In colors, business people should primarily choose dark, muted tones such as black, dark brown, or gray – preferably the same colors as for shoes and belts. “That makes for a harmonious look,” says Bauer. If you like it more playful, you can choose a patterned model. “The pattern should be reserved.”
Such is especially true when the pattern can be assigned to a specific brand. “The men’s business bag should convince through its quality, rather less through its brand,” says Bauer. The fashion specialist also advises against using exotic leathers such as crocodile for work. “The porters could use it to offend or provoke someone.”
So-called messenger or messenger bags are also popular with many men. Your advantage: They can be hung around the shoulder so that the wearer has both hands free. However, Bauer recommends that suit wearers refrain from doing so. “The strap running across the chest can destroy the suit look,” says Bauer. “In the worst case, he’ll warp everything: the jacket, the tie.”
If you still don’t want to do without the messenger bag, you should use a model with a handle to be carried in the hand when necessary. The strap should also be as thin as possible – this then dominates less the overall picture when hanging.
When it comes to design, it is all the more critical for messenger bags to be as restrained as possible, says Bauer: “It fits closely to the body and connects with the look.” And it shouldn’t disturb this if possible. “You don’t need any frills. It’s not a statement like a briefcase that looks like it is in your hand,” says Bauer.