Leather portfolios go a long way toward creating a polished, professional look. Whether carried to office meetings and conference presentations or toted to casting calls and auditions, these binders are key to making a good impression in the workplace. Invest in a portfolio early on and you'll find it stays with you a lifetime.

Most young professionals do not give much thought to their office accessories. Instead, they focus their efforts on business apparel, often forgetting that the key to a good impression resides with the details. It is a common but unfortunate mistake among newcomers, as a tasteful briefcase or portfolio is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Fake it ‘Til You Make It

One reason for this is that appearances matter a great deal in the work world. Career counselors often tell their advisees to "dress the part." That is, if you dress for success, people are likely to view you as being successful and to begin to intuitively think of you in a more advanced role. Dress as a secretary or assistant and you will seem suited for just that type of position.

Clearly you don't want to take this credo to extremes, dressing up far beyond your financial means or professional status. However, simple accessories can go a long way toward showing that you take your job seriously. A sleek leather portfolio is one such accoutrement, and it is an investment that is bound to reap favorable professional returns.