Ah, yes, the grand return to the office. If you weren't already back in your regular pre-COVID working environment, it can be quite the adjustment. But the first step is making sure you have a trustworthy, durable work bag that will fit all the necessities you need five days a week. Oh, and a cute winter work outfit, duh.
What makes a great work bag, you ask? Well first, it needs to be big enough to fit a laptop, yet not so oversized that it's like a weekender bag. It also should look profesh, but not boring. Another must is lots of organizational pockets to hold the miscellaneous items you might need to get through a workday and your possible commute, like books, lip balm, snacks, headphones, etc. You should look for materials that are durable like leather and nylon—the latter of which is easier to clean. However, thicker canvas totes can also hold up over time, and they're less expensive options. Metal feet on the bottom also help protect your bag when you place, or rather, dump it on floor next to your comfortable office chair.
Here, we rounded up 29 of the best work bags for women that are worth carrying, from sturdy totes to crossbody styles to roomy laptop bags with padded protection. Shop them below!
This top-rated backpack has more than 1,300 reviews and a pretty whipstitch detail that runs along its border. It fits a 15-inch laptop, and securely slides onto any carry-on handle if you're traveling far with it.
The L.L. Bean tote has resurfaced lately as a favorite style, especially when you can monogram something on the nose like "WORK BAG" on it. The zipper closure also keeps the contents secure and out of reach when you're commuting.
The shape of this tote will get you so many compliments. It can fit any 13- to 16-inch laptop and the elongated structure keeps your belongings comfortably flat against your side. This baby is also sustainably made with vegan cactus leather, so you can feel good about your purchase.
this paisley one
Call It By Your Name Maxi Cabas Reversible Paisley Tote
this paisley one
Call It By Your Name Maxi Cabas Reversible Paisley Tote
Who knew bandanas of your youth could look so stylish? This guy is reversible and fits any laptop or tablet (and literally anything else you might need) to bring with you to work.
This contemporary design may not seem like it has a ton of storage space, but don't be fooled. It has two deep compartments so you can fit a 13-inch laptop in one, and fit your keys, wallet, notebooks, lip balm, and any chargers in the other.
The length of the strap ensures it stays perfectly nestled under the crook of your arm, and the logo is more subdued if you want an investment piece that's not too flashy.
MZ Wallace has some of the best totes out there because of their puff texture, like this beautiful quilted style that has pockets on pockets on pockets.
Cuyana's leather styles are elegant and ones that'll never go out of style. The double loop strap on this ensures you can carry it multiple ways, and you can even customize it with your initials.
Looks like a work tote, yet also functions like a backpack. This one comes with removable straps so you can carry it either way. It also features a hidden shoe compartment, water bottle holder, and waterproof lining.
The silver hardware and metal feet make this backpack unlike any others. It might not fit a laptop, but it'll fit a tablet and all your other odds and ends.
You may be paying for one bag, but you're basically getting two. This leather tote is fully reversible, making it easy for you to switch from black to leopard-print whenever the mood strikes you.
I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago.