Stylish laptop bags

By Rosemary McClure

First look: "Beautiful handbag," remarked a flight attendant as I stored the Knomo bag in the overhead compartment above my seat. "Thanks," I answered, "but it's not a handbag. It's a laptop bag." The canvas and leather bag -- the one I carried was chocolate and tan -- fits most 15-inch laptops, is lightweight (2.43 pounds) and lightly padded. Three internal compartments and a zippered back pocket help organize material. The bag has a two-year guarantee.

Likes and yikes: The beauty of the Knomo bag is that it can be used as either a smart-looking handbag or as an efficient laptop bag. It is roomy enough to store files, laptop paraphernalia, a cellphone and other travel necessities. But my favorite thing about it: The top is magnetized to close automatically. Negatives: Because the padding inside isn't very thick, a dropped bag could cause havoc with your laptop.

The 411: $295, available in four colors and fabrics. Call (800) 737-5160 or visit www.knomo.com. Also available at Benchley Luggage Ltd. in Newport Beach.