On The Move

I'm currently in the process of moving (obviously that's why I'm blogging instead of packing) and the more I think about it the more I'm realizing how I need a great duffel bag in my arsenal.  Not only would it come in real handy as I transition into my new place, but for various trips and the like - it's not like you all can't figure out the myriad of uses for functional luggage on your own.  Anyhow, L.L. Bean is selling this killer Sea-Washed Canvas Duffle for $49 bucks.  That's right, forty-nine bucks - no typos.  At a price like that you're pretty much entering Army/Navy surplus territory, which is music to my ears.  Simply put, fantastic looking bags that happen to be as functional as they are cheap deserve a shout out.  If I was one of those bloggers who put together hypothetical kit composites odds are you'd find this joint in the ones dealing with my magical journeys around the world.  And we're off...

-L.A.S

Go Custom

Despite being just another one of those style blogger types I don't really get down with totes.  I've never been into them and, quite frankly, I prefer to stick to over the shoulder styles.  For those who rep the same set do yourself a favor and check out Timothy Adam Maynard who is currently selling made to order backpacks over the internet that just so happen to be insanely fly.  Prices range from $115 to $145 and you can pick out all the fabrics, colors, add on's and upgrades that you could ever imagine.  If you just so happen to be the real gnarly type he can even replicate your own design - maybe this will be the motivation you finally need to pull the trigger on that Illustrator/Photoshop class.

-L.A.S

Filson Passage Luggage

Filson, who are an American standard when it comes to all things rugged and handsome, have a new collection dubbed "Passage Luggage" for your everyday travel.  There are a bunch of sizes and styles (all available in black, brown and otter green) so if you are in the market for a new bag they have you covered no matter what you need.  The one knock against Filson are the semi-high prices, though this stuff is slightly cheaper than Filson's field bags, but then again this is the definition of stuff that will one day belong to your children.  Check out the entire line here and some favorites of mine below.  Interestingly enough, all this stuff is imported and is perfect for the "I prefer things other then canvas every once in a while" set.

-L.A.S

An Affordable Duffle

[Pictured: Tan Wm. J. Mills & Co. classic duck duffel.]

The new Ask Valet 24 hour guarantee is bombarding my blogroll, which is quickly becoming more hassel than it's worth, not to mention they blew my spot up on something that I had been saving for my holiday gift guide (coming soon). 

A duffel bag is something that every guy or gal should own for the simple fact that you can take one anywhere.  Whether traveling for the week, the weekend or just to work the duffel can be your go to.  Finding a cool and affordable one, however, is becoming increasingly difficult with the Selectism's and Acquire's of the world posting the newest and most expensive option daily.  The issue at hand is finding something classic looking, quality and reasonably priced.  While I have posted a few options here and there, none may be better than the Wm. J. Mills & Co. classic duck duffel.  With these guys we are talking American heritage (1880, Greenport, NY), duck canvas and a ton of color options to make it your own (the white straps make a great contrast).  The prices range from $100-$160 for various sizes, which when you do the math comes out to about 1/3 of other quality options you are going to see on the market.  Order one here for yourself or add it to your holiday wishlist.  You can bet your ass it's on mine.

-L.A.S

Stumbled Across: Token

Bags often get overlooked here at Sartorially Inclined, but every now and then we get a little inspired and throw up a post.  Dan, who runs Disaffected Prep, had another great post on Porter Street Bags the other day and I got to thinking and browsing.  During my internet travels I stumbled across the New York based brand Token whose simple and unadorned canvas, nylon and leather bags impressed the hell outta me.  If I were designing bags, these are surely how they would look (manly, leather accents, etc.).  Token's offerings are reasonably priced and have some great color options to add a little something-something, not to mention they come in a bunch of shapes and sizes for all your carrying needs.  Check out a description straight from the source and some of my favorite offerings all for under $250, available here.

"The story of Token is inextricably tied to Manhattan Portage, where the concept of designing practical urban luggage was first etched out as a philosophy in the 1980s. Manhattan Portage grew steadily by implementing sound production techniques, classic design and developing a loyal customer base that valued its small-business mindset. Using the same core values, fast forward to 2006, when Manhattan Portage released Token to the market as a well-considered effort to bring consumers a more directional brand with exclusive materials and premium flourishes. As the brand says: 'Our customers have grown, many of their needs have changed, how they work is different, the way they travel has changed and their lifestyles have matured.'"

"Token's pieces are a counter-point to ostentatious label carrying, and cater to professionals seeking practical, durable design, a refined but bold aesthetic and elegant workmanship."

Amen to that Token. Amen.

-L.A.S

Throw it in the Bag

Every guy needs a decent bag. We are not talking man-purses or anything of the sort, but a good bag for weekend trips and such. Any good piece of luggage can be quite expensive, which can be a buzzkill considering you may only use it a few times a year. Luckily Urban Outfitters has teamed up with leathermakers/accessory designer extraordinaires Billy Kirk for an affordable and cool looking bago callabo (sorry for the rhyme). From the looks of it the bag, called The Brothers Bray, seems to be just the right size. It's not going to be mistaken for your girlfriend's and is not too big that it can't be busted out during your everyday commute. Classic styling and materials (vinyl, leather, cotton lining) is the name of the game with everything these days, luggage included and Billy Kirk's pieces adhere to this mantra. All the pieces are classically influenced and built to last (these guys make all their stuff in Amish Country for god's sake). I need a weekender bag like this pretty baldy so I'm going to order one and do a review of it when it arrives. The bag is retailing for a reasonable $88 and available online so act fast (click to buy at urbanoutfitters.com). You don't want to be the guy in the airport admiring my luggage.

-L.A.S

[Edit: Apparently it's on backorder until 9/20/09 so take a number, get in line behind the sartorially inclined (including myself) and plan all trips accordingly]