If one product has benefited from near-exhaustive variety, it’s the tried-and-true messenger bag. From seatbelt straps and buckles to bags made from recycled European truck tarpaulin to 1,001 custom color combinations, the options are now endless. Thankfully, Oliberté’s new Blamo ($220) may make all other options moot. The pack ranks high on style, with hand-selected, premium brown and yellow pullup leather, exposed stitching, and tasteful metal accents. At only 14 inches by 19 inches (when folded) it won’t be the pack you use to haul a case of beer, but with a slew of internal pockets—places for your pens, your smart phone, your papers—it’s a solid go-to day pack. The company’s pedigree, however, overshadows the Blamo. Oliberté’ is the world’s first fair-trade-certified footwear manufacturer in Africa, working with indigenous communities to create sustainable jobs throughout the continent. So you can feel good about treating yourself. —Nathan Borchelt
