Whether you’re hauling your laptop to the office and gym gear to an after-work session for a packed all-day commute, or strolling to your neighborhood coffee shop with your tablet and a dream, one thing’s clear: a great work bag is a must. And let’s be real — that flimsy canvas tote doubling as your grocery bag just isn’t cutting it anymore.
Ready to upgrade? We’ve got you. From sleek leather totes to spacious laptop bags to ultra versatile backpacks — and even business-trip-ready options with luggage sleeves — these picks will keep your essentials safe, stylish, and organized. Want extra fashion cred? Look for designer tote bags for work-to-night usage.
So if you’re shopping on a budget or looking to splurge, you’ll find top arm candy picks from R29 reader-favorite brands like Madewell, Quince, and Lululemon, alongside fashionable finds from Coach, MZ Wallace, Polène, and more.
Best Work Tote Bags
Tote bags have cemented their status as a standout choice for work, and for good reason. The spacious style can carry so much, and, when designed for work, have extra compartments, pockets, pouches, and zippers to help organize your belongings. We’re partial to leather totes because of their chicness and longevity, but less expansive alternatives like nylon and polyester make a case for durability. Whether you opt for a boxy or bucket shape, any of these options will surely become your go-to work companion.
Best Work Laptop Bags
If you really mean business, opt for a laptop bag with handy dividers, sleeves, and compartments. From totes to briefcases, these designs keep your tech secure, your accessories perfectly organized, and your on-the-go style sharp. (Many are also available in multiple sizes to fit 13-inch or 16-inch laptops.)
Best Work Designer Bags
Looking to get a work bag that’ll last you many years to come? It may be worth investing in a luxe leather style from a designer brand. From Polène’s bestselling Cyme sculptural bag to Mansur Gavriel’s signature Candy hobo bag, some iconic handbags prove they’re very versatile and can be worn from work to dinner. Seek out oversized styles, high-quality leather, and sturdy straps to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
Best Work Backpacks
Backpacks are our top pick for city commuters, but they don’t have to feel blah or grade-school-inspired. Consider tried-and-true, water-repellant (and washable!) fabrics in streamlined designs or more sophisticated pebbled leather and quilted fabrics to upgrade your look. Features like adjustable shoulder straps, metal hardware, laptop sleeves, and water bottle pockets are the cherry on top of a commuter-friendly and work-appropriate backpack.
Best Work Travel Bag
When it comes to business trips, bags with suitcase sleeves are a must. And these zippered options — from oversized totes to mini duffle bags — combine organized interiors with travel-smart features, like water-repellant fabrics and tons of compartments. Ideal for navigating terminals and heading straight to meetings, these travel work bags are the perfect blend of style and functionality.
Best Work Top-Handle Bags
Channel the sophistication of the ’30s to ’60s with structured top-handle bags, curved (trendy) bowling bags, or slim briefcases that blend vintage charm with modern refinement. And thankfully, many of these styles come with detachable straps so you can also wear them as shoulder and crossbody bags.
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