Buy or pass? Flat Head Leather tote

[jeff8770]

So I've recently come across a used leather tote bag from The Flat Head for around $360 USD and I'd like like to hear some thoughts.

The only mention of this bag I found anywhere was from the link below, and that was for the women's version of this bag.
https://ithot123.blogspot.com/2016/02/the-flat-head-deerskin-x-horsehide.html

Seems to me that the black part is deer, and the brown/red parts are horse? Could be the other way around and I wouldn't know. But I've heard good things about the flat head and I doubt I'd find quality to be an issue.

The only major issue I can see are the large handles which personally seem a bit too catchy or even feminine especially as I don't intend to carry it by the handles often despite the intentions behind them.

I'm also not sure if wearing these with say t shirt and jeans would look good at all. It measures 15 inches across and i imagine the proportions would look quite off. Thanks for any advice!

 

[johng70]

The handles make the bag look too feminine IMO. A man's bag should have shorter (preferably single) or no handles. This looks too much like a purse.

 

[dieworkwear]

I'm not into the idea of that bag with just t-shirt and jeans.

Do you normally wear just a t-shirt with jeans, or do you have certain jackets that you rely on?

If you want a workwear styled leather bag, Vanson has suede totes for like $150.

canvas shoulder strap with brass swivel-clips

Vanson's fully detachable and interchangeable shoulder-strap made from 2 inch wide 100% natural heavy cotton webbing and brass swivel clips. Designed to use with their family of canvas and leather bags

www.vansonleathers.com

 

[jeff8770]

I'm just thinking of getting a leather bag that would fit a 14inch laptop and just a couple books/notepads. Nothing too fancy. I actually don't prefer totes both because i don't want to carry it with my hands and also because they'll look a bit weird on me as i'm a fairly messy/casual sort, I don't wear suits.

A messenger/crossbody type in black/dark brown would probably suit that need and not stand out too much while looking quite sleek at the same time. The weater here is just too hot for large coats/jackets except for a couple months a year

I'm somehow reminded of the reporter from the bourne ultimatum ... That's probably as fancy as i'd get

 

[dieworkwear]

I'm just thinking of getting a leather bag that would fit a 14inch laptop and just a couple books/notepads. Nothing too fancy. I actually don't prefer totes both because i don't want to carry it with my hands and also because they'll look a bit weird on me as i'm a fairly messy/casual sort, I don't wear suits.

A messenger/crossbody type in black/dark brown would probably suit that need and not stand out too much while looking quite sleek at the same time. The weater here is just too hot for large coats/jackets except for a couple months a year

I'm somehow reminded of the reporter from the bourne ultimatum ... That's probably as fancy as i'd get

That Flat Head doesn't come off as sleek to me.

Given how you dress, I would do a Filson 256. The style is a little generic, but I think it would suit how you dress better than that leather bag. It has a shoulder strap so you don't have to carry it with your hands.

Rugged Twill Original Briefcase

Our Original Briefcase embodies the philosophy that’s guided Filson for 125 years: manufacture uncompromising products using the best available materials and construction. Products that withstand the rigors of daily use for years on end, that are handed down rather than tossed out. Nearly three...

www.filson.com

 

[johng70]

I agree on Filson: quality and fits what you are looking for. They have multiple options depending on the style you want.

 

[jeff8770]

Yup thanks guys that was quite helpful. I agree on everything you said and yeah, as nice as that bag is, it just wouldn't for me. The filson bags seem quite nice and I'll probably pick one up when they're on discount next time round.
Would've preferred full leather because I quite like leather, but it would stick out a fair bit if i wore that with t shirt and jeans.