I review the Bleu de Chauffe Musette Business Bag – a classically styled shoulder bag with a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Inspired by the classic design of the traditional musette, it incorporates contemporary elements that can be appreciated by a host of professionals and hobbyists alike. With its photojournalistic style, it has an authentic and dynamic look that's ideal for those looking for timeless bags that combine elegance and functionality without compromising on quality.
Functional and classic styling
The classic deign of the Business Musette carries the stylistic signature of Bleu de Chauffe with vintage inspired luggage that combine contemporary updates with a versatility and practicality at the heart of its use. The bag is made out of a heavy 18oz British Millerain dry wax twill cotton canvas that features an ultra-tight weave giving it incredible resistance to abrasion and traction. The dry wax cotton canvas provides a non-greasy touch with optimal protection against the rain and unpredictable weather. I've seen British Millerain at trade shows and taken samples with me and they have a wonderful selection of specialist fabrics for luggage and outerwear.
The bag has two front pockets for quick access to your small essentials such as powerbanks, note books, pens and other accessories. There's a nifty back pocket the length of the bag which is closed with a magnetic button where you can hold magazines or news papers for easy access. The main compartment can hold more than it looks, with ample space to carry bulkier items. I found myself using it to hold my camera, coffee flask, water bottle and spare sweater (with space to spare). Within the main compartment there's a wool felt laptop sleeve pocket where you can conveniently keep your laptop safe and sound. In addition, there's a smaller zipped pocket where you can keep valuables such as keys or your phone. That pocket also has the signature of the person who made the bag – my was made by Catherine who dated when she made it.
All of Bleu de Chauffe bags are made entirely in their workshop in St-Georges-de-Luzençon, and is made from start to finish by a single artisan, who sign their signature on an internal panel. A nice touch to such a craft focus luggage and gives more onus to caring for it and giving it a good life.
I found that I tightened the shoulder strap to have it higher on my body – a preference of mine, aided by the fact the I have a shorter body bomber jacket. But when holding in my hand, the leather grip is very comfortable, which I prefer to holding rather than the canvas strap on its own. Plus, when carrying heavier loads this will be more practical and comfortable. I did find it took a little while for me to close the handle grip properly and button it together for a more secure grip. But being fairly new, I see this softening over time and use and become easier to afix. The quick release button on the front is a nice touch – and one I'm appreciative of compared to having to undo buckle straps.
I can see myself using the Bleu de Chauffe Musette Business Bag for a number of things, such as days in the city when I'm meeting clients or when I go on personal photo shoots. I can also see this as a good bag to take on day trips. More than anything, I'm looking forward to see it age nicely, getting some slow wear and tear to personalise it, and see how the cotton softens, or patinas from rubbing against jeans or dirt it picks up when placing it of forrest floors or sandy beaches. Thanks Catherine and Bleu de Chauffe, you'd made an awesome bag.
