Few pieces in the male wardrobe slog harder than a work bag. We all need to get our lunch/laptop/stolen documents for Wikileaks to and from the office every day, so the right bag is the colleague you can actually rely on.

When it comes to selecting a style of bag for the 9-5, briefcases are functional, stylish, classic and, somehow, all too often overlooked.

Once attached to the hand of every businessman worth his pay packet, the hard-sided case fell out of favour with the turn of the millennium, as a result of a move towards more relaxed dress codes and the rise of business-casual dress.

Now, however, it’s been given the attention of brands ranging from the high street to the high-end, and the carrier is back, looking a world apart from the Chancellor’s Budget Box.

Thanks to a renewed approach to design and modern materials like supple leathers and waterproof canvas, it’s now possible to carry a briefcase without looking stiff.

History Of The Briefcase

The origins of this sophisticated receptacle can be traced back to the 14th century, when early versions made from cloth were used to transport money and valuables. But it wasn’t until the 1820s, when Parisian manufacturer Godillot produced a carpet bag with an iron frame, that the traditional briefcase would take shape.

This style was later adopted by lawyers, who used the structured box to cart important documents to and from court, giving the bag its name.

These days, the briefcase is an astute choice even for non-businessmen and lawyer folk. Capable of (safely) transporting laptops, tablets and other various essentials, start using one and you will likely become a convert.

What To Look For In A Briefcase

Before you rush out and drop this month’s rent on a new bag, it makes sense to swot up on what it is you should be looking for.