John, I still use a handmade hardcase Condotti black leather briefcase that my late wife gave me in 1985 when she headed up two national chains of jewellers. It was the best and most expensive briefcase that you could buy in Australia in 1985 and it cost $US1,000 and it was worth every cent. I was dealing at Board level with the Top 20 ASX Companies, the Top 10 Government Departments and the Top 4 Banks and whenever I laid that very plain case on an Executives desk none of them ever commented on it. But whenever I opened it I always walked away with the multi-million dollar contract. Everyone had bespoke suits, silk ties and expensive watches, but none of them owned a plain black leather briefcase that simple said ------ I am in charge of this situation, but you have to be able to have the contract ready to sign, on the spot because it's really "All smoke and mirrors" and pure theatre. Phil.
Personally I lean towards the messenger bag which I use for travel. I will take a look at Mahi based on your recommendation. If John recommends it, it has to be good. Thank you, John! OK...I just ordered a handsome messenger bag and I look forward to finally being able to use it once this pandemic is over. I think your sense of style is superior. You have such a sharp, discriminating eye.
I think the briefcase is ideal for any business function, messenger bags are just a bit too much of a preppy, university student look when used in the context of business. I also love messenger bags, actually I’m kind of a bag nerd, I won’t tell you how many I’ve bought looking for “the 1”. However I digressed, the messenger bag is great for everyday use. My rule of thumb is no bulky external pockets but at least one quick access and 1 on the back so securing certain items externally is easier. In both cases I prefer the slimmest bag that fits your needs but especially in the case of the messenger bag don’t get one too small or it looks like a man purse. So as slim as possible in front to back depth but at least wide enough to carry an iPad or what ever item is you biggest. I haven’t seen a hard case briefcase in use by anyone but lawyers and generally only the huge rolling document type that is actually hard to call a briefcases but I think technically is. If leather is not your thing check out BillyKirk. They’re a US manufacture and have a line that is inexpensive, built using a very high quality wax canvas and are made in NJ (I think). The quality is excellent. They have 2 main models, one super slim (my choice) and one a bit wider plus they have a good pretty colour selection. Your sponsors bags are very aggressively priced for all leather bags, it’s nice to see. Personally I’m a NO monogram on the bag kind of guy - I think it distracts from the clean lines you get in a briefcase, I just find it draws the eye a bit too much like logos on shirts. Final thought, rather than a ton of internal storage I prefer a few pockets for stuff I access all the time and a padded and elevated laptop pocket, that’s it. For everything else I use a pouch with all kinds of segmentation in it. This way just by moving just the pouch and a few other items I can quickly change bags when I need too. You also won’t need to remember which pockets has or is for what. Cheers, Christopher
I take the train to work, so a messenger bag is ideal. I’ll take a back pack when it rains. If I drive into the office I’ll carry a briefcase. Most of my leather bags are from Infinity Firenze in Florence Italy. Or I use Billingham camera bags as messenger bags.
I switched from an attache case when I was at university after work. I switched to a brief case over time. I use the shoulder strap as it means I have both hands free & for handshakes - Pre Covid 19 of course. I have used this bag as an overnight work bag - slip in a spare shirt, socks, underwear & toiletries I am ready to go.
Love my Mahi messenger bag. I debated getting a briefcase but eventually decided for the messenger bag to start with. Now that I have been using my bag for some time I am looking into the briefcase as an additional bag. My Mahi messenger has been used and abused and still looks great. The leather requires minimal upkeep to keep looking great. I think I’ll be using that code of yours shortly. Have a great day John!
I have both a soft sided black leather briefcase and a canvas messenger bag that I bought a couple of years ago and which doubles as a carry on when going on vacation (vintage safari look). I also have an inexpensive backpack to use when hiking (don't care if it gets wet or dirty) - but definitely not for work. In addition many companies like their employees to use branded products so I have a material (doesn't feel like canvass) black padded computer/briefcase from work.
I have a leather briefcase from Saddleback Leather that I use for short trips and daily carry but when flying I have a leather Back Pack that is much easier to throw over a shoulder and can hold everything I need for a mobile office.
Please keep in mind that quite a few of us have been zeroed out this year - and no longer have the funds to be considering $500 to $1,000 "fashion" items. Nowadays we tend towards more economical and practical items...
Love the look of totes but The only issue with totes is the capacity - briefcases and messenger bags are meant to be functional and often mine are full of materials.
While stylistically, I would prefer to carry a briefcase by the handle, a hand injury prevents me from carrying anything too heavy which makes a messenger more practical. Also, I use a canvas to reduce the weight especially when I travel for work and walking long distances is sometimes necessary.
I've never liked carrying things in my pockets. For most of my adult life, I've carried a small bag to hold wallets, keys, phones (when they became small enough to carry with you); anything I thought I could use. Briefcases/early computer bags were too big, Camera bags didn't look right. Laptop bags were thin, but still too much bag.Then came the "man bag" (possible topic?). Right-sized for individual needs, stylish; just enough. I carry a NutSac satchel (yeah, I bought it for the name).
Stylistically, they look different but functionally the two bags appear to have little distinction.Both bags look great; I would have a hard time choosing between them.
John, what distinguishes a messenger bag from a briefcase? Wish you had delineated that at the beginning of your video. I assume it's more than whether there is a flap overlay closure.
Just bought a high quality soft leather briefcase, switching from a messenger bag. Should have done it years ago, much more professional (in my opinion).
Hi John. I don't have a need for either of these bags as I don't carry any of these items but I will say both bags are nice. BTW any chance for a critique video of holiday wear this year? Something like from refined to ridiculous. Peace. :)
The old box briefcases are outdated. Atleast from a stylist point of view. New modern hard briefcase with round corners are modern. There are some box briefcases like the discontinued Jack spade, but that's a modern briefcase that not only has style, but function.
John, I REALLY enjoy your channel but I have to express some strong disagreement here. To me, nothing says "low-status flunky" like a messenger bag. Can I just point out that they call it a MESSANGER bag for a reason? A man who carries a briefcase these days is sending a subtle message saying "Other people carry things for me.". In fact, I still carry the leather, soft-sided Coach briefcase my wife gave me at the start of my career over 30 years ago. It looks like it's aged well because I keep it well-oiled and clean and have had it re-sewn. Result: it provides a terrific contrast to my clothes which are always fashionable, age-appropriate, and up-to-date, thanks to your excellent advice.
Organization is a little different and the outer pocket on the messenger bag is different. Zipper closure vs. flap and buckle also. Some differences, but pretty close.
@@40OverFashion What quality luggage brand or leather goods do U recommend for travel & /or everyday use ? I have some Coach items but I’m thinking something more different without having to pay for the marketing that goes into some of those brands.. 👋🏻
A lot has to do with openings and carry options. Both have a shoulder strap (unusual on a regular briefcase), but the Mahi briefcase has long purse like handles that you don't need is using the shoulder strap. The briefcase zippers down the middle while the other has a flat on one side.
John, I still use a handmade hardcase Condotti black leather briefcase that my late wife gave me in 1985 when she headed up two national chains of jewellers. It was the best and most expensive briefcase that you could buy in Australia in 1985 and it cost $US1,000 and it was worth every cent.
I was dealing at Board level with the Top 20 ASX Companies, the Top 10 Government Departments and the Top 4 Banks and whenever I laid that very plain case on an Executives desk none of them ever commented on it. But whenever I opened it I always walked away with the multi-million dollar contract.
Everyone had bespoke suits, silk ties and expensive watches, but none of them owned a plain black leather briefcase that simple said ------ I am in charge of this situation, but you have to be able to have the contract ready to sign, on the spot because it's really "All smoke and mirrors" and pure theatre. Phil.
Thanks Phil! That's awesome!
Personally I lean towards the messenger bag which I use for travel. I will take a look at Mahi based on your recommendation. If John recommends it, it has to be good. Thank you, John!
OK...I just ordered a handsome messenger bag and I look forward to finally being able to use it once this pandemic is over. I think your sense of style is superior. You have such a sharp, discriminating eye.
Thanks Roberto! I have several bags from them and they're great, especially for the price.
@@40OverFashion Just edited my comment. I did, in fact, order a tan messenger bag. Your sense of style is sharp and discriminating “in my opinion.”
I think the briefcase is ideal for any business function, messenger bags are just a bit too much of a preppy, university student look when used in the context of business. I also love messenger bags, actually I’m kind of a bag nerd, I won’t tell you how many I’ve bought looking for “the 1”. However I digressed, the messenger bag is great for everyday use. My rule of thumb is no bulky external pockets but at least one quick access and 1 on the back so securing certain items externally is easier.
In both cases I prefer the slimmest bag that fits your needs but especially in the case of the messenger bag don’t get one too small or it looks like a man purse. So as slim as possible in front to back depth but at least wide enough to carry an iPad or what ever item is you biggest.
I haven’t seen a hard case briefcase in use by anyone but lawyers and generally only the huge rolling document type that is actually hard to call a briefcases but I think technically is.
If leather is not your thing check out BillyKirk. They’re a US manufacture and have a line that is inexpensive, built using a very high quality wax canvas and are made in NJ (I think). The quality is excellent. They have 2 main models, one super slim (my choice) and one a bit wider plus they have a good pretty colour selection. Your sponsors bags are very aggressively priced for all leather bags, it’s nice to see. Personally I’m a NO monogram on the bag kind of guy - I think it distracts from the clean lines you get in a briefcase, I just find it draws the eye a bit too much like logos on shirts.
Final thought, rather than a ton of internal storage I prefer a few pockets for stuff I access all the time and a padded and elevated laptop pocket, that’s it. For everything else I use a pouch with all kinds of segmentation in it. This way just by moving just the pouch and a few other items I can quickly change bags when I need too. You also won’t need to remember which pockets has or is for what.
Cheers,
Christopher
Thank you Christopher! Well said!
I take the train to work, so a messenger bag is ideal. I’ll take a back pack when it rains. If I drive into the office I’ll carry a briefcase. Most of my leather bags are from Infinity Firenze in Florence Italy. Or I use Billingham camera bags as messenger bags.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I switched from an attache case when I was at university after work. I switched to a brief case over time. I use the shoulder strap as it means I have both hands free & for handshakes - Pre Covid 19 of course. I have used this bag as an overnight work bag - slip in a spare shirt, socks, underwear & toiletries I am ready to go.
Yes! Absolutely universal usage!
Love my Mahi messenger bag. I debated getting a briefcase but eventually decided for the messenger bag to start with. Now that I have been using my bag for some time I am looking into the briefcase as an additional bag. My Mahi messenger has been used and abused and still looks great. The leather requires minimal upkeep to keep looking great. I think I’ll be using that code of yours shortly. Have a great day John!
Sounds good Bob! I love mine as well.
I have both a soft sided black leather briefcase and a canvas messenger bag that I bought a couple of years ago and which doubles as a carry on when going on vacation (vintage safari look). I also have an inexpensive backpack to use when hiking (don't care if it gets wet or dirty) - but definitely not for work. In addition many companies like their employees to use branded products so I have a material (doesn't feel like canvass) black padded computer/briefcase from work.
Thanks for commenting Karl!
I have a leather briefcase from Saddleback Leather that I use for short trips and daily carry but when flying I have a leather Back Pack that is much easier to throw over a shoulder and can hold everything I need for a mobile office.
Thanks for watching and commenting Tom!
Please keep in mind that quite a few of us have been zeroed out this year - and no longer have the funds to be considering $500 to $1,000 "fashion" items. Nowadays we tend towards more economical and practical items...
Understood Brian.
$500-$1000? You can get Mahi bags just under $200 with discount codes.
Both options are great. Thanks for the video
Glad you like them Johnra! Thanks for commenting!
Excellent video John! I prefer leather totes as an everyday carry, would be interesting to hear your take on them! -Han
Great suggestion!
Love the look of totes but The only issue with totes is the capacity - briefcases and messenger bags are meant to be functional and often mine are full of materials.
@@karlsenula9495 Understandable, it does get cluttered sometimes!
While stylistically, I would prefer to carry a briefcase by the handle, a hand injury prevents me from carrying anything too heavy which makes a messenger more practical. Also, I use a canvas to reduce the weight especially when I travel for work and walking long distances is sometimes necessary.
Thanks! Appreciate your comment!
My daily bag is a “Jack Georges brown leather shoulder bag. Paid under $100 looks great 👍
I've never liked carrying things in my pockets. For most of my adult life, I've carried a small bag to hold wallets, keys, phones (when they became small enough to carry with you); anything I thought I could use. Briefcases/early computer bags were too big, Camera bags didn't look right. Laptop bags were thin, but still too much bag.Then came the "man bag" (possible topic?). Right-sized for individual needs, stylish; just enough. I carry a NutSac satchel (yeah, I bought it for the name).
Haha! Love the name! Thanks Michael!
That black messenger bag looks fabulous! 👍💸💸💸
Stylistically, they look different but functionally the two bags appear to have little distinction.Both bags look great; I would have a hard time choosing between them.
Thanks David! They have slight differences, but yes, pretty similar in capacity.
Can u do anything of how to manage under eyebags n dark circle
More sleep, less pot 🤣
Thank you. 😊
You’re welcome Ron!
John, what distinguishes a messenger bag from a briefcase? Wish you had delineated that at the beginning of your video. I assume it's more than whether there is a flap overlay closure.
Yeah, that’s pretty much it. The top flap closure versus the zipper.
How small can a sling bag before it is a purse?
Just bought a high quality soft leather briefcase, switching from a messenger bag. Should have done it years ago, much more professional (in my opinion).
Hi John. I don't have a need for either of these bags as I don't carry any of these items but I will say both bags are nice. BTW any chance for a critique video of holiday wear this year? Something like from refined to ridiculous. Peace. :)
Great idea, but my content calendar is pretty full all the way through the end of December.
The old box briefcases are outdated. Atleast from a stylist point of view.
New modern hard briefcase with round corners are modern. There are some box briefcases like the discontinued Jack spade, but that's a modern briefcase that not only has style, but function.
Adapt the style and formality of your bag to your outfit - or rather to your shoes.
John, I REALLY enjoy your channel but I have to express some strong disagreement here. To me, nothing says "low-status flunky" like a messenger bag. Can I just point out that they call it a MESSANGER bag for a reason? A man who carries a briefcase these days is sending a subtle message saying "Other people carry things for me.". In fact, I still carry the leather, soft-sided Coach briefcase my wife gave me at the start of my career over 30 years ago. It looks like it's aged well because I keep it well-oiled and clean and have had it re-sewn. Result: it provides a terrific contrast to my clothes which are always fashionable, age-appropriate, and up-to-date, thanks to your excellent advice.
What orange watch is that? Me likes. Looks good with that band.
Thank you! It's a Timex California - amzn.to/3kTNvUl
@@40OverFashion cool watch 👍
Thanks for the link. That’s a reasonable deal. I’m going to get one. 👍👍 cheers.
I like the watch
Thank you! It's a Timex California amzn.to/3kTNvUl
I just turned 40 today so here we are 😂
Happy birthday!
Save time, 5:10 the rest is just an ad.
The reason why I use a messenger bag is because I used to be a messenger. I'm too accustomed to it now. No going back.
I really don’t see a major difference in ☝️ to another.. 🤔 I’m just kinda confused 🤷🏼♂️ now, is the interior compartments the difference? 🤦🏼♂️
Organization is a little different and the outer pocket on the messenger bag is different. Zipper closure vs. flap and buckle also. Some differences, but pretty close.
@@40OverFashion What quality luggage brand or leather goods do U recommend for travel & /or everyday use ? I have some Coach items but I’m thinking something more different without having to pay for the marketing that goes into some of those brands.. 👋🏻
A lot has to do with openings and carry options. Both have a shoulder strap (unusual on a regular briefcase), but the Mahi briefcase has long purse like handles that you don't need is using the shoulder strap. The briefcase zippers down the middle while the other has a flat on one side.
Indian leather? From cowhide? No way
Bummer. Wish the video is longer
You're concerned about a bag being too high up that it might look like a purse?
Who hurt you?
👍