PHOTO COURTESY OF BALENCIAGA
For decades, the briefcase was a symbol of corporate conformity. The staid, boxy accessory was the uniform of the nine-to-five professional, almost always rendered in black or brown leather. It was a functional necessity, but rarely a statement of personal style. Yet, in the ever-shifting world of fashion, even the most traditional staples are subject to reinvention.
Today, a new wave of unexpected briefcases is emerging, breaking free from predictable constraints of the past. While embracing a spirit of fashionable subversion, they blur the line between workwear and personal expression. In fact, these four unexpected takes on the professional briefcase embodies this shift to perfection.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RESPECTIVE BRANDS
01 - Balenciaga Rodeo Portfolio Bag, SGD5890
A slouchy, unstructured form defines Balenciaga’s Rodeo. It evokes a sense of effortless cool, fitting right in line with the brand’s avant-garde aesthetic. Named for the iconic Beverly Hills street, it suggests a lifestyle more about curated glamour than boardroom meetings. From the fall-winter 2025 men’s collection, the 39 cm by 29 cm bag comes with an eye-catching cardholder charm and the option to carry it crossbody with a removable strap. BALENCIAGA
02 - Bottega Veneta Getaway Briefcase, SGD6410
Bottega Veneta introduces the Getaway Briefcase, another new product offering in its iconic Intrecciato woven leather. Measuring 39 cm by 28.5 cm, this handy carryall opens via a top zip closure to reveal two roomy compartments. One is perfectly sized for a laptop and documents within its padded interior, while the other holds daily essentials. It also comes with an exterior flat pocket and back belt for sliding easily around trolley handles. BOTTEGA VENETA
03 - Celine Document Holder, SGD3650
Celine’s Document Holder in Triomphe canvas is a masterclass in reinterpreting a heritage silhouette. The iconic monogram and shiny silver-tone Triomphe buckle not only gives the boxy bag an extra dose of personality. A contemporary alternative to heavy, all-leather briefcases of the past, it also makes a more versatile option for the modern professional. Plus, the coated material offers resistance to wear and tear, as well as the occasional splash. CELINE
04 - Goyard Ambassade MM Document Case, POA
Logo lovers can also look forward to Goyard’s iteration. With a name that recalls the world of diplomacy, Goyard’s Ambassade Document Case proves that tradition can certainly be reinvented. While its form is undeniably classic, the Goyardine canvas in colours like black, black/tan, green, grey and navy blue makes it appear less formal and more personal. Measuring 38.5 cm by 27.5 cm, the size is also ideal for business travels or short getaways. GOYARD
For more information, do visit the brands’ respective sites
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RESPECTIVE BRANDS
