ThingsAmongMany

Over a year ago, I posted that I was on the hunt for the perfect “man bag”. Something a little smaller, and a little more grown up than my trusty Timbuk messenger bag. As is normal for me when I don’t find anything that knocks my socks off, I went on using my Timbuk.

In the meantime, I’ve also become a huge fan of the fantastic craftsmanship behind the work of the brothers Bray (the dynamic duo behind Billykirk which I’ve written up a couple of times now). In fact, having amassed a small collection (a cuff, a belt, and my favorite travel bag of all time), I’ve been meaning to get another order over to Chris lately for one of these (or maybe this one?).

But I digress back to the issue of bags. I stumbled onto the No. 214 Waxed Laptop Satchel (see more photos at the link) this morning, designed by Billykirk for Opening Ceremony. As far as bags go, I think I might be in love. The design is an awesome mix of utility and gorgeous design, and I can only imagine how it would look after a few years of use and break-in. Unfortunately I might have to wait a little longer on it based on the price, but at least I know what I’m saving for now!

The Billykirk boys have been churning out a series of awesome partnerships lately. They made a tote recently for Urban Outfitters, they’ve made some awesome hats (not sure if this was in partnership with anyone), some other bags for Opening Ceremony, and even a footwear collaboration with Sebago.

Only time will tell what’s next up their sleeves. Or maybe I’ll try to catch up with Chris to find out directly from the man himself…

Yup, that’s right. The question that’s ever-present for every woman has invaded the world of men.

I’ve been on the lookout for a bit more “grown-up” bag for quite a while now. My Timbuk is great for beach days and the like, but it’s been feeling a little…young…for the NY streets lately. Not to mention cavernous (it was purchased to tote my now long-defunct 15″ powerbook).

Of course, if I’m gonna drop the money on a killer bag, I definitely want something that’ll stand out and stand up. The Carga bag caught my eye on a recent perusal of Refinery29, one of my favorite fashion stops on the web. Made by LA-based All Purpose, the Carga is an interesting mix of felt and leather with some substantial metal detailing to boot. Maybe its because the design world is on a bit of a felt kick lately, but there’s something about the slight awkwardness of this bag that I find appealing.

Another favorite that’s been on my list for a while now is the Satchel Bag (in landscape, please) from Tanner. I love the simplicity and the detailing on this one; they’ve clearly put a lot of thought into the design. Just check out the removable interior pockets. I also have a belt from Tanner that I love, so supporting these guys feels better to me than heading to the dept. store for something similar.

How bout the readers? Can anyone point me toward something else I should consider?

I’ve traveled (and, occasionally, lived) out of the same two duffel bags for quite a few years now - I think its been about 12-15 years since I actually went out and bought a piece of anything resembling luggage. Given the years spent wandering the outdoors, my trusty go-to pieces have consisted of a small Patagonia duffel bag and a large North Face duffel (purchased well before the Vanity Fair take-over destroyed the brand). These days, however, I’m finding that my tastes (and age) are maturing a little (my wallet falls under a different discussion). When I stumbled onto the Cotton-linen Artisan’s Duffel, from J. Crew of all places, I was instantly drawn in. I love the vintage simplicity, and I can just about see the nicely worn-in look that it would have after a few years of being tossed in the backseat or the overhead rail of the train. Is there some sort of odd connection between getting older and liking things that hearken back to simpler times? Am I finally outgrowing the tech-fabric craze that kept me employed through high school? Scary thought.