I dunno. If I had a "real" job in say NYC/Tokyo/London I probably would not be using a backpack from home to office. If I were mark zuckerberging I suppose I would use what ever I wanted.
Something to consider with a laptop in a messenger bag is that you want to minimize the shock the laptop takes as you're walking. Either tighten the straps to keep the bag above the waist or carry it over the shoulder to the side like a purse. You don't want your expensive electronic to absorb bump after bump and shorten its lifespan.
i have a dark brown one i got in mexico circa 1998, still holds up, and always gets compliments which leads to bad small talk. A plaid one and a black one. whatever choice you make, always wear it across the shoulders not over one, no matter how cool honeybear tells you it is.
http://www.saddlebackleather.com/business/briefcases Saddleback leather in SA makes some high quality bags.
The thing about these messenger bags/satchels is that over time it can ruin your posture as your body compensates for uneven weight on one side. I switched to a backpack because of it. /techie nerd dbag bagger
Ordered one of these, have heard nothing but great things. My brother has one. It's practical but doesn't look like it's made for practicality. Plus it's made in America so no need to worry about your money leaving the economy or the bag being made by abused children/workers. http://www.timbuk2.com/
Back back if I'm going to the office. Computer bag if I'm seeing a client. Not sure why you'd want a purse.
My employer gave me a bag and a backpack to carry my stuff when I was hired 4 years ago. I just use the backpack. Easier.
I get it, men that can pull off stylish stuff make you uncomfortable and insecure. Get back to your Monster Energy Drinks and your World of Warcraft raids, the grown ups have work to do. Going back to OP's original post, did end up buying that Billykirk bag. Saw one similar at Polo Ralph Lauren but that thing was 2500 (!). Seems perfect for laptop, book, pen and legal docs.
You need a bag if you're not a boring person who stays home all the time and just makes quick trips out. If you want to just hang out, walk around and not plan your day like a slave master then there's some stuff you need to have with you. Like tampons lol jk Seriously, when I leave the house I don't know where I'll go for or after work and I usually don't come home till it's time to sleep. I need my charger, laptop a pair of headphones, a notebook, usb stick and pens. Since I have a bag it also helps to drop my keys and wallet and smartphone in there especially so that I'm not constantly aware I have a smartphone on me.
I've had a Coach brief a family member got me a few years ago. I'm pretty sure it came from the outlet store. It's very functional and has held up. Fits a couple books, laptop, etc. It essentially is a computer bag for me. I generally don't use the strap, but would definitely look for another bag with a removable one. In my experience, only old dudes still use hard shell briefcases.
