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How to Choose a Briefcase?

Like it or not, a briefcase sends a message about the person carrying it.  It says that you're casual, traditional, practical, or extravagant. Since your briefcase is something you'll hopefully carry for a long time, so you want to choose wisely.

Colors of Cases
Just like men's dress shoes, quality leather briefcases are offered predominately in two basic colors: brown or black.

While you don't need to match your briefcase to your outfit, if in general you favor brown-hued shoes, then a brown case will complement this clothing more fully. However, if your wardrobe most often contains the cooler traditional dress clothing colors - namely navy, charcoal, and black - then a black case is probably a better idea.

The Right Case for You
Smooth and polished leathers project a more sophisticated look than waxed or oiled leathers. Chunky brass hardware seems more rugged than highly polished silver tone. 

Ask yourself what kind of clothing you wear to work. If you're always in a suit, go for something more refined. If your workplace is more of a business casual environment, go for something that's a bit more laidback.

Think About Storage
All that having been said, it's also important to think about such practical features as the storage, weight, and size of the case. Consider what you're likely to carry in the case, including your laptop computer. You don't want to lug around a briefcase that's too big, but you also don't want to struggle to fit your belongings in it, or carry a separate laptop case. 

The ideal briefcase should match your personal style and carry all of your essential items easily, in an ergonomic way.

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