Cool Hunting

This season, fall's fresh class of bags presents new versions of old favorites: duffels, totes and messengers. Whether fashioned in supple distressed leather or heavy-duty nylon, the best carryalls offer loads of wearable, functional options like adaptable straps, extra pockets, and nifty zippers in unexpected places. Light years beyond the briefcase, all these back-to-school bags score straight As for style.

Above left: Common Projects Leather Utility Bag, $580. For availability go to www.commonprojects.com.

Above right: Marsupium coated-canvas backpack, $380, by Salvor Projects, available at Odin, 199 Lafayette Street, New York City; 212-966-0026.

Above left: Billy Kirk canvas and leather Tool Bag, from $325, available at Hollander & Lexer, 358 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn; 718-797-9190.

Above center: JAS MB Medium Old School distressed leather messenger bag, about $450, available at Douglas Fir, 8311 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles; 323-651-5445 and at Blackbird, 2208 NW Market Street, Seattle; 206-706-4555.

Above right: Onla Executive Overnighter leather laptop bag, $550, available at All Purpose, 144 South Flores Street, Los Angeles; 323-866-1828.

To see all 10, go here.

by Christene Barberich and Piera Gelardi