NIMBLE ‘N’ WHEELED

The bulky, black laptop bags of the past don’t cut it anymore for female road warriors. They want something that makes a fashion statement -- or at least reflects their tastes. The travel accessories industry has obliged: Each new season brings a broader selection of colors, shapes and styles. “Women’s bags -- many designed by women, for women -- resemble high-end fashion accessories,” says Michele Marini Pittenger, president of the Travel Goods Assn. “We’re seeing bright, playful tones, including pastels and polka dots, along with the more serious, businesslike colors.” Six female members of The Times staff teamed up to test some new models. Here’s what they thought.

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First look: The leather Scully Wheeled Work Bag can really stand out in a crowd; it comes in an electric mint, light blue or red. (The shy can also choose it in black.) A laptop fits nicely in the center pocket; the outside pockets have plenty of space for the whatnot you need for work on the road. And here’s a nice touch: A small zippered case holds pencils and the laptop’s adapter cord. The bag has a detachable shoulder strap if you don’t want to roll it, but it’s so nimble on the ground that the strap seems superfluous.

Likes and yikes: The telescoping handle means that tall types need not hunch over to hold the handle. The bag was designed with women in mind, but it’s no lightweight: Empty, it tips the scale at 9 pounds. Add a laptop to that, a couple of books, some magazines and a post-security-purchased bottle of water, and lifting it into the overhead will take a bit of brawn.

The 411: $345, (805) 483-6339, www.scullyleather.com.