When a shoulder bag wins men over
Many classic men’s shoulder bags come across as either too formal or too trendy. The secret of Werktat lies elsewhere. Clean lines, natural materials, and craftsmanship you can see and feel. No season, no fashion cycle.
A bag that looks like it's been through a lot—right from day one.
Which one is the right one?
Whether it's a small shoulder bag for your everyday essentials or a large messenger bag for work and documents: The right size isn't so much determined by rules as it is by how the bag looks when you carry it and what you actually want to carry with you:
- Taller people often choose the next size up. Those who are on the petite side usually go for the smaller one.
- If you’re only carrying the bare essentials: FRITZ, EMIL or the vintage leather shoulder bag small.
- For those carrying A4 documents or a tablet: MAX or HANS.
- If you also have a laptop with you: MORITZ or the Briefcase leather.
- Anyone who regularly carries a folder or carries a lot of things: KARL.
Felt and leather – materials that get better with age
Leather develops a patina. Scratches become part of its character, not flaws. We use sturdy cowhide and buffalo leather with different finishes. Depending on how it’s used, the leather changes and takes on the marks of its owner.
Wool felt remains durable, comfortable, and hardly changes over time. The felt provides protection and structure, and – together with the leather – gives the garment its signature Werktat look..
Together, these two elements create a men's shoulder bag that will age gracefully alongside its owner.
FAQ
Are the bags really made by you?
Yes. Every bag is cut, sewn, and finished by hand in our workshop in Ilsfeld, Baden-Württemberg. Not in a factory, not outsourced. Right here.
Will the bag hold up in the rain?
Wool felt and leather can withstand light rain without any problems. Felt is water-repellent—moisture doesn't soak in until after a certain amount of time has passed. Water stains may appear on the leather, but they will disappear over time. Please do not let the bags get completely soaked, and store them in a dry place.
Is your men's shoulder bag particularly modern or trendy?
Our shoulder bags are timelessly modern. They don't follow fleeting trends—we want people to use them for a long time.
Do your bags need special care?
No. Our leather naturally contains high levels of fats, oils, and waxes. You can occasionally wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. The felt also requires no special care. It is stain-resistant and can simply be vacuumed if necessary.
Why does a men's shoulder bag from werktat cost more than an off-the-rack one?
- Because it’s handmade from genuine materials in a workshop in Germany.
- Because it’s not meant to be replaced after just one season, but rather to develop its own character over time.
- And because you don’t buy it because you have to—but because you want to.
