Although the popular image of the briefcase may be a bit staid and conventional, the briefcase itself remains as essential a part of any executive’s accoutrements as the latest model of BlackBerry or iPhone. And just as these indispensable digital appurtenances can be programmed and configured to meet the specific demands of their owners, the latest briefcases can express individual tastes. This season’s variations feature lustrous exotic skins, durable textured leathers, and sleek modern hardware. From the super-slim portfolio that holds the thinnest of laptops to the practical carryall with pockets sized for different high-tech devices, the briefcase has evolved to complement every work style.
Image 1. Ermenegildo Zegna Heritage Diplomat briefcase (top), $2,350, www.zegna.com; Hermès box calf briefcase, $6,150, www.hermes.com
Image 2. Stefano Ricci Chèvre leather briefcase with crocodile handle, price available upon request, www.stefanoricci.com
Image 3. Kiton calfskin briefcase, $4,090, www.kiton.it
Image 4. Louis Vuitton Robusto Taiga leather briefcase, $2,600, www.louisvuitton.com
Image 5. Tom Ford brown alligator document case, $11,900, www.tomford.com
Image 6. Salvatore Ferragamo triple-gusset leather briefcase, $1,950, www.ferragamo.com
Image 7. Bulgari olive-green ostrich business case, $6,650, www.bulgari.com
Image 8. Canali gray leather briefcase, $1,895, www.canali.it
Image 9. Brioni black leather briefcase with silver hardware, $4,350, www.brioni.com and also available at Bergdorf Goodman, www.bergdorfgoodman.com