When it was time to update my daily laptop and business bag, I went online and looked at hundreds of options. As a published author in my 40s, I don't want to look like a college student who just rolled out of bed, nor a banker or lawyer rushing to a board meeting. I might be interviewing a Fortune 500 CEO in the morning and an entry level production worker after lunch. So I need a bag that is 1) professional and stylish to reflect my creative field 2) big enough to handle a 15" laptop, cord, tape recorder, a few books and some file folders, but not too bulky 3) not too heavy for lugging through airports and shoving under plane seats 4) durable for the long haul and 5) ideally between $150 and $250.I eventually eliminated all leather (too heavy), messenger bags (a little too casual for my taste), "overnighter" bags (too bulky) and all nylon (too "bike messenger"). This Aaron Irvin bag is the perfect blend of everything I wanted: 1) style: the combination of ribbed nylon and black leather at the corners is really sharp 2) function: it has all the right pockets in all the right places 3) durability: the nickel-plated Swiss zippers are SWEET with a nice little heft to the hardware.I saw nice bags at $300 and $400, but that just seems like too much. Likewise, I read a lot of reviews of cheaper bags ($60-$120) that ripped apart fairly quickly. At [$], I think this is a great value.The little style elements are subtle (blue stitching around the corners on the leather, a strip of blue leather trim, and this really cool black and gray checkerboard print on the inside), but just enough to set this bag apart from the hundreds I searched.BOTTOMLINE: If you demand function and unique style in equal measures, then this premium bag at just under $200 is for you."..." Read more
- A Published Author in Phoenix, AZ