A Gladstone Bag is a classic British iconic leather holdall synonymous with luxury, style and character. This famous metal framed travel bag was originally designed by J. G. Beard at his leather shop in the City of Westminster, London. Beard was an avid admirer of four-time Prime Minister William Gladstone, so much so that he named this famous metal hinged bag after him.
He famously quoted, " We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace."
William E. Gladstone
From 1859 onwards Gladstone’s new-world view and liberal approach to politics led to more opportunity for travel. When packing for these adventures it is said a row of Gladstone holdalls would line the hallway of No. 10 Downing Street before each trip, paving the way for a new trend. As an inspirational figure during his time, many political peers and other ministers of State followed suit. Towards the end of the 19th Century, and the end of Gladstone’s political reign, the Gladstone travel bag became symbolic with British class and refinery, being sold to London’s elite in bespoke retailers on New Bond Street and Piccadilly.
Also known as a leather Doctor’s Bag or physicians bag, the quintessential leather travel bag is a small portmanteau suitcase built over a rigid frame. Unlike a suitcase, a Gladstone bag is deeper in proportion to its length offering capacious space and making it the perfect travelling companion. The original design has been perfected over the years using SageBrown’s premium leather, fixtures and fittings and superb craftsmanship to create this signature bag.
Recognised by the iconic hinged metal frame opening with a lock and key fastening, our finest quality leather Gladstone bags draw on British design heritage for a premium investment travel piece that gains character over time.
This timeless, vintage piece of luggage is carefully constructed by hand by skilled artisans from premium grade calf hide chosen for its beauty, feel and durability. This top-quality leather gradually gains character over time and connoisseurs will really appreciate the natural patina that develops, giving your leather Gladstone bag a beautiful and distinctive charm that is sought after by many. SageBrown’s Gladstone holdalls also benefit from butter soft real suede lining for that extra touch of quality.
All SageBrown leather bags are made in their own atelier in Istanbul, Turkey. This exclusive workshop is a small family business who continues to pass down their craft to the next generation. Traditional techniques that have been refined over decades are still in use by the artisans today and they continue to strive towards being as sustainable and ethical as possible. They are able to closely monitor all aspects of the manufacturing process whilst protecting the leather craft industry.
Our leather Gladstone Bags are built to last. Premium leather and hardware together with expert craftsmanship make this a bag you can hand down to the next generation. A sturdy handle and piped edges add lasting quality, whilst a detachable, adjustable strap can be worn comfortably over your shoulder. The bottom of the bag is reinforced, and there are metal feet on the underside to keep it off the ground.
Our leather Gladstone bags are available in three sizes that will make the perfect addition to your travel accessories. Available in classic black, brown, dark tan and light tan you can also coordinate your leather luggage with many other travel essentials. The medium Gladstone bag is the perfect cabin bag size. ( Length: 48.00cm Depth: 23.00cm Height: 30.00cm)
Our versatile Gladstone travel bag is perfect for business or pleasure, offering an alternative to suitcases. The Gladstone design makes it very accessible and allows you to pack your belongings for all kinds of trips. The metal frame opening is instantly recognisable as the main Gladstone feature. It’s a timeless design that is practical, smart and admired by all generations. The metal frame opens really wide to a single main compartment, as well as an internal zip pocket for valuables. The single compartment is deep which means that the Gladstone typically offers excellent space for packing in what you need. The design oozes understated class that will serve you well for years to come, so you can make a lasting impression, wherever you are. There are 3 sizes to choose from depending on how much you like to pack!
A Gladstone bag is a classic style which is synonymous with sophistication and elegance. In the unlikely event that your leather bag needs to be repaired, all our Gladstone bags including the Doctor’s bags have a lifetime service warranty from the date of purchase and covers manufacturing or materials defect under normal conditions of use. Simply get in touch with our customer services team for more information or call us on +44 (0)20 7287 5757.
When not in use, all our travel bags come with a SageBrown branded cloth dust bag to keep your product nice and safe.