2008 Briefcases

Once again, briefcases have become an essential element in work-wear fashion. While they connect you to your forebears who slugged mountains of paperwork home or secreted a sandwich to work, in today’s paperless world they serve a new function.

. In 2008, briefcases carry all the new stuff men need during the day, from the latest personal communication device (PCD) to airline confirmations, and from passports to that granola bar you picked up on the way to work. Some things, thankfully, like the need to travel with necessities and incidentals, never change.

Tod’s Computer Bag: Price tag: $1,200

This 2008 briefcase might set you back a few more dollars than the laptop you’re carrying in it, but, in the end, you’ll own this case long after you’ve bought a few computers to stuff inside. Tod’s is known for refined leather goods, and this case is no exception. Look close and you’ll see that the bottom of the case is studded with the same rubber nubs with which the company soles its driving shoes. This Italian-made briefcase’s side pocket will hold your cell phone or PCD and the adjustable two-tone strap keeps your hands free to carry and sip that double latte before you reach your desk.

Cole Haan Zip Top Briefcase: Price tag: $417

The first thing you’ll notice about this briefcase is the high stance of the handle straps. Then you’ll notice the sublime hardware, followed by the discreetly pebbled leather. The Cole Haan Zip Top Briefcase is one subdued number from this Chicago-based label. Best of all, the zip top means that there are no gussets and no flip locks. Once it’s closed, it stays that way. And the exterior zip pockets let you stash those boarding passes between security checkpoints without fumbling in your jacket while removing your shoes.

Kenneth Cole Big Business briefcase: Price tag: $195

The Kenneth Cole Big Business briefcase is a modern bag with a hint of Old World style. Few designs come close to mixing old and new in the way this cheeky little number from Kenneth Cole does. This is one of those 2008 briefcases that has just enough leather to make it in any boardroom, and enough nylon to let you mix it up with various dress codes and wardrobes -- not to mention making it one durable bag.

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