During the spring lockdown, many people likely took the opportunity to organize their belongings at home and reflect on what they truly needed. 2020 saw significant changes in lifestyles due to the spread of COVID-19, the rapid shift towards a cashless society, and the introduction of charges for plastic bags, ushering in a new era. Here are 12 timeless and valuable items that will remain appealing even 10 years from now.

I. Bags | Tote Bags & Backpacks

In the midst of everyday life during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as business is no longer tied to a specific "place" and the boundaries between work and personal life become more blurred than ever before, we have selected three bags that blend more seamlessly into daily life.

1. <FELISI> Helmet Tote Bag

A new standard born in Italy with superb design.

This timeless classic from FELISI combines sophisticated design with the functional beauty of a military-inspired helmet bag, enjoying enduring popularity. Maintaining FELISI's signature combination of high-quality, lustrous nylon and vachetta leather, it's a versatile piece suitable for both business and casual styles.

The bag is remarkably thin in width (depth) and features a beautiful, straight cut. However, when you need more width, simply unfasten the bottom button to open it wide, allowing a laptop to fit comfortably inside—a welcome feature. It also boasts a stable and functional design, with convenient outer pockets and comfortable leather handles.

2. <PORTER> Backpack

A backpack that has been loved since its release in 1983 and remains a signature item of the brand.

PORTER's "TANKER" is a renowned series that was first introduced in 1983 and has become synonymous with the brand. The original fabric, developed with the US Air Force flight jacket "MA-1" in mind, is lightweight, soft to the touch, and features a vibrant rescue orange lining. The metal fittings (zippers, snaps, and carabiners) are intentionally designed to show signs of aging with use, with the paint peeling off over time, further appealing to fans.
The main compartment can be accessed not only through the flap but also through a side zipper, and it has a capacity of up to approximately 16 liters. It is suitable not only for business but also for everyday outings and leisure use.

3. LLBean Boat and Tote Bag

A tough "companion" tote bag that you'll grow to love more and more the more you use it.

Originally created in 1944 to carry ice, this tote bag is still produced in the same factory in Maine, USA. Made from a thick 24-ounce canvas, it develops a nice, worn-in feel with use, making it a beloved and enjoyable everyday bag.

Designed specifically for carrying ice, it's also perfect for transporting heavy items like food and camping gear. The ability to choose the right size for different uses and situations is a great bonus.

II. Shoes | Chambord Loafers

In the post-COVID era, shoes that are durable enough to wear both casually and formally, while also having a dressy look, are essential. We've selected two pairs of shoes from PARABOOT, a brand that upholds the theme of "genuine reliability, high quality, and appeal in all its products."

4. <PARABOOT> Chambord

Perfect shoes for business casual wear and water-resistant, these are the new standard.

With the increasing casualization of business attire, the Chambord from Paraboot has suddenly become a staple shoe of the era. Its U-tip design with open lacing makes it easy to slip on and off, and its robust construction, featuring an oil-treated leather upper and a water-resistant rubber sole, is also a major draw.

5. <PARABOOT> Reims

Amidst the dominance of slip-on shoes, loafers remain popular for their rugged look.

The "REIMS" loafers have a substantial overall feel and a design that isn't overly traditional, making them a great match for casual styles. The thick sole absorbs impact while walking, and the sturdy construction ensures excellent durability. Simple and timeless, they gain character the more you wear them.

III. Leather Goods | From business card holders to belts

From classic men's items like business card holders, long wallets, and belts, to smart items that reflect the times, we've selected seven small leather goods that will support your daily life.

6. <L'arcobaleno> Smart Card Case

A convenient pass case that can be attached to smartphone cases and other items.

This elegant smart card holder from L'arcobaleno is crafted from high-quality, finely embossed goatskin leather. It can hold two cards and features an adhesive backing, allowing it to be attached to smartphone cases and other surfaces. Its appeal lies in the fact that it can be used even if you change your smartphone model and its size changes.

7. <SMYTHSON> Business Card Holder

A masterpiece from the "PANAMA" collection, known as the brand's symbol.

This popular card case from Smythson showcases the beautiful texture of high-quality leather with a simple design. Made from premium cross-grain leather with a pleasant feel, it features a subtly placed logo on the back as an accent. In addition to a spacious main compartment, it also boasts a functional design with multiple pockets.

8. <SMYTHSON> Diary

Use your lucky color for 2021 every day to make it a better year!

This diary from Smythson, a brand that started with diaries, features a beautiful, classic "Nile Blue" cover and paper with a subtle watermark that captivates fans. The paper is designed for writing with mechanical pencils or pencils (black ink), making the writing stand out beautifully.

9. EXENTRI Smart Wallet

It can hold both cards and banknotes, has a secure lock, and is easy to open and close.

This smart wallet from the Norwegian brand EXENTRI features a modern design with a cool black finish against richly textured leather. It holds a total of nine cards (two inside and one outside) and comes standard with an RFID blocking shield to prevent skimming. The stainless steel clasp locks securely and is easy to open and close, so you can carry it with peace of mind. It also has the added benefit of being able to hold banknotes, which are still frequently used even in the age of cashless payments.

10. ETTINGER long wallet

A long wallet taken out of a jacket's inner pocket symbolizes a man's dignity.

From its color and design to its leather quality and ease of use, this simple long wallet is a classic choice from a brand favored by the British Royal Family. The exterior is made of firm bridle leather, while the interior uses soft vegetable-tanned leather, with contrasting colors used in the lining. In addition to a bill compartment, it has a coin purse and card slots, making it a practical wallet, and its slim shape fits neatly into a suit jacket pocket, making it a popular choice.

11. <Blao> Foldable umbrella for both rain and sun

A foldable umbrella for both rain and sun that you'll want to carry with you every day.

This all-weather folding umbrella from Blao boasts over 99% UV protection, over 99% light blocking, and heat shielding properties, making it a truly practical item. The understated navy fabric gives it a chic impression, and the underside is in a similar color for a unified look with the outer fabric. The name band, made entirely of elastic, has a hook-type fastener for easy folding, and a strap is attached to the handle. It's lightweight and compact, and the thin handle makes it convenient to store in a bag without getting in the way.

12. Whitehouse Cox Belt

A versatile piece that can be worn with anything from suits and jeans to cotton trousers.

Whitehouse Cox's classic belt features a luxurious finish with bridle leather on both the front and back, and padding in between. The round buckle and loop are connected to the belt body using a detail traditionally used in horse bridles, and the reinforced chap construction makes it sturdy. It pairs well with suits, jacket and trouser styles, as well as denim and cotton pants, making it a reliable belt for everyday wear.



Photograph: Yuichi Tajima
Text: ISETAN MEN'S net