From the Mailbag: The in-between, sub $200 work-bag

Joseph Abboud Double Top Handle Brief – $168.00

UPDATE:  The J. Abboud case seen above is now going for $140 from the flash sale site Beyond The Rack.  Shipping can take awhile though, and it’s a flash sale site, so be familiar with their return policy.

I work at a think tank in DC where the dress code for men is anything from very basic business casual, all the way up to a suit and tie with cufflinks.  I tend to dress as if I have an important meeting that I’m going to (even if I don’t), but I do go more casual from time to time with either khakis or even jeans and a sport coat.  I’m looking for a decent bag that will go well with either one of these scenarios.  Something that doesn’t look too casual with a suit, and not too stuffy with jeans and a jacket.  For an added degree of difficulty, I probably can’t justify more than $200 for this investment currently.  Any ideas?

– Marshall
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Oof.  Marshall, Marshall, Marshall (bet he’s never heard that one before).  That’s a tough one.  Some sticky parameters for sure, but we’ll make a deal with you.  You stick to working at the think tank (good grief man, that’s a conversational trump card) and we, that includes you guys the readers, will try and find you a briefcase.

What you want is something that’s not too rigid, but not schlumpy either.  A pair of top grab handles is a must.  A pure messenger with only a shoulder strap is a no.  Leather accents will be a plus, but an all leather bag is going to be tough to find under $200.  The Abboud up top ^ is a little steep at $185, and the hardware is just so-so looking, but it fulfills the requirements.  What else fellas?  Leave your suggestions in the comments.  More options from this side of the website are as follows:
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Ernest Alexander Spencer Brief – $160.00 ($225)

Leans tactical.  Heavily.  The olive version on the left leans too casual, but as long as you keep the black one from getting overstuffed, it almost comes across as a soft sided, dark, Zero Halliburton.  Meaning:  If some suited up guy is walking down the street, with purpose, and he’s not smiling… I don’t think many will mess with him.  Who knows what’s in the bag.  Meaner and more urban looking than Filson’s original brief.  Try the code BETTERFIT10.  Seems that might take 10% off for a new customer, or maybe if you’re lucky, it’ll just take 10% off period.

 

Cole Haan Merced Ultra Slim – $198.00

Great if you’re the type who doesn’t like to carry much.  Holds a 14″ laptop, but at just 1″ deep, it won’t be holding much else.  Obviously, real sleek.  Leather.  Also comes in black.

 

Zara Classic Briefcase – $89.90

It’s a little sharp edged looking to work with jeans and a t-shirt, but jeans and a sportcoat?  Probably.  And the ultra-cheap it ain’t leather it’s PVC factor helps a little with that.  If it were some ultra luxurious, drool over piece of fine leather… then it’d overwhelm a more laid back outfit.  That won’t happen happen here.

 

Ernest Alexander Attache – $245.00

The Good news?  It’s made in the USA and looks incredible.  The Bad news?  It leans pretty casual and it’s $45 over the line.  Best to not go digging through the couch cushions if you favor a suit, this probably leans too casual.

 

ABChic Converting Strap Case – $135.00 ($167)

An odd one.  The straps actually slide along some bolt-looking things to go all streamlined when recessed.  F-14 Tomcat Variable Sweep style.  Part of the up to 30% off Yoox sale that’s going on right now.  Also available in a more streamlined, no side pocket style (which looks a little less like a purse.)

 

Jack Spade Cotton Pinsripe Brief – $175.00 ($395)

The best in show, by far.  After seeing Marshall’s requirements the mind immediately runs towards Jack Spade.  Cleaned up but not stuffy.  That’s what their brand specializes in.  A perfect briefcase for what he’s looking for… as long as he doesn’t have a closet full of pinstripe suits.  That might get a little weird.  A final sale item.  No returns.

Anything else for Marshall?  Leave it below.  More ideas for affordable briefcases can be found in this old post.