Choosing the Perfect Briefcase

My Coach briefcase…still looking good after all these years.

Finding the perfect briefcase is like finding the perfect purse: it takes time, patience, and a good eye. If you’re anything like me, choosing the right bag is never easy; we all have different needs based upon our line of work. Whether it’s a briefcase or a bag, all the right design components must come together just how you like them in order for you to make that purchase. Briefcases are typically a needed (and not so inexpensive) accessory, so choosing one that suits you is important.

Briefcases are both a cost and lifestyle investment. When you purchase something that is going to be a daily part of your work life, you want it to be efficient, sturdy, and well-crafted. Designers make beautiful briefcases, but when it comes to functionality, you are the one who needs to make the right choice based upon your occupation, work load, and stylistic choices. Make sure the briefcase doesn’t just look pretty, but also serves to keep you organized and offers enough room that you can utilize it in the best way possible. You don’t want to purchase one that is too small, nor do you want to pick one that’s too large and cumbersome to carry from place to place and meeting to meeting.

My particular choice was made many years ago when my teaching load increased. I wanted a leather bag that served two primary functions: (1) that it allows me to carry all the papers I have to grade and assignments I have to hand out, and (2) that it is roomy enough to fit at least one textbook. Based on these two parameters, I chose the Coach bag above. As an added bonus, I can often carry two texts into my briefcase. Additionally, the leather wears well, and after many years of full service, it’s still in great shape.

I’ve pulled together different ranges and varieties of briefcases as inspiration for you and organized them from the most expensive to the least expensive.

Go find that perfect one that suits you, and let me know what you pick.