Fashion’s Busiest Women Share the 19 Best Laptop Bags

This Longchamp bag earns our top spot because it checks all the right boxes: it's lightweight, easy to clean, versatile, comes in almost every color, and carries far more than just a laptop. It has a dedicated celebrity following that includes Kate Middleton and has won over legions of shoppers who adore it because it lasts them for years, even after daily use. It's made from nylon and outfitted with sturdy straps, a top zipper, and a dedicated snap flap over the top to keep your items safely tucked away. It has one large interior pocket on the side, which is big enough to hold a phone, a dainty wallet, and a set of keys.

What We Love: It has a zip and snap closure, it's made from easy-to-clean waterproof material, it has convenient long shoulder straps, and it comes in several different colors; editor-tested.

What We Don't: It only has one small interior pocket.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

Review for MC: "I've loved this bag for over a decade. It was my go-to backpack alternative in high school, and the same tote lasted until I graduated college—I got nearly a decade of use out of an under-$200 pick! Now that I'm a working adult, it's proving just as functional. It can easily hold my 13-inch computer, a change of clothes (including shoes!), a makeup bag, a book or two, and other loose items. I have it in the all-black colorway, and it's my Fashion Week go-to because it goes with everything I own. My favorite thing about it is how evenly it distributes weight. I never find myself adjusting it on my shoulder or changing arms because of a muscle ache, no matter how much I stuff into it. It's shocking how much it can fit and it never, ever slides off my shoulder." — Julia Marzovilla, Fashion E-Commerce Editor

Katie Holmes has been carrying this classic leather bag nonstop, likely because it has all the makings of a great laptop bag—extra long, 10-inch drop handles that can tuck nicely under your arm, a wide interior that can fit a 16-inch laptop, plus a small interior zip pouch for your wallet, keys, and other small essentials.

What We Love: It's made from 100 percent leather and available in several colors. Reviewers say it's lightweight and sturdy; editor-tested.

What We Don't: There's only one small interior pouch.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

Review for MC: “I’ve only worked at Marie Claire for about seven months, but I’ve written about Katie Holmes and her Mansur Gavriel tote bag what feels like a million times already. Her unending love for this unassuming black leather tote was all the encouragement I needed to try it out myself. I took it for a test drive the same weekend I had a 36-hour trip to a family wedding, and one stroll through TSA was all I needed to understand Holmes’s obsession. The bag comfortably fits my 13” MacBook Pro, a toiletry bag, a Kindle, and a change of clothes (and shoes!). Its open, pocket-free silhouette could easily turn into a Mary Poppins situation, but a handy leather pouch inside helped me keep track of my keys, IDs, and Rhode lip peptide. For the rest, I slotted in my own organizers. The strap is just long enough to hang comfortably over a coat or a bulky sweater. And you don’t need me to tell you that the neutral leather matches just about any outfit. When I got home from my trip, I started carrying it to work—but with only the laptop and my wallet inside.” — Halie LeSavage, Senior Fashion & Beauty News Editor

Coach's sellout Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39 has been a fashion insider favorite since it was spotted on Bella Hadid's shoulder over the summer. She's carried two iterations, but the leather version is more commuter—friendly in one of the season's trendiest brown colors. Despite its size, it has a slender profile that fits comfortably under your shoulder even when full of your daily essentials. The interior is unlined, but it does have a smaller slip pocket against the side for your phone.

What We Love: It comes in several colors, two fabrications, and one interior pocket, is versatile and is editor-tested.

What We Don't: It only has one small interior pocket.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.

Review for MC: "I'm a sucker for an It-bag, and this one caught my eye because of the under-$500 price tag. The branding is also super minimal, so I knew it would stand the test of time in my closet. I picked it up in the brown leather iteration, and it pairs seamlessly with my mostly black-and-white closet. Over my few weeks of testing, I easily fit my laptop, a change of clothes, a makeup bag, and a few smaller packages I received at the office and had to bring home. The slouchy shape made filling it to the brim possible, but I never felt like my items would slip out. It also didn't slide off my shoulder when I layered it with my fall jackets, which is a major win." — Julia Marzovilla, Fashion E-Commerce Editor

Kate Spade's glossy Sam Icon Large Tote is an icon. The style has stayed the same since the silhouette debuted in 1993. The result is a perfect low-profile bag for women who love to be organized. It comes with a dedicated laptop sleeve and five other interior pockets. The white colorway is offset by a glossy-grained finish that's easy to clean and durable. It's more structured than the other options on this list and comes complete with little metal feet at the bottom to keep it clean. The two top straps fit on the crook of your arm, but it also comes with an adjustable, removable shoulder strap to turn it into a chic crossbody option.

What We Love: It has a dedicated laptop sleeve and an adjustable removable strap. It also has several interior pockets and is editor-tested.

What We Don't: The top handles don't fit over your shoulder.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches

Review for MC: "My tote bag is essentially my desk on the go, so it needs to be able to hold a lot but also handle a beating. This one ticks both of those boxes. It has six pockets, so I can keep my plethora of lip products, pens, notebooks, sunglasses, and other essentials organized. I especially appreciate its structured shape for schlepping around day in and day out and its easy-to-clean leather. My only (small) qualm is that the handles don't go over my shoulders, but carrying it by the top handles in the crook of my elbows looks chic as hell, so I don't mind. Besides, I can always carry it by the crossbody strap when it gets too heavy." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor

Soft, slouchy bags were a big winter handbag trend and will continue to rise in popularity. This bag is Top-rated for its quality at its price point. Childs loves this bag because of its versatility: It's big enough to carry her 13-inch laptop, a change of commuter flats, snacks, and a touch-up makeup kit for after-work events. It's also cool enough to pair with laid-back weekend looks.

What We Love: It comes in several colors and has a removable interior zip pouch; editor-tested.

What We Don't: It only has one interior pocket.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

Review for MC: "I tried to be a briefcase girl, but it just wasn't for me—a boxy, rigid work bag felt too stuffy, too formal, too. "Look at me! I'm a working professional!" I prefer my laptop bags to be soft, slouchy, spacious, and withstand tumultuous twists and turns. The black leather Anthro tote, which I've had for over two years and counting, is exactly that. It fits my 13-inch laptop, a spare pair of ballet flats, and my touch-up makeup kit." — Emma Childs, Fashion Features Editor.

"I'm embarrassed to admit how many bag straps I've ripped over the years, but I will say that I accepted it as inevitable—until I started using Cuyana's leather tote," says Lucia Tonelli, Marie Claire's Associate Director of Social Media. "The bag is well-proportioned and spacious (it can carry her 15-inch laptop, lunchbox, and supplies). This black colorway is sleek, while the daffodil version is an instant mood booster," she notes. Cuyana also offers their best-selling System Tote in two sizes if you want a bag with similar qualities but a slightly more structured silhouette.

What We Love: It's sustainably made from genuine leather, comes in several colors, has two depths, and has two strap lengths; editor-tested.

What We Don't: It only has one interior pocket for your phone and no zip-top or button closure. 

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

Review for MC: "I’m known by my friends as the “bag lady” because of how much I lug around, even for a casual coffee date. So you can imagine that my work bag is next level chaos. Checking off all the ~work bag~ boxes—big, sturdy, practical, comfortable, stylish—is a tall order, but Cuyana’s Easy Tote is probably the closest I’ve gotten. The simple design allows me to configure all my items without shoving them into a bunch of pockets (the one small pocket is perfect for my keys, metro card, and phone), and the soft leather is durable yet lightweight. The straps are just the right width to prevent them from digging into my shoulders. She’s got brawn and beauty—a staple through and through." — Lucia Tonelli, Associate Director of Social Media

Friedlander highly recommends this L.L. Bean version—what she calls an "underdog laptop bag" that took her by surprise. "As someone who normally swears by sleek black bags, this thick canvas-style tote ended up being perfect and resistant to stuffing, scuffing, or putting it on the subway floor," she says. It's become a favorite of the fashion set because it offers a fully customizable embroidery option. It also has longtime star-studded appeal—a favorite of both Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Gwyneth Paltrow.

What We Love: It comes in several different sizes, is available in a dozen colors, is customizable, washable, and has a zippered top; it is expert-recommended and editor-tested.

What We Don't: It doesn't have a crossbody strap.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

Review for MC: "I have all kinds of great bags that can hold laptops—from super luxury to very affordable. A favorite, though, is my L.L. Bean tote for three specific reasons. 1. It not only holds a laptop but also a pair of flats, my make-up bag, wallet, keys, headphones, and sometimes even a workout tank top and biker shorts.  2. The width of the straps makes carrying it quite comfortable (they don't dig into my shoulders or, worse, feel like they could snap). Lastly, I don't have to be too precious with it. I can sit it on the ground, makeup can leak onto it, but I can just toss it in the washing machine, and it's fine!" — Nikki Ogunnaike, Editor-in-Chief

This bag from Lubardy looks high quality but is super budget-friendly at under $50. Marie Claire’s Associate Commerce Editor, Brooke Knappenberger, tested this bag and can speak to its unmatched versatility. “This bag fits anything I could possibly need to bring to work and some—makeup, deodorant, dry shampoo, a hairbrush, and gum. On top of that, I can fit several notebooks, a water bottle, and, of course, my laptop.”

What We Love: It comes in 10 colors and prints, has several internal pockets for extra storage and organization, and has a zip closure.

What We Don't: Reviewers say it doesn't hold its shape as well as other bags.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

"This is truly the clown car of laptop bags, and I mean that in the best way possible," quips Marie Claire's Entertainment Director Neha Prakash. "It's incredibly spacious and has a convenient interior pocket, so you can fit your laptop, chargers, and work necessities, plus other essentials you might need to go from day to night without a pit stop at home—like gym shoes, an umbrella, a makeup bag, and a snack.” Madewell's The Shopper Tote is a great option if you're looking for a similar bag with thicker straps for the same price.

What We Love: It comes in three colors and has longer shoulder straps than most; editor-recommended.

What We Don't: It has only one interior pocket, isn't lined, and doesn't have a zip or button closure. 

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.

This faux leather tote is great for frequent flyers. It features details like a removable padded laptop protector, a sturdy top handle, and an adjustable, removable shoulder strap. Adding a trolley sleeve at the back makes slipping the bag onto your carry-on suitcase easy, while the wide interior design allows you to use it as a weekend bag for quick trips.

What We Love: Faux leather looks authentic, comes in multiple colors, and has a trolley sleeve.

What We Don't: Some reviewers say the strap comes loose. 

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

This bag from Rebecca Minkoff looks more fun than function, but don’t let that fool you. The thick straps can easily be swapped for an adjustable shoulder strap, and the roomy interior lets you store a computer plus all of your other work essentials. The magnetic snap closure also makes reaching for your computer a breeze. Reviewers love it for the leather material's quality and durability. Others say it's lightweight despite the metallic adornments. Either way, it’s an easy, slouchy bag that will fit right into the boho trend predicted to be big for fall 2024.

What We Love: It has a convertible shoulder strap and a secure magnetic closure.

What We Don't: It only has one interior zip pocket. 

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

This simple leather bag oozes simplicity but has a monogram option for anyone who loves a customizable accessory. The extra-long straps are super convenient for carrying, and the little metal feet along the bottom will help keep the bag in great condition.

What We Love: It comes in two colors, is customizable, has a center-zipped compartment, and has protective feet at the base. 

What We Don't: No secure zipper top.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

This woven pick from Hunting Season has all the makings of a luxurious bag—hand-crafted in Spain and designed with luxe details like a delicate leather trim.

What We Love: It has a lightweight design, sturdy straps, and warm-weather versatility.

Don'tWhat We Don't: It doesn't have an adjustable strap.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

This lightweight nylon bag from Toteme is a great option if you want something different from a classic leather laptop bag. The snaps at the side open up to reveal more interior space, and the longer straps allow the bag to sit comfortably under your arm, even when it's full.

What We Love: It's lined with leather, has a zipped pouch inside, and has an interior pocket for your phone.

What We Don't: No zipper or button closure.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 12 inches.

This Khaite designer laptop bag, plays double duty in your collection as an office and weekender bag. It's made from canvas with luxe leather trim, has a sturdy two-way zipper, and has a sleek interior pocket for your wallet, phone, or keys.

What We Love: It's versatile and can work as a weekend or travel bag.

What We Don't: Designed only with top handle straps.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.

Bucket bags have been trending for a few seasons now, and they make the best laptop bags because of their tall silhouette. This one from J.Crew comes in a classic black shade and is made from glossy patent leather. Its structured shape still feets neatly under your arm, and it comes in three colors, including this dark brown shade that taps into one of fall's color trends. But don't worry—the shade is so deep it almost looks black, so it will still work with your fall outifts.

What We Love: It comes in a neutral color; has a structured silhouette; comes in several colors

What We Don't: It doesn't have any interior pockets.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

This canvas tote from Alex Mill is designed for everyone. It has two sets of thick, sturdy straps, a spacious interior, and two interior pockets with zippers for your valuables. Reinforced boning across the bottom and sides lends some structure and guarantees the bag will last through years of wear and tear. It’s available in three colors, and you can add a bold custom monogram across the front for a special touch.

What We Love: It has two interior pockets, is durable enough for constant wear, has a zippered pocket inside, and is lightweight, according to reviewers.

What We Don't: It's open at the top

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

This trendy suede bag from Demellier comes in a classic color (black) and has just a touch of gold hardware. It has a mix of zipped and slip pockets inside and weighs just over a pound when empty, so it’s perfect for loading up with your work-ready essentials. It doesn’t have a zippered closure, but it does have a dainty gold-adorned strap across the top to keep everything neatly tucked under your arm.

What We Love: Comes in a trendy material; has several interior pockets.

What We Don't: Doesn't have a zippered closure.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.

Saint Laurent's Jamie 4.3 Shoulder Bag was reviewed by Marie Claire's Fashion Director, Sara Holzman, when it debuted in 2023. It earned top marks for its practicality. " t's the unexpected laptop bag that doesn't give off the dreaded "I'm commuting" vibes and can join you at events or dinner engagements without a mandatory stop at the coat check. You can even throw an extra sweater inside," Holzman said. You can now shop it in three fabrications—leather, patent, and suede—and in a few neutral colors like black and brown.

What We Love: Comes in several colors; comes in suede, patent, or leather; has an adjustable shoulder strap; has a flap and a leather tie closure.

What We Don't: Only has one interior zipped pocket.

Max Laptop Size: This bag can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.