Whether you’re the CEO, the assistant, or something in between, you need a work bag that serves multiple purposes. It needs to look elegant and professional while staying on-trend. It should fit the must-haves (a laptop, wallet, essential-but-random paperwork) with the nice-to-haves (Kindle, makeup tote, reusable water bottle). And it needs to be sturdy.
Despite its functional necessity, a good work bag is one of the last things a woman thinks about when she’s building her wardrobe. Even the most frugal shoppers should consider investing in a quality bag—after all, it’s used nearly every day, and a mid-morning strap snap can cause major issues. Here’s what to look for when on the hunt for a new work bag:
This bag can be worn in three ways—tote, backpack or messenger-style—making it ultra-versatile for the professional on the go. “As a designer, my work schedule can be wacky,” says Bartaile co-founder Jane Hervey. “Some days, I’m setting up camp in a coffee shop for an hour or two in between stacked meetings. Other days, I’m running to catch a flight at the airport (and true to form, I’m usually late). So, when it comes to choosing a work bag, I need something versatile—something designed for a 12-hour life.”
C12 Nylux Laptop Bag in Loden, Bartaile, $185, Bartaile.com
Dual straps: Invest in the right bag, and you’re less likely to have to invest in a chiropractor. A bag loaded up with workplace essentials can be heavy, so you should change the way you carry it to ensure the bag doesn’t start to hurt your body. Look for a bag that has both a long strap and shorter handles to carry in your hands or over your shoulder.
Lightweight: Your things are heavy enough. There’s no need to weigh down a work bag with a ton of hardware. Before investing, pick up the bag and see how it feels before it’s been filled to the brim.
The Zip-Top Transport Carryall in Dark Cabernet, Madewell, $188, Madewell.com
The right level of style: It’s always a good idea to stay on top of the trends, but your profession will dictate exactly how trendy you can get. If you’re a C-level executive, stay with a simple, classic look. Those in more casual jobs can get away with a look that’s a bit more fun.
Neutral hue: A colorful clutch is a wonderful accessory, but stick with neutrals for your work bag, so it matches the majority of your business clothing. Think beige (or champagne, for a bit of shimmer), black, chocolate brown, gray, navy, or even a deep burgundy.
Plenty of pockets: This might go without saying, but an organized gal can really benefit from a good number of pockets in a bag. If you carry your laptop everywhere, look for a tote that has a zippered compartment to store the computer (for safety purposes), as well as compartments for your keys, phone, lip gloss, and other essentials. Then, instead of tossing everything into the main compartment, actually use those pockets—it really does make life easier.
Bree Large Top Zip Leather Satchel in Bordeaux, Rebecca Minkoff, $345, Rebeccaminkoff.com
