In the famous words of Dolly Parton, “workin’ 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin’.” But before you pour your cup of ambition–no matter what your day-to-day schedule looks like–you still need the work essentials that help you conquer the day, like the best work bags for women. If you’re a dress-for-success-type fashionista like yours truly, nailing down the perfect work wardrobe along with your most comfortable heels may be crucial for your office visits. However, your office look isn’t complete without something to tote around all your things—hence the need for the perfect work bag.
There are a few components I consider when searching for the perfect work bag: It must fit my 13-inch MacBook, be sturdy enough for me to run around NYC, serve as eye candy, contain organizational compartments, zippers for security, and go with all my ’fits (of course). And for a major bonus, have the ability to be worn as a crossbody bag.
Buying a new bag should be exciting, so we’ve saved you some time by rounding up the most functional yet stylish bags that’ll take you from your morning commute to the boardroom and beyond. Here, discover some of the best, top-rated works bags–from Amazon finds to designer splurges—that’ll make your job a tad bit easier. Now go get ’em, girl boss.
Magnetic closures harder to close the more you have inside
I have to give some love to my current work bag. She’s very reliable and trés chic. Containing three expandable compartments and several interior pockets, this tote is basically keeping my whole life together.
Key Specs
Dimensions
Zip compartments: 19” (top) & 13” (base) x 10” x 5”;
Side compartments: 14.5” (top) & 16” (base) L x 11” H; 10.5” handle drop
What people are saying:“I haven’t enjoyed a work bag in a long time. This one keeps things compact and organized, and everything I need is easy to find.”
Cuyana’s collection of bags and matching accessories allows you to tailor your purchase to your exact organizational needs. Looking for a zipper pouch to hold charging cords? Want to forgo a laptop sleeve? Prefer a thick attachable strap? The choice is yours.
Key Specs
Dimensions
13-inch: 10” x 17.25” x 5”
16-inch: 11” x 19” x 5.5”
This leather tote is spacious enough to use as a work bag without looking like it belongs in an office. Use it to tow your laptop and legal pads Monday through Friday, then as a regular purse on the weekends.
What people are saying: “It is the perfect size for my laptop and notebook without being too oversized/heavy. It’s simple and sleek and something I will have for a long time.”
Whether you’re chugging along your morning commute or jet-setting on your next trip, you’re going to love this versatile leather bag. Plus, the straps can be customizable with Madewell’s new bag straps.
What people are saying: “This is a very well-constructed bag.”
Key Specs
Dimensions
12.25” x 11” x 5.5”
Color
Forest, True Black, English Saddle, True Black Brown
The best part about keeping it simple with a laptop bag is that there’s no room for extra clutter to accumulate. That’s right, no random gum wrappers and hard candies at the bottom of this bag.
What people are saying: “This is a very nice, feminine-looking bag, even in black, with lots of room for a laptop, portfolio, files, and whatever else a woman on the go needs.”
Need a bag you can take from day to night? Turn heads with this classy briefcase bag that also doubles as a purse. This structured beauty can fit your 13” laptop and makes getting everything in and out a breeze.
What people are saying: “I, a Virgo, did leagues of research. This is the most fabulous model in our world. Do not hesitate to transform your life with its divine powers.”
Work smarter not harder with a bag on wheels. Efficiency at its finest.
What people are saying: “It is great looking, durable and highly functional. All of the pockets are useful for storing and getting at whatever you need quickly and easily.”
Amanda Le is a contributing writer at Hearst Magazines, where she covers fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment. In her free time, you can find her thrifting her next outfit, traveling to new cities, crushing a boxing class, or eating her way through NYC!
Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different. Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country. Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.