Travelling in style is a breeze when you have the right cases and luggage to carry around. Ong Chin Huat rounds up the latest bags on offer and selects his favourites for the fall-winter season.
With the plethora of electronic gadgetry a man has to contend with in this day of hyper connectivity, a bag to carry them all must be the most important business accessory in a gentleman’s wardrobe. Getting organised and looking streamlined in the process is only half the battle when it comes to winning that contract or securing that all-important client. Choosing a shoulder-slung messenger bag, a carry-all tote or a sleek briefcase large enough for your laptop and iPad isn’t that hard an option considering the variety that’s out there on offer. Just have a good think about your needs, what your requirements are and your preferences when it comes to bags and then search for one that closely ticks off all your needs on your list.
For Fall 2015, designers have taken note of this essential in a man’s wardrobe and made it a staple in their collections. From Louis Vuitton to Bally, there was a strong showing of bags together with woollen overcoats and leather bomber-style jackets. Work in a creative industry like advertising? Then go for a leather backpack, it’s not just college students carrying one as designers realise this classic gear is for all ages. Running to the gym after work? Then stuff all your workout paraphernalia in a duffle. As long as it’s luxe and smart, you’ll never have to worry about making a wrong impression.
1. Messenger or Reporter bags
Need free-hands to pass through immigration? Then opt for a Messenger or sometimes called Reporter bag as you can sling it over your shoulder thus freeing your hands to other things. Zippered and monogrammed with your own initials, the messenger bag is great when paired with a hooded peacoat. Louis Vuitton gave this bag a good showing in their Fall/Winter 2015 Men’s Collections and with the debut of its latest Ombré line, a collection of bags in three key styles in natural leather with a slightly aged patina. Available in brown and grey and embellished with Monogram canvas flourishes, looking smart is as easy as ABC….or in this case LV!
2. Backpack
Forget looking like a college kid. Backpacks are back in style this season and given the luxe treatment by designer brands such as Saint Laurent and Valentino. Versatile and practical, a backpack may look collegiate but in the hands of the style maestros they look professional and refined. Fendi even adds a dash of humour by appliqueing them green monster eyes or light-bulb moments. Need something light? Then you cannot do better than opting for Prada’s ubiquitous black nylon backpack. Want to up the luxe ante? Then choose Jimmy Choo’s Brown Croc-Embossed Fitzroy version. In any case, this classic bag will only give you street cred wherever you go.
3. The Tote
What is easier than a tote? Nothing really. Practical and sturdy, you can throw all your daily essentials into it and still look like you won an organisational championship. Think you look too corporate with a briefcase? Then choose a tote and it can accommodate your laptop, iPad, mobile phone, wallet and even your trainers. Burberry Prorsum has a black leather one in an interesting shape while Bally’s Ceinture Magellano comes in either smooth calf leather or bull skin with a flap secured with a robust silver-toned buckle.
4. Travel cases
Gliding through customs and immigration is a breeze when you take a well-designed and easy-to-manoeuvre bag which is made to withstand all the trials and tribulations associated with frequent travel. Travel bag specialists TUMI’s latest CFX Collection sets a new standard for frequent fliers and jet setters with their high-performance and innovative soft carbon fibre. With an 11-piece collection, rolling luggage and briefcases, there ought to be one which will withstand the wear and tear of airport usage. Loewe in association with the hip and hot British designer Jonathan Anderson has just announced its first travel collection featuring superior craftsmanship and well-thought-out designs. Its X-cross suitcase is sleek and spare looking and will definitely elicit admiring glances while checking into the First Class counter. And of course Louis Vuitton, who has perfected the art of travel, has a huge selection of travel bags and accessories to suit all tastes and preferences. Whether it’s the classic Monogram Keepall Bandouliere or the Rolling Damier Zephyr, you can always count on this storied and well-loved Maison’s commitment to the finest quality craftsmanship to deliver you to your destination with flair and class.
If luxurious yet discreet is your mantra when it comes to travel bags and cases, then Bottega Veneta is the brand you are after. Their wheeled trolley bag is constructed with Bottega Veneta’s signature Intrecciato VN leather, which has been specifically developed for exceptional endurance and resistance to wear and tear. Distinctive and compact, the case features a practical external compartment, a wide internal zip pocket and a small flap pocket. The retractable handle is perfect for stacking coordinating carry-on bags available separately within the line, while two leather handles provide added comfort. Fully lined with soft cotton padding, the interior features functional double straps and suit cover to keep your clothing and other contents in order. Comes with a lock, key and leather pouch.
Ong Chin Huat https://www.luxuriousmagazine.com Having been the social editor of the Hong Kong edition of Tatler and as well as writing a twice-weekly column in Hong Kong’s leading English-language newspaper, the South China Morning Post, Chin has met and interviewed a variety of people including business tycoons, supermodels, movie stars, royalty and world-class athletes. He also considers himself privileged to have attended some of the most talked about events and parties around the world. Chin counts art, fashion, food, interior design, literature, painting and travel among his passions.