This one definitely fits in the "computer bag that doesn't look like a computer bag" category. Crumpler's The Cashmere Blazer (US$165) is a messenger bag that conceals a built-in computer sleeve that's well padded. It fits up to a 17-inch notebook but it works just fine with my 15-inch MacBook Pro too.

The best part about The Cashmere Blazer is that it's a perfect weekend bag because of its large size. In addition to a PowerBook, MacBook or iBook you can easily pack a weekend's worth of clothes and accessories inside. Traveling with one bag has its benefits, especially when you can carry your MacBook Pro and a weekend's worth of clothing in a single bag on a commercial aircraft (just remember to ditch the liquids!).

Crumpler has been producing quality bags for around 10 years and they've built a reputation for their eye-catching designs and bright colors. The Aussie company got their start building bags in the early 90s when Stuart Crumpler saw a need for better luggage. Their Web site is famously crazy and their bag names are over the top. My current favorite names are The Dreadful Embarrassment followed closely by the The Whickey And Cox.

The Cashmere Blazer computer sleeve accommodates the 17-inch PowerBook & MacBook Pro and smaller notebooks. My MacBook Pro 15-inch fits without sliding around too much, especially when the rest of the bag is packed.

Arvin W. Casas contributes:

One of the reasons I got this bag was for the size, but I wasn't prepared for how big it truly was. Sure enough, the Crumpler's computer sleeve section was able to handle my MacBook Pro AND sleeve, which is why I got it. It's a little snug, but I think that's better than having it slide about too much.

But the rest of the cargo space (and cargo is an appropriate word) is cavernous.

I was able to pack lots of my normal junk (lunch, coffee thermos, phone, iPod, set of encyclopedias, etc.) and more if I desired. (Photo shown here is from Crumpler. My daily pack is only half the size so far.)

Due to its size, when I sling the bag over me shoulder messenger style, the bag covers practically the entirety of my back. I'm more a bag with a man then man with a bag with this model Crumpler.

The slick strap Crumpler provides with a quick release lock is quite handy but very long. I don't necessarily know how the "kids" are wearing them these days (either here or in Australia, where Crumpler is based), but for ergonomic back concerns, when I position this bag at my waist (I've been told that for ergonomics, you should let any bag's bottom ride close to your wrist level for optional hand support), there's still a good two feet of extra strap in reserve!

I didn't know what to do with this bounty of strap. I spent some time debating whether I should chop it or wrap it up somewhere. I tried to imagine people wearing their bag long, but if I used this much extra strap, the bag would hang under my knees.

Features:

- Water resistant 1000D Nylon shell
- 420D ripstop Nylon lining
- Fully padded main & laptop compartments
- 1x external gusseted zip pocket w/ 6 pocket organizer
- 3x internal front pockets
- Adjustable main strap with Quick Flick buckle
- Removable shoulder pad with "Third Leg" stability strap
- Clip & Velcro release flap

Dimensions:

- 45x45x20cm
- 17.5x17.5x8in
- vol 20 litres

Laptop Sleeve:

- 40x32x4cm
- 15.7x12.6x1.6in

The Cashmere Blazer comes in two colors Brown/Beige or Charcoal/Light Gray. You can use the main or side strap to attach an optional extra Thirsty Al mobile phone holder.

Overall The Cashmere Blazer is my favorite weekend bag, especially in the summer. It not only holds my MacBook Pro, power adapter and bunch of trade magazines, it also held all of my clothes on a weekend trip to Nantucket. If you're looking for a quality bag with good looks that can also lug your A wardrobe in style, then check it out.

If you're looking for the same type of bag in a slightly smaller package Crumpler has them too. Check out The Horseman, The Part and Parcel and The Hee-Goer.

Crumpler
The Cashmere Blazer
US$165

NYC:
Crumpler (SOHO)
45 Spring Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 334-9391

Crumpler Custom Bag Shop
49 8th Ave
Corner of Horatio and 8th Ave.
New York, NY
(212) 242-2537

Arvin W. Casas contributed to this review.