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The best work bags and totes should always meet two criteria: function and style. When searching for your own, ask yourself, is it durable? Will it be sizable enough to fit all of your essentials—laptop, notebooks, planners, wallet, keys, and beauty staples? Is it lightweight and comfortable enough to wear over your shoulders, especially during a daily commute? We’ve all learned the hard way—purchasing work bags that are too heavy to start with, and after filling them up, are almost too cumbersome to lug around, is not a smart investment.
Vogue’s Work Bag Edit:
- The Investment: Bottega Veneta Andiamo leather tote, $5,500
- The Boxy Carryall: Everlane New Day Market tote bag, $275
- The Classic Leatherall: Cuyana classic easy zipper tote, $298
- The Monogrammable Pick: L.L. Bean Boat & Tote canvas bag, $45
- The Casual Canvas: Toteme leather trimmed canvas tote, $1,050
- The Standout Suede: Reformation Vittoria medium tote bag, $498
- The Ladylike Top-Handle: Tory Burch Eleanor satchel, $798
- The City Backpack: Prada Re-Nylon backpack, $2,350
We’ve done the heavy lifting to bring you the ones that check all these boxes and more. Whether it be a classic, leather tote that is minimalist chic or a lightweight, canvas option to keep you moving all day without shoulder pain, all of these work bags are versatile enough to go from high-powered meetings in the morning to drinks at night. You’ll find timeless, investment buys, such as Bottega Veneta’s Andiamo bag, designed with its signature intrecciato leather in a boxy silhouette, or The Row’s Park tote, which is a hand’s down, editor favorite made from the softest, Italian leather. However, don’t sleep on the affordable options either, like L.L.Bean’s iconic Boat & Tote or Everlane’s New Day Market bag.
Whatever one you choose, we recommend paying close attention to the materials and little extras, such as pockets, zips, and other functional add-ons, that will truly make life a little easier. Afterall, these are meant to handle any job. Below, shop the best work bags for women to carry all of your essentials, no matter where you’re headed.
The Classic Totes
For a simple, everyday option you don’t have to be too precious about schlepping to work, look to Everlane and Cuyana for great under-$300 styles. If your budget has wiggle room, Mansur Gavriel and DeMellier have elegant options that ring in under the $1,000 price tag.
The Investment Buy
If you prefer a one-and-done type work bag, consider investing in a timeless style you’ll use for years to come. Bottega Veneta’s Andiamo bag, Loewe’s Puzzle Fold Tote, and The Row’s Park Tote all fit the bill here and are made from the finest materials, truly making them worth the plunge.
The Traditional Canvas
Searching for a lightweight but durable work bag? Consider a canvas tote. It is a timeless staple for a reason. L.L.Bean is a tried-and-true, budget-friendly pick that is also customizable, while Rue de Verneuil and Proenza Schouler make elevated options that feel truly luxe with hardware detailing.
The Ladylike Top-Handle
If you’re looking for a bag with structure, consider a more polished shape, such as The Row’s Sofia top handle or Khaite’s Lila bag to ace the boardroom chic look. Those craving something with adjustability should go for DeMellier’s crossbody tote or Tory Burch’s convertible satchel.
The City Backpack
For those who prefer to stay hands-free during your office commute, may we introduce you to a few stylish backpacks tailor-made for a stylish city slicker. Prada’s nylon spin is at the top of our list, for good reason, while Cuyana’s leather version was designed to fit a 16-inch laptop and more.
The Suede Carryall
A roomy suede tote lets you elevate the everyday without compromising on functionality. The best part? You can find options at all budgets, from luxe styles at Khaite and Toteme to more accessible-priced, cool girl picks from Staud and Reformation.
