The classic workwear companion gets a luxury update courtesy of Berluti. Here’s how to put it to good use.

We are well aware this article (in both senses of the word) does not apply to everyone. We do not all need, nor like, to carry a briefcase. And for those that don’t, it may seem a rather stuffy method of transporting one’s effects. But for those that do use a briefcase – perhaps because of your line of work, or simply because you’re a little more traditional or enjoy the finer things in life – you will know that it is not only an extremely practical way of carrying things, but it can also become a key component of your look. An extension of whatever you’re wearing – rather than simply a humble bag.

With this in mind, we decided to pick out the ultimate piece this season – an investment briefcase to trump all other briefcases – and select a few accessories you might want to put into it. Here’s what we came up with. Case closed.

You may baulk at the level of investment here – but let us break things down for you. Firstly, you will use this every day. It is called “Un Jour” because it has been designed perfectly for a day’s work. It has ample space and compartments for everything you might need – including this smart Tom Ford cardholder. Unless you’re, say, a carpenter (we suggest you look elsewhere for a more suitable bag if so) – this is the complete package for a working day. Secondly – it is made by Berluti. This is a company that specialises in leather, founded in 1895. So it knows a thing or two about longevity. Not only will this last – but the leather will become better with age. I guess you could consider it an heirloom rather than a briefcase.

You can’t spend all your time admiring your briefcase/enjoying the fact that others are admiring it. You will at some stage – probably when you arrive at your desk or meeting – have to open it to remove your essentials. So why not let those things be an extremely professional pen from Swiss stationery expert Caran d’Ache and a smart cross-grain leather Smythson notebook to show you really mean business? You may have nothing to write down, of course, but you can always just doodle.

If you’re anything like us, as you make your journey to and from your place of work, you will need some sort of distraction. Music, perhaps, to both pass the time, and to prevent any awkward conversations on public transport. Perfect. Now, with a such a slender briefcase as this, you might think you’d have to plump for some small headphones to ensure they can be stowed away neatly. Not so. Being as thoughtfully crafted as it is, Berluti’s article has ample room for these amazing and rather sleek headphones – made by the Mr Paul McCartney-approved audio specialists Master & Dynamic. Pack a nice cashmere scarf such as this above piece from Begg & Co to wrap up in, and you’re ready to go.