21 best work bags for women to buy, that are both chic and practical
If nearly 10 years of commuting into London has taught me anything, it's that I would be nowhere without one of the best work bags in tow every day.
Around year two of having a ‘big girl’ office job in the city I invested in Longchamp's Le Pliage tote. It served me well (still does as a travel bag, actually), but now I'm in the market for a refresh. Something practical, definitely, but crucially something chic. I am a fashion writer, after all.
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Lugging your desk essentials around is unfortunately par for the commuting course – and being armed with a good work bag is essential. The alternative? Trying to ram a laptop, notebook, headphones and water bottle into a flimsy cotton tote bag two minutes before you need to leave the house. Not cute.
Just as innovative as one of the best laptop backpacks – though arguably more fashionable – the best work bags are durable enough to see you through the years. You want to go for one with a compartmentalised interior so that A) you can actually find things inside it and B) it’s more secure and safe on your commute. Think a baby-changing bag – with all of its nifty pockets and various straps and handles – but more glam. It’ll need to suit your outfit, too, so go for something that can be worn with a blazer or trouser suit just as well as a summer dress.
Ahead, everything I've learned on my quest to find a really good one – alongside favourites shot on my fellow editors…
How I tested the best work bags
You need a practical work bag – but one that won’t make you look like Will from The Inbetweeners. Unless that’s your vibe. Team Glamour is in the office three times a week, so we've taken the time to test, try and choose the majority of the work bags in this round up so you don't have to. The ones you don't see ‘tested by’ beneath are either currently being trialled by a member of the team or come approved due to design and capacity.
What do we consider? First; the size. If a bag can't hold much (or, at the very least, your laptop) safely, it's not deemed suitable for work in our eyes. Second; the fabrication. You'll notice that most of the bags in this round up are priced in the hundreds, and that's because they're mainly all made from 100% leather or other durable materials. Third; the appearance. We like looking put-together on our commute just as much as you do, so rest assured these styles are as chic as your favourite clutch.
Why you can trust me:
For the past five years at Glamour, it has literally been my job to be clued up on the latest in the world of fashion. I've not only covered the latest trends, but I've advising readers where to shop for practical style and capsule wardrobe essentials, too. Work bags fall into that “practical” category.
I started writing about work bags – and testing them – four years ago, so I know more than your average fashion fan on which one to invest in. During that time, I've seen countless trends rise and fall – but you can rest assured this guide is full of only the latest. To back-up my research, I've attended press days, interviewed stylists and buyers, and worn work bags on days I'm packing light and days I'm packing heavy. In the wind, rain, summer and winter. Ahead, only the crème de la crème.
Below, the 21 best work bags for women to browse before your next office day.
“If super slouchy and oversized is your vibe then this leather tote from & Other Stories is the style for you. It fastens via magnet at the top for easy access and features a generous inner pocket too – though it's more so one of those bags you'll just end up chucking everything into as opposed to keeping organised,” says Denise.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 17 inches.
- Dimensions: 43cm x 52cm x 11cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, freelancer.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.
Deliberate Extra Large Woven Shoulder Bag
In and out of stock like a yo-yo, this bag can be found on the shoulder of Katie Holmes, Iris Law, and all your favourite fashion editors. The reason? It looks 10x more expensive than it is. It comes in a few different colours now, but act fast if you want any of them as they're already selling out again.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 38cm x 50cm x 11cm.
- Material: Synthetic.
- Tested by: Sophie Donovan, Senior Commerce Writer.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these Dune discount codes at checkout.
The perfect everyday bag, the Bayswater Tote from Mulberry is eternally practical and spacious enough to fit all your essentials – from an iPad to a pair of shoes. The classic pebbled leather style closes with the iconic Postman's Lock and features a luxurious suede lining. Use the internal, removable pocket to store your most valued essentials.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 19 inches.
- Dimensions: 30cm x 49cm x 15cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
- Tested by: Kemi Alemoru, Head of Editorial Content.
Melie Bianco Oversized The Brigitte Woven Faux-Leather Satchel Bag
“I've had a plain black bag for work for as long as I can remember, so I wanted something a bit brighter to make my 9-5 as cheerful as possible. This one does the trick, and thankfully, it fits my laptop inside as well as all my daily work essentials,” says Sophie.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 15 inches.
- Dimensions: 50cm x 30cm x 2.5cm.
- Material: 100% polyurethane.
- Tested by: Sophie Cockett, Senior Commerce Editor Europe.
Shaped to the on-trend bowling bag silhouette, and crafted in an equally as in-demand rich burgundy hue, this tote from Coach is giving quiet luxury. And it's currently on sale.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 16 inches.
- Dimensions: 47.6cm x 34.9cm x 17.7cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
This slim, water-resistant backpack from Antler features a back sleeve to slot over a suitcase handle – so it's ideal as a carry-on travel bag when you're on a business trip – and has a padded pocket that acts as a laptop compartment/laptop pocket and charger holder, as well as other slip pockets and exterior pockets. Read our full Antler luggage review for more from the brand.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 41.5cm x 28cm x 15cm.
- Material: 100% recycled polyester.
- Tested by: Louisa Bryant, Associate Visuals Editor.
If you've not seen the Manu Atelier Le Cambon 35 on your commute to work, then you must be living under a rock. It's been coined the work bag for women of all work bags for women this year, making this a rarity to actually find one in stock.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 35cm x 22.5cm x 21.5cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Handcrafted from leather, this Aspinal of London tote bag can hold a 14-inch laptop plus all your other valuables (via its interior pockets) safely courtesy of its zipper fastening. The longer shoulder straps also mean it's comfy to carry whether you're wearing a bulky winter coat or not.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 28.9cm x 45.9cm x 15.4cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags with these Aspinal of London discount codes at checkout.
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The Abbey Large Open Top Tote Bag
Radley has had something of a makeover of late, and we can't get enough of their new-in offerings. Case in point with the Abbey bag; a woven tote that looks and feels well made, ticks the stylish credentials box, and is functional for work.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 32cm x 40cm x 14cm.
- Material: Leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags with these Radley discount codes at checkout.
A high-quality bag doesn't necessarily need to be crafted from leather – this PU design from Katie Loxton is ideal for carrying around your office essentials, and is personalisable. It has a laptop compartment so you don't need to worry about yours getting scratched, plus the back section unzips to attach to your suitcase handle. The perfect work bag for travelling.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 15 inches.
- Dimensions: 29.5cm x 44cm x 18.5cm.
- Material: PU vegan leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these Katie Loxton discount codes at checkout.
Saint Laurent Le 5 À 7 Bea Textured Leather Tote
If you can't treat yourself when it comes to your work bag, AKA the bag you'll use every day and be seen with 24/7, then when can you? Invest well, and it'll last you a lifetime, and there's no better investment than some Italian leather from Saint Laurent. If you love the shape of the Cuyana System Tote then you'll be all over this.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 19 inches.
- Dimensions: 28cm x 49cm x 14cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Le Pliage Original Large Shoulder Bag
“All you need to do is sit on the tube during rush hour to see how popular Longchamp's Le Pliage tote bag is with commuters. It fits everything but the kitchen sink, and features a small internal pocket alongside a large main compartment. It's one of my go-tos when I know I need to carry a lot but I still want to look chic,” says Georgia.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 13 inches.
- Dimensions: 31cm x 30cm x 19cm.
- Material: 100% polyamide with nylon coating.
- Tested by: Georgia Trodd, Senior Commerce Writer.
Coach bags are tried and true with Bella Hadid, and now we've spotted one in the BTS pics of the new Devil Wear's Prada filming. If they're good enough for Andrea Sachs – arguably the hardest working woman in fashion – they're good enough for us.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 11 inches.
- Dimensions: 27.9cm x 27.9cm x 8.3cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
ASOS DESIGN Tote Bag with Lock Detail
While I wholeheartedly recommend investing in a work bag – after all, it's going to be doing a fair amount of hard work for a fair amount of time – good quality doesn't always break the bank. This ASOS DESIGN offering features a thick shoulder strap which should stand the test of time, and is spacious enough for your personal items.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: N/A.
- Material: 100% Polyester.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these ASOS discount codes at checkout.
Polène went viral on TikTok this year for their famous Numero Dix design, and we've been obsessed with them ever since. The Cyme Bag tote offers ample room (enough for a small laptop) and comes with a matching detachable purse pouch for knick-knacks.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 32cm x 38cm x 17cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
We can't get over the fact that this vegan leather work bag comes with a matching makeup bag too. Genius! The tubular detailing lends a polished finish to the rich, burgundy hue.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 31cm x 39.5cm x 20cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
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Dragon Diffusion Large Triple Jump Tote Bag
You'll have seen this chic silhouette on the arms of just about every influencer on Instagram this year, and with good reason: it fits a laptop. The woven leather design seems to transcend seasons, too, trust us; we've seen fashion editors from all publications towing it around from summer through 'til winter.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 22cm x 45cm x 16cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags with these Farfetch discount codes at checkout.
JW PEI is one of our favourite bag brands for its more-affordable take on trending luxury silhouettes. This tote bag not only looks like it's walked straight off a runway, but it'll earn you the compliments on your daily commute too. PSA though, due to it's shape, it'll only fit small laptops/iPads.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 11 inches.
- Dimensions: 43cm x 24cm x 13.5cm.
- Material: Vegan leather.
If you're looking for something super luxe without the through-the-roof price tag, then DeMellier is where you should set your sights. The Hudson is a new-in silhouette from the brand, but it's giving old-money vibes, which, IMO, is exactly what you want when you're at work. Dress for the annual income you want, not the one you have, am I right?
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes, up to 13 inches.
- Dimensions: 27cm x 40cm x 16.5cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
The Chancery Medium Flapover Shoulder
From the outside this medium-sized work bag looks chic and simple, but on the inside it's innovative and smart. Featuring three compartments, one big enough for your laptop and the other two perfect for an iPad, makeup bag, keys etc., it looks twice as expensive as it is.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 22cm x 39cm x 18cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
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Known for their crossbody messenger bags, Cambridge Satchel has upped their game as of late with offerings like The Work Bag. Sleek and streamlined, the minimal design has a ‘90s nod to it courtesy of its smooth leather composition and clean edges. Inside you’ll find a generous compartment designed to carry a laptop, documents plus other daily effects. Love.
- Does it fit a laptop: Yes.
- Dimensions: 33cm x 46cm x 12cm.
- Material: 100% leather.
Save when you shop for the best work bags for women with these Cambridge Satchel discount codes at checkout.
What to consider when shopping for a work bag:
The best work bags for women need to be strong enough to carry all of your important belongings (your planner and stationery etc), but for many of us, they also need to be stylish. That backpack you took on a girls' weekend away with you a few years ago won’t suffice, and neither will your trusty bum bag or cute mini bag. Sorry.
When shopping for a new work bag, consider these criteria:
- Is the interior spacious yet organised?: When testing, most of our editors noted how important a spacious interior is. Especially those who carry their laptops, books, makeup bag and even gym kit. The best work bags will have enough interior compartments to organise all of your belongings – and keep anything damp or dirty away from the rest. You'll, at minimum, need something which has a small pocket for your phone, wallet and keys. And lip gloss, duh.
- Is the colour wearable? There's no point in investing in a bright green work bag if none of your work outfits are, well, green. Consider buying a work bag in a colour that's versatile and wearable. You need to be able to take it from commute to dinner in one fell swoop, whatever the time of year.
- Is the design timeless? Bright pattern and oversized branding might look cool for a hot minute, but will you like it this time next year? Invest in a work bag like one listed above which will remain in-style beyond the season you're in. We've prioritised simplicity in our edit.
- Consider the straps: Most of our editors appreciated work bags with versatile or adjustable straps in their reviews, particularly if a bag only came with shoulder bags that quickly felt too heavy.
How to clean a work bag
This all depends on what yours is made of. Usually a dry cloth or slightly damp cloth should do the trick at removing any light scuff marks or spillages, but if you've invested in a leather work bag you'll need to be extra careful. It's worth purchasing a specific leather cleaner like this one from Handbag Clinic, or, if it's a suede bag, treating it prior to taking it out with a suede protection kit like this one.
What to pack in a work bag
Your life's possessions, duh. Just kidding; it's actually recommended you keep it as light as possible to avoid back pain. Things like your laptop and water bottle are likely to be the heaviest and largest items, but probably the most vital too, so prioritise packing those first. Then decide what else you can't live without; phone, purse/card holder, keys, Airpods/headphones, a snack. Anything that you can leave behind or purchase en route, do. It'll save your shoulder in the long run.
If you're less of a handbag, more of a rucksack kind of girl, then find the best laptop backpacks for women here (including neoprene styles and an Everlane design), as well as the best travel backpacks here. For more from Glamour UK’s Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
