In the Bag

Thanks to recent technological advancements, many laptops can now fit neatly inside a manila envelope. But just because you can tote a computer around in an inter-office packet doesn’t mean you should. Putting aside purely aesthetic arguments (the first being that it’s near impossible to match your shoes to a manila envelope), there are several practical reasons to invest in a dedicated laptop bag: protection from shocks and spills, adjustable shoulder straps, compartments for peripherals and the like. Below, a selection of the latest styles around. – Steven Schelling

1. The vintage aesthetic of the Roots Equestrian Bag (12 o’clock, at left) harks back to a time when computers were quills and mail had no e. Perfect for closet Luddites and those with poetic souls. $468, Roots, roots.com 2. Gap’s aptly named Laptop Bag (2 o’clock) is the perfect convergence of form, function and frugality. $54.50, Gap, gap.com 3. Jokingly referred to as “entry-level Hermès,” the canvas with leather accents Besace Bonaventura (5 o’clock) costs more than most laptops on the market. Balkers should keep in mind, however, that the French luxury retailer’s tradition of maroquinerie (leather work) makes this the ultimate upgrade package. $2,175, Hermès, hermes​.com 4. Banana Republic’s brown Buckle Bag (7 o’clock) is the epitome of the label’s fusion of business basic with Hamptons casual. The slick, fine-grain leather can pass muster in any boardroom, and its sporty good looks won’t seem out of place at the cottage. $310, Banana Republic, bananarepublic.com 5. This sleek and sexy textured leather portfolio-style bag (10 o’clock) could only be Prada. Caveat emptor: you might find yourself more attached to the bag than the laptop inside. $1,360, Holt Renfrew, holtrenfrew​.com 6. Husband to famous bijou purse designer Kate, Jack Spade has made his name with a line of all-purpose murses (man purses). With its Hebridean tweed shell, Edwardian-style leather detailing and futuristic hardware, The Mackintosh Turnpike (centre) deftly combines all this season’s runway trends in one perfectly delightful yet practical package. $599, Designhouse, designhouse​.ca