Quick answer: Rich people prefer long wallets because they offer superior organization, aesthetic appeal in professional settings, complement formal wear, integrate tech features, and preserve the condition of important documents, enhancing both functionality and style.
They will usually be made from full-grain leather, as it's the most versatile and professional in appearance (more info).
We go into more details below:
Superior Organization for the Multi-Tasker
Long wallets fit better in suit jackets, for one thing, offering the storage capacity of shorter bifolds and trifolds, but in a thinner profile – but it’s more than that.
They also offer superior organization, holding cards more systematically, carrying foreign cash better, and sometimes even hold passports and phones.
An example would be at international trade shows, where quick and efficient access to different currencies and business cards from one secure wallet proves indispensable.
Visual and Tactile Appeal in Professional Settings
When a person takes out a long wallet, it evokes images of lords and powerful governors and industrialists, symbolizing their wealth and power in their style and choice of wallet.
Sleek, yet ample in storage, they show a long face unbroken by folds, and suitable for personalization or fine finishes to be shown to greatest effect.
A long wallet looks professional. Traditional. Powerful. And these impressions transfer to the one who uses it.
Picture attending a high-level business negotiation—presenting a well-kept, stylish long wallet can subtly influence the perceived credibility and taste of its owner.
Optimized for Travel and Formal Wear
The image above is of this passport wallet.
Long wallets, as mentioned above, work best in more formal attire.
The placement and size of an inner breast pocket of a suit or overcoat holds the wallet well, allows for easy access, and the line of the suit is not marred by an overly thick wallet in a breast or pants pocket (see our guide on carrying things in your suit here).
Their size is great for travel too, allowing the user to carry passports and wider foreign cash without anything sticking out of the wallet, risking loss and destroying the elegant look.
It is elegant practicality and security, at work or on a journey.
A Practical Choice for Tech Integration
Long wallets are large enough to better incorporate technology integration.
As well as RFID protection, they can house a smart tracker (Bluetooth or GPS) or even built-in power banks.
For example, a long wallet with a smart tracker ensures that a busy professional attending various meetings throughout a convention center can quickly locate their wallet via their smartphone if misplaced, a safety net that’s both practical and reassuring.
Preservation and Condition of Contents
Long wallets keep their contents in pristine condition.
Bills and cheques placed in them are flat, unfolded, and might even leave your wallet in better shape than when they went in!
Receipts, too, are kept in excellent condition for you or your bookkeeper to read, file, or scan.
Von Baer: Luxurious Italian Leather Products
For when only the highest quality leather will do, choose Von Baer.
Our products are defined by Italy’s finest full-grain leather, pure luxury.
Handmade by experienced craftsmen with decades of experience.
An investment in something beautiful that you'll treasure for years to come.
Conclusion
Long wallets provide superior function and capacity compared to regular bifolds or trifolds, and so are counted among the top choices for the wealthy.
Author: Igor Monte
Igor Monte is the co-founder of Von Baer. He's an expert in all things premium leather, from being an end-user right up to the design and manufacturing process. His inside knowledge will help you choose the best leather product for you.
