Combining the joy of your holiday wardrobe with the practicality of workwear, beach-ready office bags are a booming category that effortlessly adapts to different parts of your lifestyle.
We're at that point in spring when shopping for a summer holiday is tempting. You can almost smell the milky sunscreen. But if you're like me and struggle with the idea of investing your hard-earned cash into a piece you have to wait a while to wear…. well I've got some good news for you. There's a whole world of clothes and accessories that will fit into your everyday dress code as well as they do in your check-in luggage during that one-to-two (or maybe even three if you're lucky) week period that will catch you frolicking with a cocktail in hand. It's why I spent the past few weeks trying to find the perfect bag with a dual purpose – both for the beach and for the office.
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What is a beach-ready office bag?
What makes the perfect beach-ready office bag, I hear you ask? It's basically a Venn diagram of your two summer needs, ticking both boxes with equal levels of success. I'm talking about a handbag that has a holiday spirit about it and fits all your poolside essentials: a towel, a book, a sun hat, and a full set of SPF products – yes, that's face and body. It should feel effortless but sand-proof, with colours that correspond to your holiday wardrobe. Though there's something very fabulous about wearing a totally inappropriate bag to the beach (see: Marc Jacobs and his Hermès Birkin in St Barts circa 2012), I would argue that a true hybrid bag should feel effortless rather than accidental. Meanwhile, it should also look suitable in an office environment, pairing well with a blazer, fitting a laptop, and even offering a conversation starter with your colleagues.
READ MORE: The best beach bags, worn on our editors.
How to find the perfect beach-ready office bag?
There are certain elements you should consider before making the leap and investing into a bag.
1. Materials: As a rule of thumb, you should avoid heavy fabrics that are overly sensitive, like suede and aniline leather. They will instantly show scuffs and even a drop of sun oil will be difficult to remove. Instead, opt for pliable and softer textiles that are durable. This includes nylon, denim and canvas, though other textured materials like raffia, silk and woven leather could work too.
2. Colours: Embrace colour – it's summer after all! Even if you're going for durable materials, like denim or canvas, choose print or add colourful details like a scarf and a bag charm. If you're tempted by raffia or woven straw, avoid natural shades of beige and brown as they will look too beachy in the office. Instead, find pieces in darker shades or patterns, as well as those with contrasting handles in alternative textiles, including leather.
3. Shapes: The most obvious choice is a tote bag – large and adaptable to a whole variety of settings. However, their shapes can vary, and I would always encourage you to go for pieces with architectural elements, including bucket or triangle silhouettes that feel super modern. Of course, make sure it's big enough to fit a laptop but not too big where it ends up looking like you're carrying a weekender.
4. Details: While a zip closure is a bonus, an internal pocket is a must! You should always have a place to put your essentials, away from any potential spillage. Every beach-ready office bag should have a shoulder strap, though an adjustable cross-body will make it even more versatile.
Scroll to discover some of our favourite beach-ready office bags, from M&S to vintage Chanel.
