Due to its associations with office life and corporate culture, the briefcase feels like the very embodiment of modernity. Which makes it all the more surprising that its origins can be traced back to the Roman Empire, whose legionnaires carried their belongings in a rectangular leather satchel called a “loculus.” Over the centuries, this simple satchel took on the appearance and dimensions of the familiar briefcase of today and became linked to work life in 1860 when the British Prime Minister’s residence at 10 Downing Street began using red briefcases to transport official documents.
Briefcases today are more likely to hold laptops than papers but have adapted to modern life by including features like laptop sleeves and trolley loops. Follow along below for a survey of the worthiest briefcases on the market and make your daily commute just a little more stylish.
Ettinger Heritage St James Lid-Over Attaché Case
Image Credit: Ettinger Ettinger’s St James attaché case is a replica of a model used by its founder Gerry Ettinger in the 1930s. The as-traditional-as-it-gets piece includes three brass locks, a single internal component and comes with a matching leather card case.
Frank Clegg Bound Edge Zip-Top Briefcase
Image Credit: Frank Clegg Made in Fall River, Massachusetts, Frank Clegg’s zip-top briefcase splits the difference between rugged and refined. Its interior features three slip pockets and includes another two slip pockets on its exterior for extra storage.
Ghurka Examiner No. 5
Image Credit: Ghurka The Examiner No. 5 briefcase is one of Ghurka’s flagship designs. Available in either its signature tumbled leather or a heavy cotton twill, the American-made bag features two oversized exterior flap pockets and an an interior laptop sleeve within.
Bennett Winch Suede Brief
Image Credit: Bennett Winch With a compact and concise design, this Bennett Winch brief is made from a waterproof Italian suede and also boasts a leather storm hood. A leather panel on its reverse side allows it to be attached to rolling suitcases.
Arterton The Briefcase
Image Credit: Arterton Made from heavyweight British Millerian ranger cloth, Arterton’s briefcase includes two large bellows pockets and a hidden passthrough slot that allows a wet umbrella to be stored separately. It also boasts a suitcase handle slip for easy attachment to rolling bags.
Métier Closer Suede Briefcase
Image Credit: Métier At once a beautiful design object and a functional tool, Métier’s Closer briefcase is a succinct representation of the brand itself. Made in Italy from a rich suede, it features a 14” laptop compartment and a zippered exterior pocket that pulls double duty as a trolley loop.
Officine Creative Jules 007 Leather Briefcase
Image Credit: Officine Creative Officine Creative’s Jules briefcase is made in Italy from suede that’s been airbrushed for a greater depth of color. Among its features is a front zipped pocket that fits a phone and a detachable shoulder strap.
