A few days ago, we had the opportunity to explore the current Spring and future Fall collection by Ben Minkoff. In case you are not aware, Ben Minkoff is the name coined by Rebecca Minkoff for her men’s collection of bags and accessories.

The whole collection is said to be inspired by her grandfather’s heritage as a fighter pilot during World War II, blending vintage military elements and modern working class masculinity. Many of the bags are made of thick yet soft leather, which exudes resilience and ruggedness and will quickly grant the bags a worn look with little use. The canvas options are accented with solid leather straps and brushed brass hardware, contrast stitching finishes the look just right.

My personal favorite of the lot must be the Nicky Messenger Bag, particularly in the off-green leather version (displayed above). The long strap along with its wide strap pad give it a comfortable cross-body fit, easy-to-reach side pockets stash away your essentials, like a wallet or Crackberry. I prefer messenger bags over any other bag shapes, they are properly masculine and functionally instrumental for daily urban madness.

My only gripe with it is that I wish it was called the Clark, Grant, Magnus or Trevor. The name Nicky closely resembles the popular RM Nikki Hobo and doesn’t really give the tough vibe when thinking back at the courageous pilots in their P-51 Mustangs.

The collection is available via BenMinkoff.com.