In Search Of: The Perfect Work Bag

You know that cute bag you get for college that you end up being obsessed with and wear to every single lecture, brunch, and the library?

Mine was an absolute workhorse. She never failed me. At least, not until 3 months into my first corporate job when I realised the corners had cute little holes (strangely not a design feature) and the straps were cutting into my shoulders more than usual.

So, with my first big girl job salary, I decided to start my search for the best work bag.

If you're not sure what you're looking for in your dream bag, don't worry, I didn't either.

My only requirements were that it was:

• Cute

• Approved by the girls

• Preferably a zip top

• Spacious, it had to hold lots of junk and withstand the weight of my laptop, ridiculously oversized water bottle, and the bottom-of-bag gems: old receipts, lip balms, and mints.

If you're also in search of the perfect work bag, look no further - here are the top 8 beauties I discovered on my search, ranging from $79.99 to $399.00 USD, that I simply can't forget.

1. The Work Tote from BÉIS

This one is a modern classic - structured with a full zip, a laptop sleeve inside, and made from vegan leather. Absolutely love that it has little feet to protect the bottom and a trolley sleeve!

2. The Daily Tote from Dagne Dover

Similar to Beis, Dagne Dover has a range of travel bags and their tote bags also feature trolley sleeves - like the Daily Tote! The Medium is a great size for 13" laptops and like Hermione's magical bag (probably), there are countless separate pockets inside. The thicker strap is padded so it's more comfortable to wear on the shoulder.

3. Tubular Slouchy Tote Bag from Charles & Keith

A more affordable option, absolutely obsessed with how slouchy this is but that it's still structured. Charles & Keith have a range of styles, including large work totes and hobos, so feel free to browse if this one isn't quite your style.

4. Forget About It bag from Status Anxiety

I might be biased because Status Anxiety was my first bag! But I think that means that I can confirm that these last you forever and a day and will never give up on you.

This one isn't exactly the same one I bought, but she's similar enough with pebbled leather, a slightly slouchy look, and a thick enough strap so it won't give you premature shoulder pain.

5. The Becca from Naked Vice

Up and coming, the Becca from Naked Vice is clean and effortless - this was actually a TikTok recommendation that I saw. She has a leather outside, polyester lining, and a mostly covered zip top. A true shoulder bag through and through, she's giving Prada Re-edition 2005 but oversized - as all bags should be.

6. The Tote Bag from Arket

Confession: I've been in love with this bag since early 2022, however she is, without a doubt, out of my tax bracket. Look at her - buttery leather and smooth construction - she is absolutely not a flop.

But no longer!

We have a beautiful dupe close to the original cream that I loved:

7. The Shopper bag with buckle from Mango

Speaks for herself - she is absolutely spacious enough to lug your laptop, notebook, old fruits, and water bottle back and forth. The only watch out I have for both the Arket and this Mango bag is that the middle inner compartment with a zip cuts the bag in half widthwise, which might limit what you can stuff inside.

8. Large Lace Basket from Palorosa

Last but certainly not least, this Palorosa is my honourable mention. It's definitely a standout, and although a basket bag may not be your go-to choice for an everyday work bag, I'm certain she will hold the essentials dutifully and give your outfit an effortless vibe.

That is my roundup of only some of the unique, fresh, and functional work bags I found on my journey.

However, if these are out of budget or comfortable spending range, I completely understand - I still wouldn't splash out on some of these bags unless it was bonus day. I would recommend looking at Zara, H&M, and Glassons for cheaper but still cute and durable alternatives. If thrifting online or in-person is accessible for you, that's also a great option to consider.

So, in my search of the perfect work bag, (spoiler!) I ended up buying the Dagne Dover Daily Tote and can confirm that not only is she functional, she is a true compliment gatherer.

For next time - what are you in search of?