When a man decides he can't keep stuffing all that he needs to carry around with him in his pockets and must hunt down a man-bag, it is imperative that the chosen product exudes nonchalance. "This old thing? I just grabbed whatever came to hand" is what he needs to signal as he shrugs the bag over his shoulder and runs to catch a plane. But judicious thought should precede purchase; logos, in particular, should be approached with a finger on the trigger.
Bottega Veneta Intrecciato bag
"When your own initials are enough" is the motto of this quintessential Italian company, set up in 1966 to produce understated accessories relying on the best Italian craftsmanship and pared-down design for their impact. Result: luxury goods speaking clearly and calmly of their provenance. None of that Made-in-China, Labelled-in-Italy malarkey here. W34xH35xD2cm.
Available at Harvey Nichols, Mall of the Emirates and Bloomingdale's, Dubai Mall, or from www.mrporter.com for £1,120 (Dh6,410), plus p&p.
Dunhill leather messenger bag
This has the virtue of unassuming versatility. Comfortable to carry, with its padded shoulder strap, functionally designed, and good looking in an typically unflashy way, it exudes a less-is-more calm. Wearers could just as happily arrive at a business meeting abroad as at a foreign cafe or holiday villa. W34xH29xD8cm.
Available at Dunhill stores at Dubai Festival City and Dubai Mall or from www.mrporter.com for £515 (Dh2,947), plus p&p.
Belstaff canvas messenger bag
Like Bill Amberg's slightly more expensive leather bags, this is one of those items that is sold looking used and battered - making it the very essence of this-old-thing insouciance. (Pure joy, one imagines, for stockists, who don't have to worry about keeping such goods pristine.) Not for those over the age of 35, though - the wannabe-a-boy look is another potential man-bag pitfall. Made of canvas with leather straps; W26xH35xD6cm.
Available from www.mrporter.com for £144 (Dh830), plus p&p.
