Messenger Bag

From a distance, Prada's edgy Grommet Messenger Bag seems like just the accessory for a rich, angsty teen, but viewed from upclose, that edge is a bit softer. The body is made of black nylon with a chocolate brown leather trim on the top flap, shoulder strap and buckles. On the front of the bag, partially concealed by the flap closure, are two gathered pockets for easy storage. The hardware is all silver and there are several leather tassel accents. The bag measures 8 4/5"H x 12"W x 4 4/5"D. Price: $1,570.

Rarely would I say that a men's bag is sexy. More often than not, the bags are simply functional and the better-looking ones usually have a sleekness to them that makes them pleasing to the eye. Dior's Silver Messenger Bag, however, is sexy and bold. The bag is made of silver-coated canvas with a natural leather trim that should take on a coppery, aged look as the bag is used. The hardware is all brushed palladium. The front flap has touch-tape closures and, inside, there is houndstooth lining and pockets for pens, mobile phones or other gadgets. The shoulder strap is completely adjustable and the whole bag measures 15" x 9.5" x 3.25". Price: $720.

With a distressed, slightly fraying edge, the Canvas Messenger Bag from Juicy Couture is meant to look like it is well-worn and much-used, although it is surely not meant to invoke the idea that it was used to carry books back and fourth between classes, despite the fact that the bag is likely to be used to that very purpose. Distressing a bag by carrying too many school books just doesn't seem to fit with Juicy's intended image. The messenger bag is made of green cotton canvas and has golden hardware accents. The leather shoulder strap is detachable and, to give the bag a bit of a vintage touch, the top flap ties with a thin cord instead of a snap. Price: $295.

Men don't usually carry handbags, but a messenger bag can offer all the benefits of a purse while sparing the carrier some raised eyebrows. The Hugo Boss Porthole Messenger is a sleek leather bag with a canvas trim and aged brass hardware. It measures 15.5" x 12" x 4", so it is large enough to fit books, folders and even a small laptop, though the fabric-lined bag isn't padded enough for it to replace a real laptop case. It has a front flap, which secures with two buckles and conceals a small front pocket. The wide canvas and shoulder strap is easy on the shoulders and adjustable in length, so the bag can be carried under one arm or worn across the body. Price: $450.

As though to prove that fun bags aren't just for women, Paul Smith has released this bright, funky men's Mini Car Messenger Bag. The bag is made of canvas with leather trim and features a photo screen print of a multi-striped Mini Cooper in front of a lively casino. Bright colors aren't limited to the exterior of the bag, either. The lining of the messenger is a rich purple cotton canvas. It has one slot and one zip pocket to organize all your things the next time you are making a trip out to Las Vegas or down to Atlantic City for the day. It measures a roomy 19 x 12 x 4.75-inches. Price: $400.