Ralph Lauren, RRL Rowan Floral-Embossed Briefcase

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A saddle maker's briefcase.

RRL by Ralph Lauren · Tooled full-grain leather · Brass hardware

Why it's here

Every other briefcase we carry is European and restrained. This one is American and covered from edge to edge in flowers and scrolls, in the manner of a Western saddle. RRL is the part of Ralph Lauren devoted to that older America, and the Rowan is its boldest piece of leatherwork. Carried with a plain white shirt and dark denim, it is the only decoration an outfit needs.

The object

The pattern is pressed deep into thick brown cowhide, so it reads by touch as well as by eye and will polish on the high points with use. The case zips around three sides. The handles fold away, turning it into a portfolio to carry under the arm.

Living with it

Let it scuff. Tooled leather looks best when the raised parts have gone glossy and the hollows have darkened, which takes a few years of real use. Feed it with leather conditioner once a season.

Line: RRL, Ralph Lauren
Material: Floral-embossed full-grain cowhide
Hardware: Brass
Carry: Retractable handles, converts to a folio

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