Most of us regularly tote around briefcases, computer or messenger bags, rucksacks and even the odd updated map case. The bag, long a fixation of mine, is a staple in many guys’ lives. And bags seem to be everywhere – more so than in the past, really. We have more to carry around and and often want less of it in our pockets.
However, the simple task of transporting papers and a file or two in style can leave many of us at a loss. Whether a business meeting or the simple desire to pare down and try something with functional flair, that gray space between bag and manila folder is sometimes tricky.
To whit, I offer you the the leather document folio. Simple, elegant, clean and actually quite versatile.
Whether you’re jetting off to Paris or sitting down for a three o’clock staff meeting, your accessories should always be stylish and well thought out. While there are a variety of folio styles, the zippered style that opens up on three sides is a favorite of mine. It lays flat on a table and allows for quick access. I also like the classic larger under arm “college professor” folio.
True, folios have limited space and can never really compete with the functionality of a messenger bag or roomy elegance of a soft sided brief bag. You always have to hold it, or tuck it under your arm, and often there is no outside slash pocket for a paper or metro pass. But such limitations are to me a big part of their charm.
By necessity I am forced to shed most of the stuff I habitually carry around but never really use. It is simplification by requirement.
There are variety of other formats when it comes to leather folios, from a simple, single zippered pocket to the stylistic flair of an envelope style tuck-in flap. Some are wider, to accommodate a little more – maybe a thin laptop, iPad or book. The variety is endless, and that’s what makes them so interesting and useful. For example, my Jack Spade banker’s envelope is just one big pocket, while an older folio from Italy contains a beautifully crafted selection of sleeves and pockets.
What to carry? A wallet. A phone. A pad, a pen, some calling or business cards, and a few important documents should do the job.
Very nice. I go to meetings often with executives and in their hands are the standard “kevlar” black computer bag. Highly functional. Completely boring. I would like all of my company employees to carry something like this to executive meetings. A very nice differentiator. One question: Where does one find quality leather document folios?
Ed,
I got one recently as a present from Kiki James – http://www.kikijames.com/
and would highly recommend it.
I also have been looking for a piece like this for a while. I want one to match my havana bridle leather Swaine Adeney briefcase. SAB has the Eton, but I don’t care for the magnetic snap closures. Ghurka offered the document pouch in the past, but I no longer see the pouches on their website.
that dunhill leather folio is minimalistic in design but absolutely gorgeous! i’ve been googling all over trying to find an online shop to no avail. could someone please point me in the right direction? thx in advance.
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I sure wish I could find out where I can buy this folio. I have searched but can’t find it.