The Edit: The best briefcases for back to work
Whether you’re a sleek high-flyer, or take life with a little more colour, every working gentleman should have a signature briefcase. Here’s our pick of the best...
Words: Russell
January is a tough month. Whether you’re attempting dry January or just diving headlong back into the daily slog of work, getting back into the swing of things after a lazy — and predictably boozy break is difficult at the best of times.
But it’s even harder if you’re not organised. Scrambling for documents in your home study or being hit by an avalanche of unfiled papers once you make it into the office isn’t fun for anyone. So, to fend off the harshest and often busiest month of the year, why not pick up a new briefcase to help you stylishly make sense of the mayhem?
We’ve filed our own favourite briefcases into three neat categories so, whatever you may be looking for, you can find it easily and be your best, most organised self going into the year ahead.
The globe-trotting businessman must travel practically
If you find yourself on planes more frequently than the rest of the workforce, hopping to a different continent every week for meetings and meet-ups, you’ll need a tough travel companion. To keep up with the air miles you’re racking up, these three briefcases have enough space for all of your inflight essentials — and look great, too.
With Globe-Trotter’s case, the credentials can be found in the name. Truly made for international gentlemen, it is crafted from tough pebble-grain leather in Hertfordshire. High-flying brand Aspinal are also no strangers to travel, and their Aerodrome Business Bag is more than up to jet-setting. Or, if you’re more used to turning left when you board the plane, then this bag from Mulberry will be your perfect in-flight companion.
To make waves in the boardroom, add a splash of colour
Not every business occasion calls for a suit and tie. Sometimes, it’s better to take a less formal approach — and that’s the perfect time to add a splash of colour to your business-casual ensemble.
The Westminster by Ettinger is a classic look in a light brown hue that we absolutely love for smart casual. For a softer look, this olive green suede bag from Hylton Goods is a singular look but one that will get you more compliments than you may think. Or, if you’re a fan of British heritage then Connolly is the company for you. Having upholstered British establishments from the Houses of Parliament to Concorde, you can rest assured that this bag will be with a trusty statement piece for years to come.
Show your sophistication with a luxury, pared-back briefcase
You walk into a meeting and what’s the first thing you do? Put your briefcase on the table. So, let’s make sure that it’s not some tattered, worn-through affair — and instead is a carefully-chosen reflection of you and how you conduct your business; namely, neat, organised and smart. Trust us, first impressions count.
And what better brand to help you make one than Smythson, with their French calfskin Grosvenor slimline briefcase? Or, for another power player of a bag, the Boston from Dunhill is smart, simple and perfectly proportioned. Alternatively, Berluti — who have been created quality garments since 1895 — have continued their high standards with this latest, which also doubles as a handy portfolio.
Now check out the best sunglasses to suit your winter style…
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