The Best Work Bags for Women: 8 Designer Totes That Fit a Laptop
The Best Work Bags for Women: 8 Designer Totes That Fit a Laptop
The short answer: the best work bag is a structured leather tote with a flat base, a zip and room for a laptop, such as the Khaite Medium Lotus Tote and the Bottega Veneta Large Barbara Tote. Shop every designer bag for women at Coveti, and read our guide to designer top-handle bags for a smaller option.
A work bag has a harder job than any other bag you own: it carries a laptop, a charger, a notebook and your day, and it still has to look right in a meeting. The eight below are chosen for structure, space and leather that lasts, and each one is in stock now.
What makes a good work bag?
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Size | At least 35 cm wide for a 13 inch laptop; check the dimensions on the product page |
| Base | Flat, so the bag stands on the floor under a desk |
| Closure | A zip, magnet and clasp keeps things secure on a commute |
| Handles | Long enough to wear on the shoulder over a coat |
| Leather | Grained leather hides scuffs better than smooth leather |
Our picks: the best work bags for women
1. Khaite Medium Lotus Tote in Midnight Navy Pebbled Leather
Pebbled leather in a deep navy, with a soft, roomy shape from the New York label.
2. Bottega Veneta Large Barbara Tote in Black
The large size of the Barbara, a clean black tote with space for a full working day.
3. Toteme Roam Leather Tote in Dark Green
A minimal leather tote from the Stockholm label, in a green that works with navy and camel.
4. DeMellier The Brooklyn in Hazel Suede Tote Bag
A structured suede tote from the London label. Read about DeMellier work bags.
5. Strathberry Kite Tote in Navy Suede
Navy suede with the Kite shape from the Edinburgh label.
6. St. Agni Fawn Bateau Tote in Almond
A long, slim tote in a soft almond tone, easy over the shoulder.
7. ATP Atelier Aosta in Black Tote Bag
A plain black leather tote, made in Italy.
8. JACQUEMUS The Turismo Shopper Bag in Black
An open shopper with clean lines for lighter days.
How to choose a work bag
Measure your laptop before you buy, then check the width and the depth on the product page. Black and dark brown are the easiest colours; navy and green add interest without clashing. For travel days, a crossbody bag inside the tote keeps your phone and cards to hand. See also Polene tote bags and JW PEI tote bags.
Frequently asked questions
What size bag do I need for work?
A tote at least 35 cm wide with a flat base fits a 13 inch laptop and a day’s essentials.
Is a tote a good work bag?
Yes: a structured tote is the most practical work bag, with room for a laptop and papers.
What colour work bag is most versatile?
Black, then dark brown and navy.
Should a work bag have a zip?
A zip, magnet and clasp is worth having on a commute, so nothing falls out.
Is suede practical for a work bag?
Suede is fine with a protective spray; choose grained leather for heavy daily use.
How do I keep a work bag in shape?
Empty it at night, store it stuffed with tissue in its dust bag, and avoid overloading the handles.
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