50% hip, 50% banker briefcase for my sweetie?

May 26, 2013 4:09 PM

I'd like to buy the man in my life a briefcase or messenger bag, so he can stop hauling his work papers around in old redwells and plastic bags (!). Looking for something that's polished, yet somewhat stylish, and should also be comfortable for commuting by foot and public transport. Budget is up to $200, but could go a bit over for something really great. Ideas?
posted by anonymous to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (12 answers total)

I've been very happy with this. Mine is brown.
posted by colin_l at 4:14 PM on May 26, 2013

Check out this guide to bags from the "male fashion advice" subreddit - it has several recommendations for messenger bags and briefcase-style bags in your price range, in a bunch of styles.
posted by dreamyshade at 4:18 PM on May 26, 2013 [2 favorites]

I personally love my Zero Elite case. It's not utterly comfortable (ie: no shoulder strap), but it looks kick-ass (it's what you see in every movie where there is a suitcase filled with cash).

New it's outside of your budget, but they can be found on ebay within your budget (and are pretty indestructible).

There are some nice looking Tumi briefcases on ebay as well (retail they are probably over twice your budget); Tumi stuff also lasts forever.
posted by el io at 4:20 PM on May 26, 2013

I would recommend the Filson 256 (used). On ebay you can find it for less than $200 easily. It's only $225 new, if you prefer.
posted by MetalFingerz at 4:34 PM on May 26, 2013

I have the Filson 256. It is amazing, and was more than enough for my old job, but in my new career where I need to carry big books sometimes, I do wish I had splurged for the 257 or 258. But most people probably don't need those sizes. If he is truly carrying just papers, then 256 is good.

But still, absolutely no regrets that I bought the bag. The damned thing is indestructible and shows no damage to this day. The zippers are buttery smooth and strong. I honestly would recommend Filson to all of my family and loved ones.
posted by demagogue at 6:22 PM on May 26, 2013

If you're tempted by Filson but want something more urban in style, try Jack Spade. It's almost as high-quality and durable, but more stylish. Looks good for the city and for office jobs.

FWIW I vote against Tumi. It's expensive but the quality is crap. I carried a Tumi bag for about a year and had to give it up: it got incredibly battered including lots of ugly fraying and fading at the corners.
posted by Susan PG at 6:50 PM on May 26, 2013 [1 favorite]

I carry this, and I've really enjoyed it. It's slim and professional and has both a handle and strap. A bit small for my laptop, however.
posted by charlemangy at 7:16 PM on May 26, 2013

I have nine Freitag bags and they're all awesome. Out of your budget, though.
posted by dobbs at 7:56 PM on May 26, 2013

I love my Cambridge Satchel Company bag. The 15" bag fits my 13" macbook perfectly, plus my iPad, plus a few folders of papers.
posted by missjenny at 8:53 PM on May 26, 2013

For less than $100, you can get a terrific vintage leather satchel on Ebay (this one or this one or this one or this one)

(His initials aren't JAH, SJW, KHW or AHM by any chance, are they?)
posted by superfish at 10:11 PM on May 26, 2013

http://www.knomobags.com/uk/bags/men
posted by panaceanot at 1:38 AM on May 27, 2013

http://www.saddlebackleather.com/Shop/Bags-Briefcases
posted by matty at 8:53 AM on May 27, 2013