A roomy bag that fits all your essentials is a work-wardrobe requirement—so why are so many office-friendly offerings so uninspiring? You wear this piece more than almost anything else in your closet: It should not only accommodate everyday necessities like a phone, laptop, makeup bag, and the like, but it should also look chic, too.
It doesn’t sound like too much to ask, right? Of course not! With fall approaching, now is the time to update your look, and since sweater weather is still a ways off, a sophisticated and stylish handbag is the perfect way to do exactly that. Whether you work in a corporate office every day or run your own small business out of the local coffee shop, we rounded up six sizable bags to suit your needs—and your style.
Entrepreneur
Clare V Simple Tote in Navy with Black Racing Stripes, $495; clarev.com
If your command center is a home office, WeWork, a storefront, or a coffee shop, you need a tote that can travel easily—and fit your laptop, meeting notes, and more. Pitching investors and presenting client proposals requires looking polished and professional, but still modern. A roomy, classic navy tote with sporty racing stripes strikes just the right balance.
Creative
Marni Frame Color-Block Leather Tote, $1,590; net-a-porter.com
When you’re in a creative field, aesthetics are important. Your style is sort of a live extension of your résumé, and people will be taking notice. Prove you’ve got an eye for the unexpected with a colorblock bag that’s as fashionable as it is functional. This tall tote will fit everything—from a tablet to rolled up blueprints.
Corporate
Future Glory Co. Rockwell Maxi Bag, $575; shopbop.com
Office appropriate doesn’t have to be synonymous with stuffy. Opt for an elegant, structured tote with hardware details to kick your corporate look up an appropriate notch. Burgundy is a rich alternative to black without veering into too-wild-for-work territory, and a top zip ensures that any confidential files stay that way.
Working Mother
Gucci Diaper Messenger Bag, $1,250; nordstrom.com
Balancing professional life and parenthood is no easy feat, and you shouldn’t have to sacrifice on style. Shuttling between day care and your day job requires a carryall that’s up to the challenge. This stylish logo-print diaper bag fits the bill with its durability and plethora of storage: It includes a foldout changing mat and room for bottles, diapers, and more. Plus, the coated-nylon fabrication means it won’t get destroyed by the inevitable spills by you or your child. Bonus points for not screaming “I have baby wipes in here!”
Technology
Everlane The Form Bag, $235; everlane.com
You likely never leave home without your laptop, so look for a bag that fits it securely (this one can accommodate it horizontally) and is easily transportable. Sleek and streamlined, the all-black option has an adjustable strap so it can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag. That, combined with an interior pocket and magnetic closure, make it the ideal style to go from work to weekend—and back again.
Casual Setting
Max Mara Reversible Shopper Bag, $903; farfetch.com
If your job’s dress code leans toward the casual side you can get away with a slouchier, less formal tote. This brown suede shopper is at once luxe and laid back. Top handles and shoulder straps give you styling options and the roomy interior fits everything from lesson plans to lunch. For added versatility, the bag is reversible so you can switch seamlessly between the solid supple suede and signature jacquard print.
Now all you have to do is choose the right bag for your office—whatever it looks like—and set aside some time during your lunch hour for a little shopping (if you didn’t order on the sly already). It is work related, after all…