Leather always looks appealing if its brown and i guess thats why i prefer brown leather be it shoes or any other leather accessory. Speaking of accessories, this brown French Connection Oxford Messenger retails for $129 and is one chic accessory any urban man can use to adorn his hands :o)..lol. I love the way the one of the handles passes through the cover flap and i also like the straps in front of the bag securing the flap. The shoulder straps are perfectly hidden and this in no way affects its use, if you choose to.