There are as many types of bags as there are types of travel. These days men haul as much stuff around as women. There is no denying that every man needs a proper bag to help him stay organized. With the right bag, a guy can make a statement about his manhood and social status. There’s no one bag suits all outfits and occasions, however. In this post series, we break down the five basic types of bags for men, showcasing some popular choices in separate categories.
The Briefcase
Leather briefcases are still modern men’s statement-making bags to the world about who they are and what they are up to. Picking the right one that fits your individual needs in terms of form and function can be tricky. However an ideal briefcase should:
1. Look classic and timeless because it uses only the highest quality materials including hardware – by far the best bag material is hands-down full grain leather.
2. Be smart and versatile because it is designed with work and travel in mind – it should come with ample storage and separate compartments for organization, a permanent handle and a removable cross-body strap that make commuting easier.
3. Be free of logos, needless decorations, contrast stitching, patterns.
4. Match your outfit and be office appropriate – depending on your profession and personal preference, you may opt for a more traditional hard sided case in the elegant black (Business Pro Case LB13)or a softer one in distressed leather finish for a slightly laid-back look (Classic Leather Briefcase Backpack L09).
The importance of color can’t be underestimated. When in doubt stick to the classic colors of black and brown. Black is the most formal option. Dark brown leather is equally elegant, plus it ages beautifully. Both colors are suited for most formal and business casual settings. Or you can be a little bolder by opting for one of our vibrant-colored briefcases in lighter brown (CEO Style Briefcase Backpack L31) and burgundy (Slim Briefcase Laptop Bag LB27). These are versatile colors that give you more options to dress up or down. Just keep in mind that brown leather tends to show marks and scratches here and there from everyday handling. But if you like the look of patinated leather, a brown bag is the perfect choice for you.
The Messenger Bag
Thanks to the rise of more casual workplaces, leather messenger bags are growing in popularity with young professionals and seasoned businessmen alike. These are very practical and stylish bags, well suited for the on-the-go lifestyle of modern city dwellers. Originated in courier bags worn cross-body by bike messengers to deliver letters and documents, modern-day messenger bags are equipped to carry almost anything, from electronics like iPad, laptop, camera to paperwork, books, lunchbox, even baby supplies and look good doing it. There is a wide selection available in terms of style, size, material and many come with innovative features. However when talking about the best features of messenger bag as compared to briefcase and backpack, it all comes down to agility and easy access to contents.
For the guy who isn’t completely sold on the recent men’s bag trend, go for a classic structured design with the trademark flap closure and adjustable strap crafted from durable materials like leather. (Top panel: Casual Messenger Bag Asymmetric Design L35; Bottom panel: Cowhide Leather Messenger L73)
A relaxed version of a briefcase and a classic alternative to the backpack, the messenger bag strikes the right balance between formality and practicality. It’s the most versatile type of bag. “No other bag suits modern living quite as perfectly as the messenger.” Though messenger bags made from nylon or polyester are now fashion accessories faved by college students, travelers and urban commuters, the leather messenger bag remains a tried-and-true classic. It is an astute everyday carry choice when you want something that is just as professional as it is practical.
Men’s messenger bags vary greatly in style and functions. There is the traditional style messenger featuring a clean flap front with buckled/magnetic closure and a padded strap that fits over the shoulder and across body (Right panel: 15″ Casual Messenger Bag model L10). There is the leather brief style messenger with top carry handle in addition to a detachable shoulder strap. It has the elegant look of a briefcase but is softer and easily expandable. It is meant to carry a lot more than merely documents and a laptop without the bulk getting in your way (Bottom left: Laptop Messenger Bag model L55). There is also the tactical style messenger bag for tech-savvy professionals, such as a military tech, who require ample protection, organization and portability for his valuables to complete their daily missions (Top left: Pro Leather Briefcase Messenger Bag model L41).
When searching for that perfect do-everything bag, a basic rule is to pick a bag style that best suits your lifestyle. If you are the typical nine-to-five who takes the same work essentials on the daily, the briefcase style leather messenger is a utilitarian yet stylish option that allows you to smoothly transition from the morning commute to the work day. Make sure the interior offers just the right amount of space for everything you need to get down to business. (Top panel Messenger Laptop Bag LM25)
If you find yourself frequently traveling in more rugged conditions, like going on road trips and outdoor expeditions, you might care more about durability and whether the bag offers secure and convenient storage. A cool-looking rugged stylish leather messenger in bold or distressed color is best suited for this carry scenario. This type of bag is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor wear. Some allow you to zip up the interior under the flap so you can throw the bag around without worrying about your gear falling out. (Bottom left Cowhide Leather Messenger Shoulder Bag LM07)
Or if you live a freelance lifestyle, enjoying working from coffee shops and going around town looking for inspiration, you may find yourself needing an all-in-one, compact bag to carry all your work and miscellaneous items in. Bags that offer max organization and comfort and at the same time look masculine are ideal in this scenario. (Bottom right Vertical Messenger L89)
Continue reading Part II of the Men’s Leather Bags Series here.
