What's the difference b/w a messenger bag and a "normal" lap bag?

Do the messenger bag straps go over the head to the other shoulder? Is there any other difference? Any benefits to the messenger bag over the "normal" bag? Why would you choose one over the other?

Any thoughts on whether a messenger bag might be too casual for a law office?

Sorry about all the questions.

:decision:

 

Messenger bags can be worn just on one shoulder or the strap can be adjusted to cross over the body, so the weight is distributed between one shoulder and the opposite hip, and some of the weight is distributed across the body. Weight distribution is not as symmetrical as with a backpack, which is ergonomically better, but messenger bags are considered more attractive. "Normal" bags can have either long, adjustable straps (in which case they are similar to or overlap messenger bags, the difference there being that messenger bags normally can hold more stuff, and some can be large enough for student use), or for women can have 3/4 length shorter straps, and be worn much like a shoulder bag.

There are very nice, professional looking messenger bags in all different dimensions and color combinations. For a law office you might opt for a more sedate color rather than bold colors for a more professional look.

 

I like the fact that you can where the messenger on either shoulder. I also like the fact that you can put more stuff in them. Thanks. Now I just need to choose one. LOL.

I'm gonna try to stay away from "hot pink" bags.

 

Messenger bags are for cool people and laptop bags are for geeks.

 

Heh, that's a pretty bold statement

I like messenger bags, because they not only look cooler, they often look smaller then what they really are...

What I mean is that, from the outside, it looks small and slick but on the inside, its an endless portal for junk

 

if your looking for professoinal looking messenger style bags check out www.tombihn.com . Their stuff looks professional and is really well made.

www.crumplerbags.com has some cool designs that might work for the office too if you can figure out thier website. With crumpler its best to find the model you like and then buy it off ebay.

 

This bag is perfect for me:
http://www.800.com/ssm/Icon-Noteboo...BV_EngineID=cccfaddgdlgmmlkcfngcfkmdffhdfko.0

It's super light weight, has multiple areas for files and provides easy access to the lappy. However, the color stinks. Dangit!!!

Through all this searching I've decided that weight and folder storage are the absolute most important things.

Still looking. . . .