Using a tote bag makes it easier to blend in around town.

━ Tell us what appeals to you about tote bags.

In my line of work, I often have to use large camera bags or carrying cases. So if for instance when boarding a flight I bring a tote bag along with my carrying case, I can at least keep valuable items like my PC and camera right there with me. Part of this is that cameras are a bit lighter than they once were, though. Also, sometimes I don’t want to stand out as a photographer, right?

Like for example if I’m taking pictures of cherry blossoms in the park, every once in a while a clever girl will come up and ask me to snap a photo for her. Since she’s gotten it into her head that I can take good shots since I’ve got a nice camera hanging from my neck (laughs). That’s why it’s even more embarrassing when I don’t perform up to expectation because I can’t figure out how to work the smartphone she hands me (laughs). So one appeal of the tote bag is that I can avoid that type of situation by quickly tucking away my camera when needed. Carrying a tote bag allows me to fit in more easily when I’m out in the city.

An upgrade to my outfit.

━ What is your impression of Glenroyal?

The workmanship is solid and really makes it sink in that this is a label that has been in business for over 100 years running. Glenroyal products are light for leather goods, and I feel like the way they avoid excess ornamentation gives them a touch of class. Actually, I was quite fond of briefcases before I bought this tote bag. At the time I was pairing a Kelly green briefcase with suits by Liverano & Liverano. I used the case for more than five years after purchasing it in 2002 or so. From there I underwent some changes in terms of profession and personal style to the point where now I prefer brown tones with a British feel to them. Combining brown shoes and bags with grey suits just looks really British, right? While there aren’t as many occassions that call on me to wear a tie these days, I feel that simply carrying a Glenroyal tote bag as part of a casual ensemble really enhances my outfit.

A bag that can be trusted with a camera.

━ What do you like about Glenroyal tote bags?

I naturally can’t have my cameras falling on the ground, so I’m hesitant to put them in bags that I can’t trust. I like Glenroyal tote bags because they use stiff bridle leather and are built solidly. A little bit of rain isn’t going to trouble them any, so I can feel safe using them to carry my cameras. They also stand upright when set down, it’s great to be able to place it at my feet when I’m in a restaurant or somewhere that I have to put my camera away. Also, there surprisingly aren’t many leather bags that you can wear over your shoulder. One of the greatest things about this bag is how I can keep it over one arm and get at my camera quickly as called upon by the situation.

━ Tell us a bit about British culture.

I’ve loved British fashion since I was young and really immersed myself in its culture like punk and New Wave from London, two-tone styles like those of the Specials, and Vivienne Westwood. I’ve since had the opportunity to go to London several times for work and really gotten a taste of the actual city. Whenever I speak with people over in England I’m always aware of how stylish they are. For instance, people whose preferred winter coat is by Barbour will wear it until it’s all worn out then go buy another from the same brand. The same goes for fans of Lavenham or Mackintosh; once they like something, they always have one on hand. Japanese are more prone to buying something different once its predecessor is past usefulness, right? I really find this part of the British way of thinking to be interesting.

━ Do you feel that this way of thinking carries over to how you make your own choices?

Very much so. I pretty much only use items that I’ve decided to stick with. For example, recently I only wear shoes by New Balance, and my pants are all grey. I have about 15 extras of this cotton coat I’m wearing today, and I’m always prepared to buy more if I come across the model in the right size and color. I choose the hats and wristwatches I use regularly in the same way. As for tote bags, I have an early Hermes model, an L.L. Bean nylon bag, this Glenroyal leather tote that I use interchangeably depending on the situation. Each of these items is irreplaceable to me, so I can’t but use them a lot.