Leather Satchel Vs Messenger Bag: Formal or Casual?

Origin ofLeather Satchel

The leather satchel has been around for centuries as a means of carrying stuff – it even crops up in Roman times under the name of Loculus which literally means ‘little place’ in Latin. Used by Roman Legionaries, these satchels would probably have been used carry rations and personal belongings.

However, for carrying stuff is one thing, but the leather satchel only really came into the fashion limelight in the 17th century when it became a popular fashion accessory for the first time. The satchel has long been associated with scholarly pursuits, its shape specifically adapted for the carrying of books, a much more precious commodity in the past than they are today. Scottish monks, around 300AD used satchels to carry their handwritten bibles and Shakespeare speaks of: ‘the whining schoolboy with his satchel, creeping unwillingly to school.

Difference Between Leather Satchel and Messenger Bag

Three key features of messenger bag

• Cross-Body Strap

Messenger bags have a cross-body strap and are designed to be worn against the lower back, can then be easily pulled to the side or front to access the contents. This makes them ideal bag for walk or riding  a bike. hug the back, hanging diagonally from shoulder to hip, thus allowing complete freedom of movement.

• Body Scale and Materials

Messenger bags are usually wider than they are tall. Satchels are made from leather, softer and thinner than that of a briefcase to allow the satchel to adjust to the form of the body. Traditionally, Messenger bags are made from a waterproof material and lightweight such as waxed canvas.

• Closure

Messenger bags designed for delivering important documents; so, messenger bag will have a means of closing securely in order to protect its contents. Buckles, clasps, and zippers are commonly used and can easily add as much style to a messenger bag as function.

• Style and Function

Both of this type of bag are used by men and women, and messenger bag seems to be casually substituted for briefcase in nowadays and common to use the bag in a more formal setting like a business meeting. The satchel has a slightly more quirky and nostalgic image, often accentuated in contemporary designs by the use of brightly coloured leather.