Hermes Birkin 35 Bag Handmade In Togo Calfskin Leather Silver Hardware S4 Deep Blue

A deep navy bag is the most diplomatic thing you can carry into an office: it reads as seriously as black without the funereal edge, and indoors this S4 Deep Blue goes so dark that most people will assume it is black until the light catches it. Silver hardware keeps the colour on the cool side, which suits tailoring.

Togo in a dark tone is a forgiving combination in every sense. The pebble grain breaks up the light, so the bag looks rich rather than flat; the colour hides the small marks that a commuter bag collects; and the leather’s natural drape means a 35 carries a heavy day’s contents without looking stretched. What it will not do is hold a hard-edged silhouette forever, and if you dislike any softening at all, pressed leathers like Epsom should be your choice instead.

On capacity, thirty-five by twenty-five by eighteen centimetres handles my full working set: a laptop sleeve, a folder, wallet, keys, glasses, a water bottle in the side gap and a small umbrella when needed. The handles are comfortable in the hand thanks to the rounded roll, though the bag is definitely heavier than its 30 cm sibling once it is full.

My honest advice: if you want one bag that covers work, travel and evening, this colour makes that possible. Just budget for the weight and accept the slight softness that comes with Togo.