectangular, with wide shoulder straps.

Still not sure whether real men carry manbag? Check out what Brad Pitt likes to carry on his arm (other than Angelina Jolie). It’s the “Jamie” storksak, which also happens to be a diaperbag. It sells for $210 at http://www.storksak.com.

Work that bag, Brad!

So, what do you think of men and their bags? Is it fashionable or frightening?