Your new leather briefcase is going to become your daily go-to business bag, for every meeting, every commute, every time.
You need it to be smart and practical, helping you achieve what you want in the workplace.
In this post, we go over the best leather briefcases for 2023.
Top Picks
Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:
- Best Traditional Business Briefcase: No.1 Briefcase (click to view) - a classically-styled leather briefcase, ideal for formal business situations. Multiple compartments, including a dedicated laptop compartment.
- Best Minimalist Laptop Bag: Elegant Briefcase (click to view) - a smart and minimalistic style of laptop briefcase, with decorative handles and a detachable shoulder strap. Made from full grain leather.
- Best Professional Laptop Bag: City Laptop Bag (click to view) - a stylish laptop bag made from the highest quality full grain leather, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap.
- Best Slim Profile Briefcase: Exquisite Briefcase (click to view) - a narrow laptop briefcase with a unique design and slim profile handles. Made from full grain leather.
Best Leather Briefcases for Men in 2023
Here we go into the best leather briefcases for 2023 by type and style.
No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase
Best for making a bold statement in the boardroom with the sleek and sophisticated No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase.
No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Design | Spacious triple-gusset design suitable for a laptop up to 15.6 inches |
| Interior Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
| Zipper | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Security | Locking feature for unattended safety |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly practices |
| Engraving | Option to personalize with engravings |
| Shoulder Strap | Padded for extra comfort, adjustable and detachable |
| Personalized | Custom engraving options available for a unique touch |
| Usage | Ideal for professionals, travelers, and students; versatile for work, meetings, and travel |
Watch the No.1 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.1:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Classic and stylish design | |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use |
Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag
Best for impressing clients with a sleek and professional look - the Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag is the perfect accessory for business meetings.
Elegant Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Product | Elegant Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
| Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Elegant product video below:
Browse more images of the Elegant:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Slim and compact design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Elegant and professional appearance | |
| Fits most laptops up to 15.6 inches | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
City Leather Laptop Bag
Best for impressing clients at business meetings with its sleek leather design and spacious compartments for laptop and documents - Business City Leather Laptop Bag.
City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Color Options | Solid Brown, Elegant Black, Deep Red |
| Laptop Compatibility | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop |
| Inner Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
| Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
| Design | Professional and spacious design for work or travel essentials |
| Adjustable Strap | Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap |
| Inner Pockets | Stitched 100% cotton canvas lining |
| Compartments & Pockets | 1 large zipped main compartment divided by a zipped padded pocket |
| Personalized | Option to personalize with initials or a special message. |
Watch the City product video below:
Browse more images of the City:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space and compartments | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Easy to clean and maintain |
Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Briefcase
Best for impressing clients with a sleek, professional look while carrying your laptop and documents - the Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Bag.
Exquisite Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Product | Exquisite Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 29 cm (11 in) |
| Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
| Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Exquisite product video below:
Browse more images of the Exquisite:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Sleek and sophisticated appearance | Not completely waterproof |
| Slim design for easy portability | Limited storage space compared to larger bags |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
| Perfect for both casual and professional use | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Sufficient storage for laptop and essentials |
City Large Leather Laptop Bag
Best for the stylish professional who needs to carry a laptop and documents to business meetings in a sleek and sophisticated way.
City Large Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
| Product | City Large Laptop Bag |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 17 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 45 cm (18 in) |
| Height | 34 cm (13 in) |
| Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
| Weight | 1.6 kg (0.7 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the City Large product video below:
Browse more images of the City Large:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Fits most laptops up to 17 inches | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
Essential Modern Briefcase
Best for the modern professional who needs to carry their laptop and documents in style and comfort.
Essential Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Product | Essential Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 31 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
| Weight | 1.3 kg (0.6 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Essential product video below:
Browse more images of the Essential:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Modern and stylish design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Spacious and versatile | |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag
Best for the stylish professional on the go - the 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag exudes sophistication and functionality for work travel and daily commutes.
10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:
| Product | 10X Laptop Travel Bag |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Backpack Straps and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 31 cm (12 in) |
| Height | 42 cm (17 in) |
| Depth | 17 cm (7 in) |
| Weight | 2 kg (0.9 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the 10X product video below:
Browse more images of the 10X:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Fits most laptops up to 16 inches | |
| Designed for easy travel and convenience | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
No.2 Leather Messenger Briefcase
Best for the modern professional who wants to make a statement. The No. 2 Leather Messenger Briefcase exudes confidence and sophistication in any business setting.
No.2 Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Product | No.2 Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 11 cm (4 in) |
| Weight | 1.55 kg (0.7 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the No.2 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.2:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Stylish and professional design | |
| Suitable for both commuting and business use | |
| Adjustable shoulder strap for comfort |
No.3 Leather Messenger Briefcase
Best for the modern professional who wants to make a statement. The No. 3 Leather Messenger Briefcase exudes confidence and sophistication in any business setting.
No.3 Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Product | No.3 Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 13 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 38 cm (15 in) |
| Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 9 cm (4 in) |
| Weight | 1.5 kg (0.7 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the No.3 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.3:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and professional design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space for essentials | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Easy to clean and maintain | |
| Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
| Suitable for work, school, and travel |
Weekender Men's Leather Weekend Bag
Effortlessly stylish and spacious, the Weekender leather bag is perfect for business trips and weekend getaways.
Weekender Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Design | Spacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop |
| Interior | Durable cotton lining with compartments for organization |
| Zipper | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Compliance | Meets airline size standards for carry-on luggage |
| Craftsmanship | Handcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen |
| Additional Features | Adjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware |
| Personalized | Option for custom laser engraving |
| Use Cases | Travel, gym, sports, weekend getaways |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly practices |
Watch the Weekender product video below:
Browse more images of the Weekender:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space for essentials | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Easy to clean and maintain | |
| Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
| Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays |
Grand Leather Garment Bag
Best for impressing clients with a sleek, professional appearance while carrying suits and dress shirts - the Grand Leather Garment Bag.
| Material | Certified Italian Vegetable-Tanned Full-Grain Leather |
| Garment Duffel Bag | Carry your suit in style and without creases |
| Interior Lining | Durable Italian Cotton Lining |
| Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK Zipper |
| Carry-On Compliant | Meets airline size standards for carry-on luggage |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
| Capacity | Can fit 2-3 suits, shirts, shoes, accessories, and a laptop |
| Suit Carrier | Attached to the travel bag |
| Personalized | It can be personalized with a custom laser engraving |
Watch the Grand product video below:
Browse more images of the Grand:
Albert says:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and elegant design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space for clothes and accessories | |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Features hanger hooks for easy storage of garments | |
| Zippered compartments to keep clothes secure during transport |
Pros of a Leather for a Briefcase
You may be wondering if paying extra for a leather briefcase is worth it.
Here are some reasons to consider:
- Durability - leather is a durable material, that's resistant to tears and stretching, making it a good option as a day-to-day briefcase.
- Ages well - full grain leather ages nicely with "leather patina", which makes the bag unique and gives it a special rugged quality that people love. Compare this with a nylon bag which loses its colour and starts to look tatty over time.
- Professionalism - leather is associated with a professional setting, which will give you extra confidence in work situations. This is particularly important if you're a young professional.
Briefcases are sophisticated accessories that offer a lightweight and comfortable way to carry your essentials to work and keep everything organized in zippered pockets.
Leather handles are comfortable to carry, helping you hold the weight of your leather bag. Brass hardware adds a stylish finishing touch, and goes well with brass on a belt or dress shoes.
Hold all of your essential accessories like a wallet, umbrella, headphones, charger, laptop, business cards, notebooks, smartphone, tablet/iPad, and more.
Related:
- Best Laptop Bags
- Types of Men's Bags
- How to Organize your Briefcase
- History of the Briefcase
- Best Modern Briefcases
- Best Business Briefcases for Men
- Best Leather Messenger Bags for Men
- Best Briefcase For Lawyers
- Best Laptop Briefcase
- Best Travel Briefcase
- Best Designer Briefcase
Briefcases vs Other Business Bags
If you want to look the part of a professional, a briefcase is key.
When one conjures up an image of a professional businessman or businesswoman the image is one of a sharply dressed person in a business suit for ladies, and a suit and tie for men.
They do not have a backpack slung across their shoulders or a messenger bag laying low on their hip. No, they have a briefcase in their hand. For this reason, a briefcase makes a great gift for a graduate of a law school or business-related program.
A briefcase is not always the most practical way to carry your work-related items though. Because a briefcase is designed to be carried with a handle it can be more difficult to manage if you have a lot of stuff or if you need to carry your briefcase for an extended period of time. This means choosing one with a detachable shoulder strap is important.
If you are not concerned about looking formal or professional, sometimes a backpack or a messenger bag will make it much easier to get all of your necessary items to the office and home again.
Although briefcases are meant to be carried by the small handle on the top of the bag most briefcases now come equipped with a shoulder strap.
The shoulder strap is great for very short term use but people have found that overusing this feature can lead to damage to their attire. The strap rubs against the shoulder of your coat or shirt and causes wrinkling and sometimes even rips and tears.
If you like the look of a briefcase and plan to use one, remember that these bags are designed for short trips to and from your home and the office.
Trying to use this type of bag to hold all of your gym clothes, library books and water bottle will not work out too well.
If this is the situation for you consider a backpack or a duffel bag.
Color
There is no one color that's best for a briefcase, and in most cases it will depend on your personal choice or style.
Brown is by far the most popular briefcase colour, either solid brown or tan, so consider that when choosing your briefcase.
You may also want to match it with the color of your watch strap, shoes, and belt.
Learn why we DON'T think you should wear a backpack with a suit here.
Alternatives
If you don't want to carry a traditional briefcase to work, then some good alternatives are:
While these may not be as professional as a briefcase, they will offer a functionally similar bag.
Related:
- Travel Briefcases
- Custom Leather Briefcases
- Briefcase Backpacks
- Women's Leather Briefcases
- Best Work Backpacks
- Women's Leather Work Bags
- Men's Leather Work Bags
- How to Organise Your Work Bag
- Best Work Gym Bag
- Satchel Briefcases
- Slim Leather Briefcases
- Designer Briefcases
- Italian Leather Briefcases
- Locking Briefcases
- Best Modern Briefcases
- Best Briefcases for Men
- Women's Designer Briefcases
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best leather briefcases.
If you have any questions, leave them in the comments, or email Von Baer at info@vonbaer.com.
Browse related articles on travel here or our work pages here.
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