I find that for shorter rides, any clothing works, but I would avoid saddles with stitched pattern.
The most comfortable saddle is a firm one that is shaped to fit your rear-end configuration, and support your sit bones. It may not work for someone of a different shape, so personal recomendations should be viewed with caution.
Like many old-timers, I like Brookes leather saddles. If you have the patience for a few weeks break-in period (much less painfull than people suggest), you will have a saddle that is custom moulded and will last for years.
For more upright riding, the sprung models are good, but for most riding the Professional or B17 models work well. B17s have bag loops for fitting proper full-sized saddle bags.