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Updated February 1, 2024: This article on best designer work bags for women was updated with new editor product picks, plus additional information on the work bag trends for spring 2024 and beyond.
Whether you’re starting a new job or replacing worn-out attire, a work wardrobe refresh will have you stepping into the office with confidence — and a chic designer work bag is a smart place to start.
Work bags are so much more than your standard purses or totes; sometimes these bags function as your entire office, especially if you work remotely from a coffee shop or frequently catch-up on your to-dos on an airplane. That’s why when shopping for a luxury work bag, you’ll want to find one with comfortable straps, multiple pockets, and a size that’s considerable enough to house a laptop, stylish headphones, a wallet, keys, and perhaps even a change of comfortable dress shoes.
With today’s push for functional fashion, there are more oversized work bags for women than ever before. As seen on the spring runways (think: Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Tory Burch, and Gucci), everything from designer tote bags and slouchy bags to crossbody satchel bags and structured shoulder bags received a high-style size expansion. The pure functionality of a designer handbag is key, but the beauty of the smartest pick also lies in its sartorial longevity beyond your 9-to-5 attire.
“I would recommend that any work bag lean a bit more casual in nature so that it can be paired with your non-work outfits,” says Tiffany Hsu, Vice President Womenswear & Kidswear Fashion Buying at Mytheresa. “Investing in a luxury fashion item with function is important so that it doesn’t just have to be your work bag and can transition to other aspects of your life.” This investment mindset is exactly why dipping into the designer price point category will be well worth your time, research, and budget.
Finally, designer work bags can be an easy styling tool to add depth to work dresses, blazers, and trousers. “I think each bag is perfect for minimalist styling, which allows the bag to stand on its own.” Hsu explains. “Big pants and oversized coats will be my preferred way to style them, but don’t limit yourself. There really are no rules!” Consider this boundless approach when choosing your own, but remember, less can be more.
Whether you’re commuting to work or taking your laptop on the go, keep reading to see the best designer work bags, along with expert picks and tips for shopping for women’s work bags.
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Top Women’s Work Bags for 2024
WWD Women’s Work Bags inspiration: A model shows off a Gucci GG Canvas handbag with leather trim and leather belt with an interlocking GG buckle from the House of Gucci spring 1974 handbag collection.
Pierre Schermann/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images
Editor’s Choice: Best Designer Tote Bag
Marc Jacobs The Leather Medium Tote Bag
Materials: Leather
Size: 13″W x 10″H x 5″D.
Colorways: Black, white, gray, brown, red, green, pink, yellow, and more
Background info: Since 1984, Marc Jacobs has been crafting timeless, standout, and instantly recognizable bags that have a major impact on the fashion industry. The brand has a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, and its products often carry a wallet-friendly price point compared to other luxury handbag labels.
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
You can’t go wrong with Marc Jacobs’ The Tote Bag: This bag is a designer cult classic, and ‘It’ girls everywhere have been toting it around town year after year. It’s even popular on TikTok, with over 411 million views of shoppers talking about how spacious and lightweight it is. This large, leather version has one main compartment that can fit a large laptop and one interior zipper pocket for credit cards, a key fob, or small headphones. It’s also available in numerous shades prettier than the next that you can customize to your wardrobe depending on the season.
What testers say: “Excellent size and quality. Perfect and stylish everyday quote.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $450
Editor’s Choice: Best Leather Designer Work Bag
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote
Materials: Italian calfskin leather
Size: 21.5″ W x 11.8 ” H x 9″ D and 9.8″ strap drop
Colorways: Claret/Caramel, Black/Flamma, Desert, Seaglass, Dolly, and Avorio
Background info: Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel launched Mansur Gavriel in 2013 with just a bucket bag and a tote. Today, that tote is still part of their core collection and a customer favorite.
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Mansur Gavriel Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Our editors love Mansur Gavriel bags, as the brand never falls short on functional, durable construction and timeless style. The Everyday Soft Tote is a mainstay in the daily urban uniforms of Julianne Moore and Katie Holmes, as it can pair with chic staples like a tailored coat or trendy adidas Samba shoes for long days on your feet. The bag itself is defined by ultra-smooth and lightweight leather, as well as a seemingly bottomless main compartment that can store your work essentials like a laptop, designer water bottle, an extra sweater and then some — like your post-office workout gear or a change of clothes for dinner. Plus, it also includes an interior hanging pouch to organize small items.
What testers say: “Absolutely love the style of this hobo. It’s relaxed and easy-looking, lightweight, and just a cool bag to carry. Love the seaweed color.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $475
Editor’s Choice: Best Nylon Designer Work Bag
Longchamp Le Pliage Large Nylon Shoulder Bag
Materials: Nylon; trim: cowhide leather
Size: 12.25″W x 7.5″D x 11.75″H
Colorways: Navy, Red, Black, Paper, and six more colors
Background info: French brand, Longchamp, is known for its luxurious range of handbags, leather goods, and accessories, all with a chic, minimalist design that is classically French. The practical and functional design of Longchamp bags has made them beloved all over the world — the Le Pliage bag is a particular success because of its versatility and is subsequently one of the best-selling designer bags.
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
The Longchamp Le Pliage renaissance has arrived. Designed in 1993, the tote bag style is simplistic and spacious. It makes sense that the silhouette is popping up everywhere, especially as the ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetic and the demand for spacious bags take over. The bag features two durable leather shoulder straps, a zipper and snap closure, and an especially convenient waterproof nylon composition. It’s particularly suitable piece for those who are always on the go but don’t want to compromise style for practicality. While the totes are durable and spacious, they’re never bulky, making them a breeze to carry around. Most ideally, it has a collapsible structure, so you can squeeze it into your suitcase if you’re going on a work trip.
What testers say: “The Large Le Pliage Tote is my absolute favorite bag. I bought mine about four years ago and it is still in good condition, despite everyday use. I have used my Le Pilage Tote as a ‘backpack’ in college, a purse on weekends, and even as an overnight bag for last minute trips. I love the material, because unlike my other bags, the Le Pliage is durable in all types of weather. I don’t have to worry about a rainy day ruining the bag or my belongings and I have spilled water inside the bag (numerous times) and it drys rather quickly.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $155
Related: Best Overnight Bags
Coach Lana Shoulder Bag
Materials: Polished pebble leather shell; leather and fabric lining
Size: 7.68″W x 13.2″L x 20.28″H
Colorways: Ivory, gay blue, amber, black
Background info: Coach has been a household name in leather goods since its founding by a collective of six artisans in 1941. In 1962, the brand’s first lead designer Bonnie Cashin solidified Coach’s codes of color, quirk, and modernity. Today, Coach’s legacy is built upon innovative design, sustainable construction, and a youthful spirit.
Coach Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
You can never go wrong with supple Coach leather. Our editors and 661 million TikTok users alike are obsessed with the Lana Shoulder Bag for its highly organized interior and classic sling silhouette. Its ergonomic design comfortably tucks under the arm like a tote, with a thick strap to support precious tech and heavy essentials. The best part? The central snap-closure compartment opens up to reveal three storage centers, one of which secures with a zipper for extra security. Beyond a 13-inch laptop, the Lana Bag can hold several books, a water bottle, a makeup bag for touch-ups on the go, and plenty of chords and writing utensils you’d need during your busy work day.
What testers say: “This bag is so spacious and absolutely gorgeous. I love that I can also use it as a work bag as it can fit both my laptop and iPad.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $395
Tory Burch Ever-Ready Zip Tote Bag
Materials: Printed coated canvas with faux leather trim
Size: 11.4″ H x 12.6″ L x 6.3″ D
Colorways: Mediterranean Blue, Sunset Glow, Winter Peach, New Ivory, and Zinc
Background info: Founded in 2004 in New York City by Tory Burch, the company prides itself on empowering women through its iconic American-style collections. Accessories are a key part of the business and are always enviable.
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Tory Burch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
Tory Burch’s Ever-Ready zip tote is all about function. Made from a lightweight material that is water-resistant, the durable shape will be your go-to pick for everyday use. Top handles will rest comfortably on the shoulder while you store everything from a 13-inch laptop to your workout clothes for a post-work sweat session. A removable zippered pouch adds to the versatility, and let’s not forget the print, inspired by Tory’s fascination with basketry, which is subtle yet memorable.
What testers say: “Love this bag! It is roomy enough to fit many items without it feeling too big. I can use it to go into the office, to go to the beach or to travel with. You name the activity – this bag can come along. The material inside and out is awesome, feels extremely durable and has an elevated vibe to it. It holds its shape well, and is not slouchy. The two organizational compartments – are helpful, and hold loose items. I appreciate that there is a zipper to close the bag as well.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $298
Ecosusi Laptop Bag
Materials: Canvas and leather
Size: 16.5″ L x 11.8″ H x 5″ W
Drop handle: 9.4″-13.4″
Colorways: Black, black and beige, brown, dark beige and brown, dark green, grey, lilac
#1 Bestseller in Briefcases on Amazon
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Many laptop bags on this list require an investment upfront, but this one hovers right around $45. The signature design stands solid, with long shoulder straps and durable vegan leather material. The size is roomy but not too oversized, and a top zipper keeps your valuables safe and secure. A bevy of interior pockets, including an independent padded pocket in the middle that protects up to a 15.6-inch laptop, makes everything inside easy to locate.
What testers say: “For the price, I had low expectations, but I really needed a larger back for my work computer and daily items. I have gotten so many complements and it is truly standing up to all my tests. Lots of space to haul all of my things and then some. I definitely recommend to any working/teaching person as it fits everything and is more durable than the price lets on. I’m tough on my bags, so I don’t like spending a whole lot on them. I didn’t expect this to last more than a few months but it is holding strong! Lovely color and size.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $52.99
Gucci Diana Medium Tote Bag
Materials: Leather; microfiber lining
Size: 13.7″W x 11.8″H x 5.5.”D
Colorways: Beige
Background info: Gucci is one of the most desirable fashion houses today because it represents the best in Italian craftsmanship and design. Since its introduction, the Interlocking G pattern has remained one of the most illustrative and infamous of the House.
Gucci Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Three words: classic, iconic, unforgettable. Gucci’s Diana Tote is an investment you will never regret. Named after Princess Diana, this leather tote is elevated far beyond a typical work bag, with exclusive luxury notes from Gucci’s heritage bamboo top handles to antique gold hardware. It’s designed to last for decades to come, with supremely versatile features like two optional canvas and leather shoulder straps for crossbody converting and removable leather belt handle shapers. Inside, you’ll enjoy two zip compartments and two main compartments for easy organizing. This style is ideal for after-work outings, as it doubles as a 13-inch laptop bag and an incredibly chic purse in its own right.
Price upon publish date of this article: $4,800
Related: Gucci Horsebit Bag
J. Crew Berkeley Bucket Bag
Materials: Leather
Size: 12.5″H x 13″W
Colorways: Navy black, Ganache
Background info: J. Crew is an American clothing brand that makes wardrobe essentials that are anything but basic. It has set the industry standard for quality, design, and style by sourcing fine fabrics from top-notch domestic and international mills.
There are people who don’t need to bring a lot with them when heading to work, and there are people who do. If you’re the latter camp, then this J. Crew Berkeley bag is for you — though, it’s extended height can successfully secure a laptop too. The suede and leather style has a slouchy design with a thin top handle that fits comfortably on the shoulder. Despite its small size, the interior is expansive, allowing you to take your workday essentials, like your emotional support water bottle or magazines with you, and makes for a stellar plus-one to your briefcase, on days you’d prefer to double-bag your workload.
What testers say: “I got the blue suede/black leather bag. Beautiful materials and very well crafted. Great size and strap length too. I wanted to buy this last time it was offered, but I waited too long and missed it. I didn’t make that mistake again. You shouldn’t either!”
Editor testing and review notes: “I had been eyeing the Berkeley Bucket Bag for a while, so I decided to pull the trigger about a month ago — and I am very happy I did. It’s well made for such an affordable bag and is a good size for work without being too big. Every day when heading to the office, I am surprised I can fit my 13-inch laptop, water bottle, wallet, and a light sweater. I love wearing the navy suede side with jeans and a button-down and the black leather side with slip dresses or trousers and blazer looks.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $159.50
Béis The Work Tote Bag
Materials: Vegan leather
Size: 14.25″ W x 11″H x 6″D
Colorways: Plaid, Black Croc, Cognac Broc, and three other colors
Background info: Launched in 2018, Béis is a travel brand built on the concept of giving every consumer the chance to own stylish luggage that doesn’t break the bank. Co-founded by actress Shay Mitchell, the line makes sleek suitcases, totes, weekenders, and gym bags for those who enjoy being on the go.
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
This small but mighty Béis Work Tote is clean-cut and compact, with the capacity to hold a 13-inch laptop, headphones for your commute, a large cosmetic pouch, and more. From the brand best known for thoughtful and functional features, Béis designed this holy grail work bag with a secure, full-zip closure, removable shoulder strap, trolley pass-through strap (so ideal for work trips), water bottle pocket, and an interior padded laptop sleeve. Plus, there’s a key-ring leash, removable interior zip pouch — which doubles as a clutch— and tons of little pockets to give smaller must-haves like pens, cords, and hand creams their respective places. Choose from one of the brand’s tried-and-true neutral hues, like beige or black, or step outside the box and opt for the label’s brand-new plaid print.
What testers say: “The bag looks even better on hand. It feels very premium and is high quality. Also feels and looks very sturdy. Overall excellent bag definitely would recommend.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $148
Cuyana Classic Easy Tote Bag
Colorways: Black, grey, caramel, dark olive, and four others
Materials: Italian Leather
Designer background: Cuyana is a women-built, heritage-led company offering fewer, better collections that embody timeless design, luxury quality, and sustainability to ensure each piece in our collection will serve a purpose in your wardrobe for years to come.
Cuyana Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
It’s no secret that Cuyana’s leather goods have captured the hearts of “quiet luxury” dressers worldwide. Not only are its designs crafted from the finest Italian leather in Turkey that wear well over time and get better with age, but they’re also timeless, allowing you to wear them over and over again without hesitation. This minimalist-friendly design is sleek, slender, classic. It has a double handle for easy carrying and a spacious interior to store all of your necessities. The everyday bag is offered in five core colors ranging from black to grey and four seasonal hues like butter yellow and burnt orange, so there’s an array of options to suit anyone’s taste.
Price upon publish date of this article: $268
JW Anderson Corner Tote Bag
Materials: Cotton, calf leather; recycled cotton lining
Size: 12.59″ W x 11.02″ H x 17.48″ D
Colorways: Navy
Background info: London-based Jonathan Anderson continues to mesmerize audiences since his debut in 2008. His designs are known to be innovative, blending both masculine and feminine aesthetics. The JW logo features an anchor, nodding to Anderson’s coastal upbringing in Northern Ireland.
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
The JW Anderson Corner Tote is an elevated take on the classic canvas tote, with leather handles and trims, recycled cotton lining, and the brand’s signature gold chain link. It has a very wide, structured base, with plenty of space to store a cashmere sweater or even a folded puffer jacket, along with a small interior pocket that can be removed to wear as a wallet. We love that this dark navy and brown colorway can seamlessly pair with any look, whether you’re keeping it casual in straight-leg jeans, or opting for elegance in a lace dress.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,050
Khaite Lotus Mini Suede Tote Bag
Materials: Cow leather
Size: 6″ H x 6.5” W x 6” D
Colorways: Wine red
Background info: Khaite, founded in New York in 2016 by Catherine Holstein, quickly became a cult favorite brand due to its high-quality craftsmanship and modern design. Khaite’s handbags have been seen on celebs and models alike, personified by the label’s mix of classic American sportswear for today.
Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
“The textured, buttery suede on this bag makes for the lushest, everyday tote,” Hsu says. “A chic alternative to everyday black that can elevate any work outfit!” If you are not toting your laptop around, the mini Lotus shape may look small, but it surprisingly holds a lot. The top-handle design and sculptural silhouette made from soft calfskin suede drape beautifully and effortlessly. Wear with a Canadian tuxedo look for a casual office setting or with leather pants and a blouse when you need to be a little more dressed up.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,980
Prada Re-Nylon Tote Bag
Materials: Nylon
Colorways: Black, Desert Beige
Special features: Re-Nylon: a regenerated nylon yarn (ECONYL®) produced from recycled, purified plastic collected in the ocean, fishing nets and textile waste fibers.
Background info: Since 1913, Prada has proven to be an influential force in the fashion industry. It’s known for designing beautifully crafted and ingenious handbags, clothes, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and now children.
Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Prada nylon is always on-trend, whether constructed as a nostalgic shoulder bag or in a spacious and durable carry-all. The Re-Nylon Tote bag feels ultra sleek and chic, with Saffiano leather handlles and shiny triangle logos, while still performing as a utilitarian sidekick for a commute or business meeting. Its wide main compartment fully unzips, so you can see all of your essentials at a glance, with a interior zip pocket for your office badge or wallet, and a front slit pocket to slip in a lip oil or subway pass. Water-resistant, sustainable nylon defines this bag with practicality and ease, while luxe Prada signatures naturally add polish to any dressy or casual ensemble.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,950
Loewe Large Flamenco Leather Bag
Materials: Leather
Size: Approximately 15″ H x 11.4″ W x 5.5″ D
Colorways: Vintage khaki 4429, black and warm desert
Background info: Jonathan Anderson’s takeover as Creative Director of iconic Spanish house Loewe, known for their leather craftsmanship since 1846, has resulted in some of today’s best It bags, including the Flamenco.
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Pulling from Loewe’s signature Spanish roots, the Flamenco bag’s design was crafted to mimic the ruffles of a dancer’s skirt. Using a cinching technique at the top, complete with knotted drawstrings, the flouncy shape brings femininity to an essential leather bag. Due to its minimalist construction, the Flamenco can be worn from the office to meetings and beyond and service both a conservative and creative workplace environment. Choose the larger size option of this bag to fit all your everyday essentials and more.
Price upon publish date of this article: $3,150
Alaïa Hinge Medium Leather Tote Bag
Materials: Lamb leather
Size: 12” H x 10-18.5” W x 9” D with 20” handles
Colorways: Black
Background info: Azzedine Alaïa was known for his understanding of the female form, creating sculpted garments with a powerful touch. Today, Creative Director Pieter Mulier continues the house’s legacy through his thoughtful cuts, quality, and extensive accessories collection.
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
“The silver stud embellishments on this tote add a chic twist to your everyday black tote bag,” Hsu says. “Its modern shape adds to its spacious design, able to fit all your everyday essentials for work.” Named for its illusionary hardware, the Hinge tote features signature mini studs for a linked look on the seams of the bag. Inside you will find a suede leather lining and a detachable zipped pouch. This investment bag is a major step up from a simple tote.
Price upon publish date of this article: $2,890
The Row Margaux 17 Leather Tote
Materials: Italian leather
Size: 12.5″ H x 17″ W x 10″ D and 15.5” handles
Colorways: Black, Cuir, White
Background info: The Row is one of the most coveted luxury leather good brands on the market, due to its thoughtful focus on exceptional material sourcing, precise tailoring, and distinctly classic design. Founded in 2006 by Ashely and Mary-Kate Olsen, The Row is a go-to among celebrity fans, and has gone on to define the wide-sweeping “quiet luxury” aesthetic of high-quality minimalism.
MyTheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Unique for its celebrity cult-following, The Row creates handbags that are nothing short of modern, rich, and minimalist, with “quiet luxury” trendsetters like Jennifer Lawrence and Kendall Jenner as notable fans. The Margaux Leather Tote is a a vision of sophistication, made with luxe grained leather and finished with belted gusset side panels and interior zip pockets. While it functions beautifully as a top-handle bag or shoulder slinger, it’s also designed to rest on the forearm, with a comfortable grip at its base — similar to an oversized, slouchy clutch bag. It’s not too precious in structure, so you won’t feel guilt over natural bends or bulges, and can even be expanded at the sides to haul all your worldly necessities. You’d be hard-pressed to find an outfit this bag can’t elevate.
Price upon publish date of this article: $5,090
Bottega Veneta Cabat Medium Leather Tote Bag
Materials: Lamb leather
Size: 10″ H x 16″ W x 6.5″ D and 18” handles
Colorways: Raintree Gold, Caramel
Background info: Bottega Veneta is one of Italy’s premiere luxury brands, founded in 1966. The brand’s signature is intrecciato-woven leather, a symbol of the luxury house’s standard of quality.
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
MyTheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
“This roomy tote is truly perfect for all things work-related,” Hsu tells WWD. “Bottega’s signature leather weaving allows for a sturdy tote that’s fashionable yet functional. Its vibrant color also adds a playful touch to any work attire.” This celeb-loved bestselling bag features a wide and deep silhouette, with a detachable zipper pouch, and longer top handles that comfortably fit over the shoulder. Bottega Veneta’s exceptionally opulent intrecciato — Italian for “braided” — weave is not only boundlessly timeless, but exceedingly durable, making for an investment piece you can love for a lifetime. This rich green “Raintree Gold” colorway plays as both a pop of color and a neutral, and pairs with sophisticated ensembles for any season.
Price upon publish date of this article: $9,100
Brochu Walker The Everyday Tote Bag
Materials: Genuine suede
Colorways: Coffee
Size: 15″ W x 12.5″ H x 5.5″ D
Background info: Brochu Walker is an LA-based brand that defines itself as a “conscious luxury” label. It designs effortless women’s pieces that are refined, alluring, personal, and made to last.
If you invest in a luxury work bag, let it be this one from Brochu Walker. For those unfamiliar with the brand, its ethos centers around quality and conscious design — this silhouette is no exception. We love so many things about this bag, starting with the rich brown suede that’s sumptuous and elevated but, most importantly, screams fall. Next are the thoughtfully designed, gusseted side tie details that add style and let you adjust the size. Think of this as a bag for your lifetime.
Price upon publish date of this article: $898
What to Look for In a Designer Work Bag for Women
- Brand: High-end houses that have been crafting leather goods for years, like Bottega Veneta and Gucci, are tried and true, just look at their retail value on resale sites like Fashionphile, The Real Real, and Rebag. Alternatively, many new, up-and-coming brands are focusing on craftsmanship and materials to create modern heirlooms, such as Savette, Ree Projects, and more.
- Quality: When searching for your investment piece, it is important to consider the quality of a designer handbag. Superior fabrics, like leather and luxe canvas, will create structure. Hsu tells WWD Shop, “It’s super important for a work bag to fit my laptop for practical reasons, and I find that leather is always preferable as it can double as a day bag and hold all of my other essential items.” You also want to seek hardware that will withstand daily wear and tear. Also, look for reviews while shopping online to see what has passed the test in terms of customer feedback, as well.
- Design: Look for something with lasting design value, i.e. a minimalist bag or classic style like a tote, that you can wear forever and won’t ever go out of fashion. Special details will upgrade the look, but a clean shape will benefit you in the long term.
- Size: Size is also a question when selecting the best work bag for your needs. A large size will be important if you are a commuter and need to be able to stash everything from your laptop to gym clothes. “I need my work bag to be a bit more oversized, so it’s not too ‘work’ looking and gives my outfit a bit of an edge,” Hsu says. “The proportions are always fun to play with!” If you don’t require so much space every day, something in a medium size will do the trick. Consider what you will be toting regularly and what size will therefore work best for you.
- Versatility: As Hsu pointed out, you want to look for a handbag that will play double duty in your wardrobe to get maximum wear out of your designer investment. A versatile color like neutral will be able to be worn with a plethora of outfit options; however, a timeless pattern or clean design in a bold color can liven up simple outfits in a still chic way. Contemplate what you have or don’t have in your closet and what would work to get the most for your money.
The Different Types of Work Bags for Women
Not all work bags are created equal, so learning about the different types of work bags for women will help you make a smart purchase.
- Laptop carrying bag: If you want to leave your house with your laptop, you’ll probably want a laptop bag. While laptop bags can only fit a computer and possibly a notepad, many large laptop bags, such as laptop tote bags, have additional storage for more essentials. Coach, Tumi, Longchamp, and Clare V are a few of our favorite global brands that are putting their spin on the silhouette.
- Briefcase: The leather briefcase has a long, rich history that dates back centuries. While it was once a staple of the work wardrobe, it continues to be a symbol of professionalism and style. It’s typically made of leather and has a rectangular shape with a flat bottom and a handle or shoulder strap for carrying. Since it remains a popular choice for professionals and fashion-conscious individuals who don’t carry much on their commute, briefcases have been made available in various sizes, styles, and colors to suit different needs and preferences. Interested in investing in one? Leatherology, Coach, and Tod’s, are some of the many brands with briefcases that will help you stand out in an empowering way.
- Work tote: Hectic days spent running around the city between meetings and events require a work tote. Designer tote bags make a faultless addition to any outfit and promise to fit all your daily necessities. Whether you’re drawn to Madewell’s pared-back designs, Tory Burch’s logomania styles, or Marc Jacob’s casual canvas silhouettes, the key to guaranteeing a maximum return on investment is to opt for an effortless yet elegant canvas, nylon, or leather tote bag in an understated shade.
- Satchel bag: A satchel bag, also known as a messenger bag, is one of the most classic work bags. It’s more casual than a briefcase but more professional than a backpack. It has at least one strap long enough to carry across your body and typically rests on the hip, letting you have everything you need at arm’s reach. Forget about being unable to fit your laptop, as most are spacious and even have specialized and padded compartments just for your computer. Plus, there are many iterations from luxury brands like Rag & Bone, Prada, and Tory Burch.
- Backpack: A backpack can add comfort and organization to your work day. Plus, it can be one of the best bags for commuting to work because it keeps the weight distributed on both shoulders and can carry all your items while looking professional. When buying a backpack, look for one made with nylon or leather since they’re extremely durable materials and one with storage space, such as a zippered front pocket that allows quick access to phone, wallet, and keys.
Women’s Work Bag Trends for 2024
Left to right: Ferragamo Spring 2024, Louis Vuitton Spring 2024, Loewe Spring 2024, Bottega Veneta Spring 2024.
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This season, leather tote bags in all shapes and sizes continue to dominate the runways. However, we saw structured top handles and oversized carry-alls take center-stage, with minimal hardware, intricate weaves, and purse-like finishings. To learn more about which styles you should test drive, read our break down of the top work bag trends for 2024.
- Oversized soft totes: The spring runways were defined by striking ensembles anchored by minimalist yet spacious handbags. Oversized carry-alls at Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, and Loewe evoked effortless practicality, which lend to extremely versatile styling for day to night, or spring to fall. Whether styled with a silk slip dress and slouchy boots or a corset top and trousers, these bags make a style statement while remaining functional.
- Structured top-handle bags: The structured top-handle bag is another work bag style seen at the spring 2024 shows like Bottega Veneta, Coach, Tory Burch, and The Row. Exuding sophistication and elegance, this classic style is works efficiently in the office, while still making a strong and polished statement. At its core, it’s a look that means business, fitting for a boss, ready to tackle her day. Since the bag doesn’t allow your hands to be free, it might not be the best choice for busy days. However, there are versatile styles from Gucci or The Row, that allow you the option to convert top-handles to crossbody bags or slouchy clutches.
- Red bags: If there’s one thing we took away from the spring and fall runways, it’s that fiery red fashion is in — even when it comes to handbags. Collections from Gucci, The Row, Ferragamo, and other labels proved that the rich statement hue, whether on a hobo bag or sculptural top-handle bag, promises to breathe fresh life into any outfit — yes, even for spring. If you don’t usually wear color, opting for a red handbag is a great way to dip your toe into this trend and experiment with a vivacious shade.
The Best Designer Brands for Women’s Work Bags
Buying a luxury work bag is an exciting moment in any shopper’s life — but shouldn’t be a frivolous purchase. Selecting a suitable designer work bag should be a personal assessment, considering elements like carrying capacity per your haul of essentials, commute comfortability, and aesthetic versatility, so it can carry you through after hours activities, like happy hour, work events, or date night. A designer work bag is not only an investment in design, craftsmanship, and elevated style, it’s also an investment in your work efficiency, so it’s best to start with brands that are known for thoughtful and durable designs.
“I love the timeless styles that The Row, Bottega Veneta, and Saint Laurent offer in their tote bag selection. Their leather quality will last for years if you take proper care of them,” Hsu says. “I also find that Khaite and Alaïa offer amazing fashion options with impeccable detail and craftsmanship. You’ll have these bags to pass down for generations, so they are a great investment and also provide an undeniable polish to any work outfit.”
Other stellar brands to consider are the same you’d run to for a handbag, to the likes of Coach, Gucci, or Tory Burch. They not only exude masterful quality, but they also infuse distinct style personality, whether quirky, modern, or royally chic, into an outfit — making for a refreshing pivot from boring old briefcases.
How We Selected the Best Work Bags
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
To find the best designer work bags for women on the market, we assessed several different factors and design elements of every work bag on this list, including the style, straps, interior features, and materials used, plus personal testing and market research. To narrow our selections of women’s work bags, we considered Google top store badges, looked to online consumer reviews, and interviewed designer bag experts in the fashion industry, including designers, stylists, and fashion buyers. Additionally, we looked for work bags that cater to all types of occupations. For the second update to the best work bags for women for 2024, we performed another round of research and testing to ensure our readers are up to date on the latest and greatest finds in the women’s handbag market. You’ll find a price range that stems from affordable, budget-friendly finds from brands like Madewell to high-end purse brands like Bottega Veneta that have become tried-and-true favorites in the space. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Tiffany Hsu was born in Taiwan and graduated from the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design of London with a fashion design degree. Afterward, she gained a Master’s degree at Istituto Marangoni. Tiffany previously worked as a buyer at Lane Crawford and Selfridges before joining Mytheresa as buying manager for Ready-to-Wear. In October 2017, she was appointed to be Fashion Buying Director. Within this role, Tiffany oversees the different buying departments and drives the fashion direction by developing capsule collections, exclusive products, or special fashion collaborations.
Meet the Authors
Kristina Rutkowski is a New York-based freelance writer and editor focusing on fashion. She was previously the Senior Fashion Market Editor at InStyle, covering everything trends and shopping. She has also worked in the fashion departments at Self and Glamour. Her bylines have appeared on Vogue.com, TheZoeReport.com, VanityFair.com, and InStyle.com. Editing fashion throughout her career, she has been able to see, try and research the best brands available today. Rutkowski wrote the original version of this best work bags for women story in 2022.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. As a self-proclaimed handbag addict, Cigliano rides the pulse of emerging handbag trends and regularly reports on and recommends popular new releases at WWD. She updated this story in February, 2024, with new editor-recommended products and additional insight on work bag trends for spring 2024.
