Bloomingdales has some nice Ralph Lauren bags on sale. This navy backpack has all sorts of cool detailing – tough leather bottom, drawcord opening, and straps with felted backs. If the model is the same as last year’s, the metal parts should also be oxidized so that they have a nice, green patina. Price has been dropped from $350 to $175. If you don’t like the little RL patch at the bottom, you can remove it with a seam ripper (there will be holes where the stitching used to be, but you’ll barely be able to see them).
They also have a canvas bag that’s inspired by Brady’s fishing bags. The canvas on these is a little less stiff that what you’d find on a Brady or Filson – which means the bag will droop a little more when used – but they also look a little less utilitarian, which I like for use in the city. Original price is again $350, but the price has been dropped to $210.
Nice bags for weekday and weekend use.