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Briefcase Styling Guide for Men by Occasion, Season, Body-Shape

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Whether made of sumptuous leather or innovative materials, the contemporary briefcase is essential to modern gentlemen, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity with unparalleled élan.

This comprehensive article teaches you how to choose and style a briefcase based on occasion, season, and even your body type.

Men’s Briefcase – A Short History

The term ‘briefcase’ is a relatively modern appellation. In its early stages, this utilitarian object bore various monikers, including ‘receptacle’, ‘box’, and ‘reliquary’.

The Romans, pioneers in many respects, christened the early incarnation of the briefcase between 100-300 CE as ‘Loculos’ as a device to protect and transport important documents.

Roman Loculos mens briefcase history
Loculus (satchel) hung from the canopy of a boat. – Image courtesy: Erik de Wagt

Modern briefcases emerged in the late 1850s, an era marked by a shift in men’s attire, with the rise of business suits and emphasis on portable, functional accessories for the growing class of urban professionals.

The 1850s saw rapid industrialisation and urbanisation, leading to a growing middle class of office workers and businessmen.

This new demographic required a practical yet stylish means of transporting documents and personal effects, catalysing the development of the briefcase.

Initially conceived as a simple hinged iron frame on top of a basic carpet bag, the briefcase swiftly evolved to meet its users’ sophisticated needs.

As the industrial revolution gathered pace, the briefcase underwent a metamorphosis with more refined designs and materials.

History of briefcase after industrial revolution
Men’s briefcase after the Industrial Revolution

Leather became the material of choice, offering durability, flexibility, and luxury and the briefcase’s structure became complex, with multiple compartments for various business necessities.

By the turn of the 20th century, the briefcase symbolised professional status and sophistication, no longer a functional object but a statement that reflected the owner’s fashion and social status.

History of briefcase men professional status modern times
On the left, the Italian businessman and philanthropist, Lapo Elkann holding an exotic leather briefcase by Gucci; on the right, Senator Edward Kennedy arriving at London Heathrow Airport, holding a brown leather attache case.

The briefcase’s evolution mirrored the changing nature of work, designed to accommodate innovative technologies and businesses.

Nowadays, the briefcase is a testament to classic design’s enduring appeal, seamlessly blending form and function.

Briefcase Anatomy – Choosing The Perfect Structure

Understanding the anatomy of a superior briefcase is paramount for the discerning gentleman.

A well-crafted briefcase comprises several essential elements, each contributing to its functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

The exterior of a premium briefcase is typically fashioned from full-grain leather, renowned for its robustness and capacity to develop a rich patina over time.

The outer shell protects the contents and serves as a canvas for showcasing exquisite craftsmanship through precise stitching and refined hardware.

Le Tanneur premium full-grain leather exterior
Premium full-grain leather exterior – Image courtesy: Le Tanneur

Internally, a meticulously designed briefcase features a series of compartments and pockets. The main compartment, often padded, provides secure storage for laptops or important documents.

Supplementary pockets of varying sizes accommodate smaller items such as mobile phones, pens, and business cards, ensuring effortless organisation.

The handle, a crucial component, is reinforced to withstand the rigours of daily use. In many high-end models, the handle is hand-stitched and ergonomically designed for comfort during prolonged carrying.

Closures play a vital role in both security and aesthetics. Traditional brass or nickel-plated locks offer a classic touch, while modern designs might incorporate discreet magnetic closures for swift access.

Below is a comprehensive table detailing the essential components of a quality briefcase:

Component Description Importance
Exterior Material Full-grain leather or high-quality synthetic Durability, appearance, tactile quality
Main Compartment Padded, spacious Protection of contents, storage capacity
Secondary Pockets Various sizes, easily accessible Organisation, quick access to essentials
Handle Reinforced, ergonomically designed Comfort, durability
Closure Mechanism Secure, aesthetically pleasing Security, ease of access, visual appeal
Hardware High-quality metal, corrosion-resistant Longevity, aesthetic enhancement
Lining Durable fabric in a contrasting colour Interior protection, ease of content location
Feet Metal, positioned at base corners Protection when the briefcase is set down

How to Choose Your Briefcase

The ideal briefcase is both a functional tool and a statement, so choose one that complements your business environment and personal fashion style.

Style

Choose a style that complements your professional wardrobe. Classic attaché cases suit formal environments, while messenger-style briefcases offer a more relaxed look.

Briefcase styles
Briefcase styles
Briefcase Style Description Appropriate Settings
Attaché Case Hard-sided, rectangular case with a handle Formal business meetings, courtrooms, executive settings
Classic Leather Briefcase Soft-sided leather case with multiple compartments Corporate offices, business meetings, professional conferences
Messenger Briefcase Soft-sided case with a long strap for cross-body wear Creative industries, casual office environments, business travel
Laptop Briefcase Padded case designed specifically for laptop protection Tech companies, freelance work, academic settings
Slim Briefcase Thin profile case for minimal essentials Modern offices, creative meetings, urban commutes

Material

Full-grain leather is the premium choice, offering durability and a luxurious appearance.

High-quality canvas or nylon provide lightweight alternatives for a more modern or casual look.

Briefcase Materials

Size

The briefcase should accommodate daily essentials without appearing bulky.

Most professionals prefer the standard 16-inch width; however, if you carry a laptop, you might want to choose an 18-inch model.

Briefcase-sizes

14-inch briefcases are For those seeking a contemporary blend of style and functionality; ideal for the modern professional.

Compartments

Internal organisation proves crucial, so look for a briefcase with dedicated spaces for laptops, documents, chargers, and smaller items like pens and business cards.

Briefcase compartments
Briefcase compartments – Image courtest: Le Tanneur

Hardware

Quality hardware enhances durability and adds to aesthetic appeal. Brass or nickel-plated fittings offer a classic look, while matte black hardware presents a more contemporary style.

Briefcase hardware
Briefcase Hardware – Image courtest: Le Tanneur

Closure

The closure mechanism affects both security and ease of access. Traditional locks provide a classic touch, while zippers or magnetic clasps offer quick access.

Briefcase closure types
Briefcase closure types

Comfort

Consider the handle and strap design. A padded handle and a detachable shoulder strap increase carrying comfort, especially for commuters.

Choosing the Perfect Briefcase Colour

The briefcase colour complements your outfit and projects the desired professional image, so always consider the following factors:

Business Type – Different industries have varying expectations for professional attire, including accessories.

Personal Style – While adhering to professional norms, choose a colour that resonates with your fashion and aesthetic taste.

Maintenance – Lighter colours may show wear and dirt more easily than briefcases in darker hues.

Briefcase Colours and Style Association

Colour Characteristics Suitable Professions/Settings
Black Classic, formal, authoritative Law, Finance, Executive positions
Brown (Dark) Traditional, versatile, warm Academia, Publishing, General business
Tan Casual, approachable, modern Creative industries, Start-ups, Casual offices
Oxblood Sophisticated, unique, confident Fashion, Luxury goods, Creative directors
Navy Professional, understated, reliable Consulting, Marketing, Mid-level management
Unique/Extravagant Colours Bold, expressive, innovative Tech startups, Design firms, Media companies, Artistic professions

Black
Black briefcases are the quintessential choice for formal business environments, pairing exceptionally well with black, grey, and navy suits.

Brown
Offers warmth and versatility. Dark brown briefcases complement earth-toned suits and add a touch of approachability to formal attire.

Tan
Provides a modern, casual look ideal for creative professionals or casual Friday attire. Tan also pairs well with navy and grey suits to create a smart-casual appearance.

Oxblood
Makes a bold statement while maintaining professionalism. This deep red hue adds sophistication to black, grey, and navy ensembles.

Navy
Navy briefcases offer a subtle alternative to black. They pair well with a wide range of suit colours and project reliability and professionalism.

Unique/Extravagant Colours
Colours such as emerald green, royal purple, or burnt orange showcase individuality and creativity. These unique colours work well in forward-thinking industries where personal expression is encouraged. Pair with neutral-toned suits to let the briefcase stand out as a statement accessory.

How to Style Your Briefcase

Mastering the art of briefcase styling elevates a gentleman’s overall appearance, seamlessly integrating this essential accessory with various outfits and occasions.

In this section, we’ll examine how to style your briefcase according to its type, occasion, season, and body type.

By Types

Briefcase Styling by Type
Outfit ideas by briefcase types

Different briefcase styles complement specific outfits and project varying levels of formality. For professionals seeking versatility, Le Tanneur‘s briefcases adapt well to various settings.

le tanneur Leather Briefcases men
Le Tanneur 15″ Briefcase in Cross Grain Leather – image courtesy: Le Tanneur

With its 15″ laptop pocket and adjustable strap, this briefcase is suitable for both formal business meetings and more casual work environments.

Briefcase Style Outfit Ideas
Attaché Case – Charcoal grey three-piece suit with black Oxford shoes
– Navy pinstripe suit with brown brogues
– Black tuxedo for evening formal events
Classic Leather Briefcase – Light grey suit with brown monk strap shoes
– Navy blazer, khaki trousers, and loafers
– Tweed jacket, wool trousers, and Chelsea boots
Messenger Briefcase – Dark jeans, button-down shirt, sports coat, and desert boots
– Chinos, polo shirt, and white sneakers
– Casual Friday ensemble: khakis, sweater over shirt, loafers
Laptop Briefcase – Business casual: navy chinos, light blue shirt, brown loafers
– Smart casual: grey trousers, turtleneck, suede jacket
– Casual tech: dark jeans, crew neck sweater, minimalist sneakers

By Occasion

Choosing your briefcase carefully is critical to creating a cohesive and stylish image according to the professional events you’ll attend.

Occasion Briefcase Style Outfit Suggestion
Board Meeting Attaché Case or Classic Leather Briefcase Charcoal grey or navy power suit, white shirt, silk tie, black Oxford shoes
Client Presentation Classic Leather Briefcase Light grey suit, pale blue shirt, patterned tie, brown brogues
Job Interview Slim Briefcase or Classic Leather Briefcase Navy suit, white shirt, conservative tie, black cap-toe Oxfords
Business Travel Laptop Briefcase or Messenger Briefcase Navy blazer, grey trousers, light blue shirt, no tie, brown loafers
Networking Event Slim Briefcase Tailored blazer, dress shirt, dark jeans, leather dress boots

By Season

Style your briefcase according to the season – focus on complementing your seasonal wardrobe.

Season Materials and Colours Styling Suggestions
Spring Light-coloured leather or canvas in tan, light brown, or navy Pair with lightweight wool suits in lighter shades of grey or blue
Summer Canvas or light leather in tan, cream, or light grey Complement with linen or cotton suits in beige, light blue, or seersucker
Autumn Rich leather tones like oxblood, dark brown, or forest green Match with tweed jackets, corduroy trousers, or earth-toned suits
Winter Dark leather in black, deep brown, or navy Pair with heavy wool suits, overcoats, and leather gloves

By Body Type

Briefcase Styling Body Shape
Styling briefcase based on body shape

Here’s how to choose a briefcase that complements your physique, enhances your overall appearance, and projects confidence in any setting.

Body Type Briefcase Proportions Styling Tips
Triangle (broader lower body) Wider briefcases with substantial structure Opt for briefcases that add visual width to the upper body
Inverted Triangle (broader upper body) Slimmer, more streamlined briefcases Choose styles that don’t add bulk to the upper body
Rectangle (balanced proportions) Most styles work well Experiment with various sizes and shapes to find your preference
Oval (fuller midsection) Structured, medium-sized briefcases Avoid oversized bags that may emphasise the midsection

Accessories for Briefcases

Selecting the right accessories for a briefcase enhances functionality and elevates the overall aesthetic.

Each accessory must serve a practical purpose and contribute to an overall image of organisation, preparedness, and sophistication.

When choosing briefcase matching accessories, consider the following aspects:

Material – Choose accessories crafted from materials that complement your briefcase. Leather accessories pair exceptionally well with leather briefcases, maintaining a cohesive look.

Colour Matching – Opt for accessories in colours that either match or tastefully contrast with your briefcase. Black accessories work well with most briefcase colours, while brown or tan items can add warmth to darker briefcases.

Functionality – Select accessories that serve a clear purpose in your daily routine. Avoid cluttering your briefcase with unnecessary items that may hinder efficiency.

Size – Ensure the accessories fit comfortably within your briefcase without causing bulging or overfilling. Sleek, compact designs are often preferable.

Personal Brand – Choose accessories that align with your personal style and professional brand. These items offer an opportunity to showcase your attention to detail and refined taste subtly.

Tech Integration – For those in tech-heavy industries, consider accessories that facilitate using and storing electronic devices, such as cable organisers or portable chargers.

Accessory Description Benefits
Leather Organiser A compact folder for business cards, notes, and small documents Keeps essential papers neat and easily accessible
Pen Case A sleek holder for writing instruments Protects pens from damage and adds a touch of sophistication
Tech Pouch A small bag for cables, chargers, and other electronic accessories Prevents tangling and keeps tech items organised
Laptop Sleeve A padded cover for laptops or tablets Provides extra protection for valuable devices
Document Wallet A slim case for important papers Keeps documents crisp and protected from creasing
Keychain A stylish holder for keys Ensures keys are easily located within the briefcase
Briefcase Strap An additional carrying option Allows for hands-free transport when needed

Conclusion

The briefcase is more than a mere accessory in the professional world; it embodies a gentleman’s attention to detail, organisational prowess, and commitment to excellence.

Through careful selection and thoughtful styling, a briefcase becomes an extension of one’s professional identity, communicating volumes about its bearer before a single word is spoken.

Key takeaways from this comprehensive guide include:

  • Historical Significance – The evolution of the briefcase mirrors the changing landscape of professional environments, adapting to meet the needs of each era while maintaining its core purpose.
  • Quality Construction – A superior briefcase boasts meticulous craftsmanship, utilising premium materials to ensure longevity and functionality.
  • Tailored Selection – Choosing the right briefcase involves considering personal style, professional setting, and practical requirements. The perfect briefcase seamlessly integrates into one’s daily routine.
  • Colour Psychology – The hue of a briefcase carries significant weight, with each colour conveying specific attributes and suiting particular professional contexts. From classic black to bold, unique shades, colour choice offers personal expression opportunities.
  • Versatile Styling – A well-chosen briefcase complements a wide array of professional attire, from formal suits to smart-casual ensembles. Mastering briefcase styling elevates one’s overall appearance across various occasions and seasons.
  • Accessorising Wisely – Thoughtfully selected accessories enhance a briefcase’s functionality and aesthetic appeal, contributing to a polished and efficient professional image.

In essence, the briefcase serves as a tangible representation of a gentleman’s professional journey.

It carries not just documents and devices but also ambitions, responsibilities, and the weight of professional relationships.

As such, the selection and use of a briefcase warrant careful consideration.

For the discerning professional, a briefcase is an investment in both form and function.

It is a daily companion in the pursuit of excellence, a silent negotiation partner, and a reliable custodian of ideas and information.

In an age of digital transformation, the briefcase remains a steadfast symbol of professionalism, adapting to new needs while maintaining its timeless appeal.

As you embark on your professional journey, let your briefcase be more than a mere container.

Allow it to reflect your aspirations, a testament to your taste, and a tool that propels you towards your goals.

In the grand theatre of business, where every detail matters, a well-chosen briefcase ensures you’re always prepared to take centre stage, poised for success in any professional scenario.

Styling Beyond with The VOU

Accessorising your outfit with a briefcase is just a small step towards dressing like a successful, confident gentleman.

To dress like a wealthy gentleman you must know your body shape/type and your seasonal colour palette, so you can match your fashion with your skin, eye, and hair colours.

True fashion mastery requires an understanding of what to shop and how to match relevant garments, footwear, and accessories to you, from classic, heritage fashion brands.

Last but not least you must know how to dress not only according to your body body shape and colour palette, but also according to the occasion, location, time of the day, and even your unique lifestyle!

And if you feel a bit overwhelmed, worry no more as we’re here to help you, step by step. First, take our free expert quiz to find your body shape.

1. Find Your Body Shape

Different garments flatter different physiques so discover your body shape now by taking our free body shape quiz for men.

Follow up with our next free quiz to find out your unique seasonal colour palette:

2. Find Your Seasonal Colors

Fashion comes in a wide range of colours, but not every hue will complement your natural colouring so find out your ideal colours with our free seasonal colour quiz for men.

Third, learn how to dress by occasion, location, season, and even time of the day.

Knowing how to choose and style garments from various heritage brands, and style them by occasion, season, location, and body shape is crucial.

From casual weekends to formal events, each occasion requires a unique approach to styling.

To save time, headaches, and even money, get in touch with The VOU’s expert stylists now.

3. Find Your Ideal Style

Take our comprehensive fashion style analysis for men, and let our expert stylists guide you in selecting and curating items of maximum impact in a wardrobe that communicates success and confidence.

Remember, owning luxury brands isn’t enough; to look stylish, confident, and successful you must know your body type, and colour palette and how to style according to the occasion, location, time of the day, and season.

With these tools and expert guidance, you’ll not just wear the brand—you’ll master it, creating a wardrobe that truly reflects a unique fashion taste and many achievements.

With over twenty years of front-row fashion and styling events, collabs with haute-couture houses, and a PhD in Luxury Fashion, Laurenti is an expert in crafting personalised looks that depict old-money sophistication.

With years of expertise in high-end fashion collabs and a PhD in Sustainable Fashion, Ru specialises in curating eco-luxe wardrobes for the modern gentleman seeking understated refinement.

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