As the owner of a 17" Apple Macbook Pro, I suffer from cute laptop bag envy. One doesn't have to look further than Cool Mom Tech, one of my new favorite tech sites, to find several laptop bags – such as the Sum Women's Laptop Purse from Sumo – that make my inner fashionista smile.
Until she realizes that most of the most "cute" bags are designed to hold 15" notebook computers, or smaller. Not the workhorse (protected in a hot pink Speck shell) she carries around daily, as well as all the cables, cords and papers she often needs when on the road.
After much research, I have discovered there are more attractive options for those of us with larger laptops, and a sense of style:
Kailo Chic ($69.99)
For several years my go-to bags have been from Target. While they are roomy and inexpensive, they are otherwise unremarkable. This take on the computer tote costs more but I love the colors.
Chloe Dau Laptop Flip Tote $59.99
I liked the pattern on this water-resistant polyester laptop tote designed by Project Runway winner Chloe Dado. I would hav preferred to see the inside of the bag, so I could determine if it had any compartments (I like a bag with some built in "cubbies" rather than one big pocket).
Ice Red Shine Glossy Laptop Bag ($75.99)
With its glossy finish and white piping, this line of bags (available in black, pink, silver and red) is oh so retro, reminding me of an old bowling bag, or diner furniture.
ScanFast Element ($99.99)
According to the web site, this bag fits laptops up to 16", but a couple of the reviews gave me hope that my computer might fit into the TSA friendly pocket. The bag has three separate compartments and lots of pockets for pens, cards, cords and more.
If I could, I'd buy one of each, but with several business trips planned for 2011, I decided to go with a pink ScanFast Element. Not only can it accomodate my 17" laptop, with room to spare, it also combines just the right amount of retro-styling, feminine details and functionality. (I found out later it was also in one of my favorite shows, Chuck, which makes me love it even more).
Do you carry a larger laptop? Have you found a bag that looks more like an accessory and less like a piece of luggage?