The Carry Awards :: Best Work Messenger Results

1st Place

Filson :: Padded Computer Bag

“If rules are made to be broken, this is the bag that will get us breaking them. Never buy an orange bag for the office, unless it’s this one.”

Filson are not wildly innovative. Or super technical. Or ultra-light, ultra waterproof, or ultra-Everest. So why are we recommending this briefcase over any other work messenger this year? Because it nails the emotional side of things, by making it absolutely clear what the brand stands for, and then delivering that 100% every single time.

This is a brand steeped in history, that lets you buy a small slice of that with every purchase. Their instantly recognisable aesthetic means that even when they release an orange bag (orange is normally commercial suicide in bag land), you know it’s Filson, you want it, and you could totally get away with it in a conservative office space. We love these guys for their unapologetic focus, and yet recent small sprinkles of unexpectedness. Oh, and if you want a more complete review of the bag, there are thousands online. People love talking about this brand.

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Highly Commended 

These are the pieces that just missed out, and in most cases, by the smallest of margins. To them, we award a High Commendation. The below were of outstanding quality, displaying fine craftsmanship and design flair. With honour, we bow our heads in the upmost respect and kudos. If this were a dias, they’d be biting their teeth into silver medals, while their flags were hoisted into the horizon – a feat not to be overlooked. And I’m sure they’ll be back, to take it one notch higher, next year.

Modern Industry Faraday 

If we had a Rookie award, Modern Industry would have taken it this year for sure. Their ‘Faraday’ tote just beat the Filson for fan votes, before the panel’s sway put the Filson ahead. The ‘Faraday’ does the whole man tote thing better than almost any other, with their bomber G-Hook, Horween and Martinex leather/fabric, and a simple but highly effective closure system (with stowable shoulder strap). We’re digging these guys. Modern Industry is definitely shaping up to be the brand to watch for 2014. Love it!

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 Cote&Ciel Seine Bowler

Falling somewhere between a messenger, a satchel, a handbag and a hobo, the ‘Seine’ lets you mix work and play without even a sideways glance. The volume can grow and shrink with your needs, the laptop section remains safe and secure in the centre, and the form wraps around your body just enough for a bike commute. Available in loads of fabrics and colours, we hope Cote&Ciel inspires more brands to innovate like this for females.