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I have always found the off the shoulder messenger bag to have a unique urban charm, and so, a few years ago now, I went on my own quest to find the perfect messenger bag.

I searched high and low to find the leather bag of my dreams, op shops, savers, department stores, boutiques, markets..!
It had to be big enough to carry a large laptop (which I later learnt is just not practical!) Uni books, pens, papers and any other odds and ends that I could think of.

I finally resorted to paying an arm and a leg to get one custom made at a local leather worker.
As much as I do love my current messenger I often find myself on the prowl for more, can never have too much of a good thing, right?

On a recent Etsy spree this is what I found..

Recycled portfolio bag

This generously sized hand made uses locally found recycled material, this appropriately named ‘portfolio bag’ looks to be the perfect size for carrying around large documents and the like.
The bag is available in black and white.

 

Branded Hobo Messenger

 

All of the grungy messenger bags by ArmandoJavierDesign are one of a kind and come with their own unique id number. Put together using series of buttery soft medium leather, gold chenille fabric and blue denim lining, this deliberately messy ‘hobo messenger’ are double and triple stitched for maximum durability.

 

 

Bent Walnut picnic Wine Tote

Going picnicking? Then why not grab a Picnic Wine Tote by tealandgold! Complete with vintage wool blanket This bag has been designed around the standard 750ml wine bottle,a couple stemless glasses and maybe some cheese, to suit all your adventures. The bag is also lined with the same wool blanket, very classy.

Mr. Mooney messenger

This unique messenger is made entirely using suit coat parts.

 

The Artist Satchel, The Novel Addition

The artist satchel is created by the very committed artisan quejimenez and made entirely by hand.
“Your bag is lovingly created for you when you order it. Each bag is available in any of the colors i offer, and can be imprinted with the quote of your choice (mines or yours)… ”

 

Bagley Executive Courier

The Bagley Executive features a more vintage, classical look, and made 100% from genuine leather.

 

Minimalist Natural Edge Oiled Brown Leather Bag

Made from oiled leather to create a natural and minimal tone.

Hand-stitched Light Brown Leather Cross Shoulder Bag

 

 

Hobo Mail Bag
Inspired by the hobo messenger bag though in a smaller version, the strap is made to suit the buyers height and is available in a range of different colours.

Klone – Flying Springbok – zambesi

Inspired by Urban Africa and made by local South African Monja

 

Old Fashioned Messenger Bag

 

AIRSHIP – Large Messenger

 

Upcycling Messenger Bag

 

From the German based people over at Peace4You.net (Check them out for a full range of upcycled gear) is another recycled bag, this time made from old leather jackets, whilst the strap is salvaged from a used German navy-kitbag.
All of the Upcycled messenger bags are unique and also come in an olive green.

 

 

Nude bookbag

This very cool, slouchy book bag is made from canvas and accented with a sand and olive trim. Big and deep enough to be able to carry a laptop, books, pens, papers, anything.

Brown Leather Flap Bag

Another bag that uses recycled leather and has a more irregular shape that of the classic messenger.

Hand-stitched Dark Brown Suede Leather Messenger

..and another irregular shaped messenger created using brown suede leather, this bag is designed to be worn the entire length of your back and is described as ‘casual but smart’

Minimal Leather Satchel

 

Moss Green Satchel

 

Woody Laptop Messenger Bag

 

Briefcase in Russet Brown Genuine Leather

This multi-functional, unisex bag can be used as a traditional messenger bag and also as a briefcase (see images for examples)

 

Please feel free to leave comment with your favourite (and not so favourite)