<p>I like the one Sally suggested, but when in doubt I’d always go for the classic Coach leather. It is virtually impossible to mar it: it just gets better with age.</p>
<p>Some brands have already been mentioned that younger guys seem to like-Tumi, timbuk2. Levenger has a canvas one with leather trim that looks nice but probably not what you’re looking for. <a href=“http://www.levenger.com/Levenger-Metro-Messenger-Stocked-with-Tools-13080.aspx”>http://www.levenger.com/Levenger-Metro-Messenger-Stocked-with-Tools-13080.aspx</a><br>
I would stay away from anything too heavy or too feminine looking, personally. One brand that has not been mentioned is Barbour. When my older son started making good money, one of the first things he bought was a Barbour jacket. They have some leather bags, tartan lined,etc. <a href=“http://www.barbour.com”>http://www.barbour.com</a> Search “messenger bag.”</p>
<p>Consolation, I would pick Coach over most other brands for this too, if I wanted to spend that much. They have a great repair policy, too. The only thing (which others mentioned earlier) is that leather can be heavy and Coach leather tends to be very heavy because of its high quality.</p>
<p>I like Coach but I’m not sure most young guys would be all that into it. But I could be wrong.</p>
<p>You guys have provided great links and brands. Thanks! </p>
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<p>It can be appropriately dressed down for the occasion with flip flops as long as they are Teva’s or Reefs or the like…Really, we’re just not into all of that… :)) </p>
<p>Looks like you are closer to your target, Pizzagirl! Let us know what you end up buying! I promise I will not tell your son, and I think the other CCers can keep a secret as well. :)</p>
<p>I’ve been looking for something for my son, too. These are all great choices. The whole thread makes me miss my Dad - back when I was a kid, he was a professor and carried a bag similar to some of these - and we all called it his “man purse”. </p>