The 17 Best Work Bags That Match Your Personal Style

This Madewell work tote is a bestselling staple among their bags. Fashion editors love the black and brown combo—and they're great for matching to some of the best loafers out there. As the name suggests, it has a zip across the top, comes in four colors, and measures 11" in length, so it's great for smaller laptops and tablets.

Pros: Has a zip-top closure; Fits a 15" laptop; Comes in several colors; Has three interior pockets; Has a long shoulder strap; Is monogrammable

Cons: Unlined. 

Customer Review: "I love everything about this tote! It's well-made and comfortable on my shoulder. I put so much stuff in it when I’m going to meetings for work. Snacks, my 36-ounce Yeti bottle, iPad, and notebook are among all the stuff I pack in this tote. Madewell is my favorite name brand, and this bag didn’t disappoint me." — Madewell 

The square profile, shiny patent-leather fabrication, and thin-yet-sturdy straps on this J.Crew Edie Structured bag earn top marks in the looks department. But interior pockets and hidden zippers mean this bag is also made for business. Like all of J.Crew's other offerings, this bag effortlessly blends the brand's heritage with fresh touches, leaving you with an accessible piece with modern heirloom potential.

Pros: Fits 14" devices or smaller; Has a zipper closure; Has a structured silhouette.

Cons: Doesn't fit a 16" device.

Customer Review: "Once I saw this bag, I had to have it! Of course, I ordered online because my local J.Crew store didn't have it. It's exactly what I have been looking for: the perfect size for work and everyday essentials like a laptop, keys, cellphone, and my makeup bag. It has a zipper instead of a snap closure, so things stay secure. This bag screams designer and is very polished with the structure, stitching, and gold details. The only drawback to this bag is that there is no crossbody option, and I wished it came in other colors like burgundy or tan. Get this bag before it sells out!" — J.Crew

The durability of canvas makes this Dagne Dover style an excellent choice for a work bag. It's designed to keep you incredibly organized with several deep pockets inside and out. It's also larger than most other bags on this list, making it a great contender for a weekender bag.

Pros: Has several interior and exterior pockets; Can double as a weekend bag; Can fit 16" devices or smaller; Has an interior pouch.

Cons: Some reviewers say the canvas is heavy.

Customer Review: "This bag is much bigger than I expected- In a good way. I can easily fit my laptop, book, sneakers, water bottle, clothes change, and other small personal items. There are lots of little storage pockets inside and out. I love the color for the summer!" — Nordstrom

Modern Picnic rose to popularity for its innovative line of chic lunch bags that look more like handbags. The brand's tote bag comes in five colorways and prints, including black vegan leather and several faux croc-printed versions. It has an insulated insert to keep your favorite snacks or lunch chilled on your commute and a zip-top closure. It measures 13" in height and 16" in length, so it can hold a laptop alongside your food. 

Pros: It has an insulated pouch, interior and exterior pockets, and a zipper, and it's you can do a custom monogram. It fits most 13" devices. 

Cons: The interior insulated pouch doesn't have a handle, which some reviewers say makes it hard to use. 

Customer Review: "I cannot rave about this tote enough!! If you are looking for one staple piece to own, this is the one. It carries so much inside: my laptop, camera, charger, water bottle, and my lunch. The removable pouch is such a nice addition since I can easily store my snacks and food containers in a separate compartment!" — Modern Picnic 

Katie Holmes loves a Mansur Gavriel tote, and so do fashion editors. I styled mine as part of my New York Fashion Week 2024 street-style outfit. It's lightweight and can hold a shocking amount of items inside, including not one but two 13-inch laptops, multiple chargers, and a makeup bag. This bag also has a convenient top zipper, making it easy to access the inside of the purse while staying secure.

Pros: It is editor-approved, has a zipper across the top, is lightweight, and has durable fabrication. It holds two computers, comes in two colors, and fits a 16" laptop or smaller.

Cons: It only has one interior pocket without a zipper.

Customer Review: "This bag is everything! The structure, the size - perfect for every day and work. The handle is so sturdy, too!! Absolutely worth it." — Mansur Gavriel

There's been lots of discussion across the internet lately about which one of The Row's bags will join the pantheon of iconic shoulder bags. This Ben Leather Tote Bag has my official vote. The elongated, slender silhouette sits comfortably under your shoulder and has minimal hardware, and when it's filled, the subtly structured bottom and sides maintain their shape. It's available in two colors and is the perfect if-you-know-you-know quiet luxury option to add to your rotation.

Pros: Comes in two colors; Fits up to 14" devices.

Cons: Only has one interior pocket; Doesn't fit a 16" laptop.

L.L. Bean's iconic Boat and Tote® has gone viral across the internet and amongst the fashion set for its fun, personalized monograms, but at its core, it's a classic canvas work bag that you'll have for eternity. Opt for the zip-top option to make it an easy bag for your work bag collection. This red-and-white version is perfect for summer, slightly reminiscent of the coastal grandma trend.

Pros: It comes in four sizes, two widths, and 12 colors and is top-rated for durability.

Customer Review: "Obsessed with this tote. It is so convenient. I love the longer straps and love the zip-top option. It adds a little more color on the inside. Super spacious, and I get compliments galore over this bag" — L.L Bean

This tote from Bellroy comes in two sizes and five neutral colors, including olive green, burnt orange, and a leather-free cream color. It fits laptops and devices up to 13" in its own dedicated sleeve; it's also made from an easy-to-clean and water-resistant fabric and has a few dedicated pockets for your water bottle, umbrella, and trendy new sneakers.

Pros: It fits laptops and devices up to 13", has a dedicated laptop sleeve, has interior pockets, comes in multiple colors, and comes in two lengths. 

Cons: Some reviewers say it's too small to hold several laptops. 

Customer Review: "It's compact and spacious, great pockets to keep things organised, and I love the water bottle pouch. I'm going to be using it for a looooooong time!" — Amazon

Beis is Shay Mitchell's brand and has a bit of a cult following—and for good reason. This one comes in four colors and print combinations. It boasts a sturdy top handle and a removable padded shoulder strap. Inside, it has a dedicated laptop sleeve, a trolley sleeve that fits over the handle of your carry-on suitcase, and one zipped pocket on the outside for easy access. Consider this the most versatile work bag on this list. 

Pros: It comes in multiple colors, has a shoulder strap, zips closed, has interior and exterior pockets, and fits 11" devices and under. 

Cons: It doesn't fit larger laptops. 

Customer Review: "This bag blows me away. The material is so soft, and the design makes sense. I am thankful for the two outer side pockets that make it easy to shove whatever is in my hands easily in these pockets while walking. I am thankful that the bag has one open unit with a laptop sleeve on one side and a zipper pocket on the other on the opposite side. This way, there are not so many compartments that I can't find anything. This bag is perfectly functional, and I'm so thankful for it!!" — BEIS

This work-friendly tote bag from cult-favorite brand MZ Wallace comes in three colors and is made from a lightweight quilted material that won't leave your shoulder feeling sore after a long day. It's 11" wide and 13" tall to hold your computer and all your essentials. Reviewers on Nordstrom say it's also a great carry-on bag because the interior is so spacious. It has a zipper across the top for extra security, plus a few interior and exterior pockets. 

Pros: It comes in two colors, is lightweight, has a shoulder strap, a zipper, an interior pocket, and fits most 13" devices. 

Cons: Some reviewers say that it doesn't keep its shape. 

Customer Review: "I've been back & forth on ordering this bag for over six months, but I am so happy I finally ordered it. It's big enough for any adventure, & the luggage sleeve is a godsend. I use it for the gym, overnight trips, or even as a laptop/work bag. Cannot recommend enough." — Nordstrom

Everlane says this bag, made from luxurious faux leather, is "no average tote." It's available in three color options, including this classic black version, and features an interior zip pocket for your wallet. It's roomy—it measures 13" in height, and the bottom measures 16.5 inches wide, so it can hold everything you need for work. Plus, the handle drop measures a roomy 9.5", meaning it will rest comfortably under your arm.

Pros: Comes in multiple colors; Has an interior pocket; Fits most 13" devices. 

Cons: It doesn't have a zipper. 

Customer Review: "I purchased the Everlane Market tote in brown leather 8 years ago. I use it every day, and it’s still in amazing condition, so I bought another in black. I love that this is cleaner ‘leather’, which sold me on this purchase. Great quality, bigger than expected, which was a welcome surprise. Highly recommend!" — Everlane

You may know Longchamp for its range of nylon tote bags, but this leather option is a fresh take that screams work bag. It's outfitted with one zippered interior pocket, a key clip, and a dedicated pocket for your phone, so you can easily access all your essentials. The black is a forever-classic colorway, but it also comes in either a clay beige or an olive khaki green. The structured bottom is helpful for maintaining its shape and will keep your belongings organized.

Pros: It can hold 14" devices or smaller; it has a dedicated phone pocket; it has a clip for your keys; it comes in three colors; and it has a structured silhouette.

Cons: It doesn't fit 15" or larger devices.

Customer Review: "This bag is well-made and looks great. It perfectly fits my laptop, notebook, wallet, phone, and other essentials. It is not too heavy and is perfect for work. I love that I can also use it as a basic purse. So versatile. I bought the gray but am going to also get a second color." — Bloomingdales

Inspired by vintage doctor bags, Tory Burch's Embossed Swing Satchel is really just a great, roomy purse. Finished in an elevated glossy white croc-print with gold finishings, it tucks neatly over the crux of your arm—but it comes with a removable shoulder strap, too. Metal feet on the bottom will keep it off the floor, while the interior zippered pocket is the perfect place to keep your wallet. The Tory Burch logo on the bag swings from a delicate chain pendant. Tres chic.

Pros: Can fit 12" devices or smaller; Has a full zipper closure; Has an adjustable and removable strap; Has protective metal feet; Has a microfiber lining;

Cons: Does not fit a 13" device or larger.

Spacious yet sleek, this version of DeMellier's Tokyo Leather Tote is outfitted with demure luxe gold finishings. Truly a timeless design, it does the job without the need for added bells and whistles. This is the bag for the person who notices the small things, like the delicate contrasted stitching on the slender handles or the tiny golden logo across the front.

Pros: It comes in two colors, has longer straps than other bags, has a lightweight design, and can fit 16" laptops or less.

Cons: It only has one zippered pocket on the inside.

Fashion experts are forecasting that slouchy, boho-inspired accessories are coming back into style thanks to Chloe's most recent Fall 2024 collection; this Mab bag from Rebecca Minkoff is a forever classic if you're old enough to remember the first time boho came around but will be right on trend for the months ahead. The caramel hue is perfect for the transition from the colder months, and the exaggerated brass finishings make a statement without going overboard. An adjustable shoulder strap keeps you comfortable, while the removable crossbody strap allows you to go hands-free. Like any good work bag, it comes with one outside and one inside pocket. 

Pros: Has an adjustable shoulder strap; Has a removable crossbody strap; Reviewers say it's lightweight; Comes in nine colorways; Can hold 14" devices or smaller.

Cons: Only has one interior and one exterior pocket; Does not fit 15" devices or larger.

Customer Review: "Super cute bag. Large enough for an iPad and lots of extras. When using, it collapses and doesn’t feel too big and bulky. Comfortable to wear, and shoulder strap does not slide off your shoulder!" — Rebecca Minkoff

This pale powder blue feels like an unexpected work bag color, and we're here for it, considering that it's one of spring 2024's trending colors. Its detachable interior clutch is perfect for storing your phone and wallet, while the 10" strap drop nests nicely under your shoulder. The suede lining adds a luxurious finish, but the pebbled leather will ward off visible scratches and scuffs.

Pros: Comes in four colors; Has a detachable interior pouch; Fits 14" devices or smaller; Has room for a 40 oz. water bottle.

Cons: Doesn't fit 15" devices or larger.

Customer Review: "I love this bag! I wanted a sturdy tote that would go with anything for going back to school, and I couldn’t be happier with this. It fits my 13” laptop and iPad easily, as well as my cosmetics bag, keys, wallet, planner, and kindle. It’s very structured, so I don’t have to worry about it losing its shape or spilling contents when I put it down. I am very happy with my Mulberry purchases so far (I also own a classic Bayswater), and I enjoy having something I don’t see very much where I live! In comparison to the regular Bayswater bag, this one is quite a bit roomier." — Nordstrom

If you're looking for a work bag that's been tested out by a group of fashion insiders, this one's for you. It was the most recommended work bag option back when I was starting my first job in fashion, and it remains a classic to date. Shop it in three colors, including black and a creamy white option. The zip-top closure adds security and has several interior pockets to keep your wallet and phone safe—and within close reach. The flat bottom means your essentials won't rattle (no broken laptop! no spillage from your water bottle!).

Pros: Has a zipper; Comes in several colors; Keeps its shape over time; Has interior pockets. 

Cons: Has no exterior pockets. 

Customer Review: "I’ve been looking for a roomy, durable tote that would be good for every day. I finally found the perfect bag when I got this. I can fit all my stuff (iPad, charger, phone, lotion, lip gloss, water bottle, nurse supplies, etc.) with room to spare, and it’s made of a sturdy material so it can be used in everyday use. I sprayed it with a scotch guard so it doesn’t stain or catch lint. This is the PERFECT bag for everyday use. I loved it so much I bought the smaller version in a different color." — Nordstrom