It's in the bag

Yes, I have a thing for the manbag. It happens when one must be constantly entertained/distracted on the city street. Between two communication devices (a mobile and a Sidekick), an iPod, a magazine and some kind of candy, I've got a ton of junk to carry. And this season's slim fitting pants don't offer much in pocket space.

This season, I'm obsessed with this series of bags from quirky brit Paul Smith. The trompe l'oiel effect (it's coated canvas kids, not leather) means you won't have to worry about inopportune scratches or nicks on otherwise pristine skins bags.

The best of the lot is the weekender bag (not pictured). Perfect for lugging around your cashmere sweater and APC jeans for a quickie holiday jaunt.

[Trompe L'oeil bags by Paul Smith, Prices vary, (www.paulsmith.co.uk)]