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How do I Choose the Best Leather Bag?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

Leather bags of all types are often convenient as well as practical means of transporting necessary items with ease. For women, a leather bag may be in the form of a handbag or a clutch. Men may go with a leather shoulder bag that doubles as a computer satchel or portfolio case. Whatever type of leather bag you need, there are three factors you should keep in mind if you want to make the best selection.

The primary factor to keep in mind when selecting any type of bag is function. What do you need the leather bag to accomplish for you? You may simply need something to carry around small items such as makeup, credit cards, money, and a few other essentials. If that is the case, the some type of leather purse is likely to work just fine. On the other hand, if you need to take along books, a notebook computer or similar items, you may want to go with a leather tote, shoulder bag, or backpack. Defining the function will help you focus on the type of bag you need as well as provide some clues as to how large or small the bag should be.

A leather purse.
A leather purse.

Next, consider some of the features that you would like with the leather bag. Perhaps you need something that comes with handles as well as a shoulder strap. For organizational purposes, the inclusion of side pockets on the exterior as well as compartments on the interior may be helpful. Zippers may be more convenient for you than buttons, or you may find that magnetic strips are easier to manage when opening and closing compartments. If you plan on carrying equipment such as a laptop, you may also want at least one larger compartment with ample padding.

Bonded leather, which is sometimes used to make bags.
Bonded leather, which is sometimes used to make bags.

Style is another factor that is very important when selecting the perfect leather bag. For no-nonsense types, a bag with a simple design will be ideal. However, people who like to have a little fun with their accessories may be interested in a body composed of several different colors of dyed leather that are worked into some sort of decorative design. Fortunately, there are styles that vary from the ultra-businesslike to the esoteric, so you should have no problem finding a style that fits your personality.

Style is an important factor to consider when selecting a leather bag.
Style is an important factor to consider when selecting a leather bag.

Finally, price is always a consideration when it comes to purchasing a leather bag. The reality is that you will pay more than a modest price for any quality leather item. However, keep in mind that while the bag may cost more on the front end, it will last considerably longer than a cheaper bag. In the long run, the higher priced leather bag is likely to outlast two and possibly more of the less expensive options.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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    • A leather purse.
      By: Sam D'Cruz
      A leather purse.
    • Bonded leather, which is sometimes used to make bags.
      By: Jim Mills
      Bonded leather, which is sometimes used to make bags.
    • Style is an important factor to consider when selecting a leather bag.
      By: Malgorzata Kistryn
      Style is an important factor to consider when selecting a leather bag.