The Perfect City Work Bag Exists
13 bags that fit your laptop, notebooks, make-up, water bottle, and sometimes more.
I’m on the hunt for the perfect work bag. A friend asked if I knew any bag brands that weren’t laptop backpacks, didn’t look too chunky or like you were going hiking. I didn’t, but I understood her pain. Before I worked almost exclusively from home, I used to juggle between a fabric tote bag I got for free at a fashion show, a *sigh* Nature & Découvertes backpack, and a lovely but heavy leather handbag by a no-name brand. (OK, I mostly wore the Nature & Découvertes backpack.)
Plus, if I see one more woman wearing a heavy backpack and a cross-body bag hanging down to her knees, I’m going to scream. So I decided to do a little research and found a few friendly options. My criteria were design, comfort, size (all bags fit at least a MacBook Pro M1), and reasonable price.
1/ The backpacks
If you insist on wearing a backpack, wear this dreamy-pink one from Rains. It’s cute, waterproof, and has a zipped pocket on the back, within reach without taking it off for even the less flexible among us. Put your phone and metro card in it and get rid of that cross-body horror of a bag.
Image credit: farfetch.com
Or at least replace it with a cool belt bag from MZ Wallace, like this one. I’m begging you! It looks horrible, and it’s terrible for your back too.
MZ Wallace also has a lot of great options if you’re going for a comfy backpack that doesn’t look like you’re going to the gym. The Pewter Metro Backpack Deluxe, as the name suggests, is made for a busy urban lifestyle with a modern design. If you’re petite, go for the slightly smaller Magnet City Metro Backpack in a creamy, elegant gray beige.
Image credit: mzwallace.com
2/ The long-term bag
For those looking to make a long-term investment, leather bags are the holy grail of work bags. I have a few options for you right here, starting with this classic Cuyana leather backpack. The stone-pebbled color is to die for. From the office to after-work drinks, you don’t need to worry. This bag will definitely elevate your look and won’t feel like you’re backpacking through Europe. It also comes in 2 sizes and 3 colors. Oh, still not what you’re looking for?
Image credit: cuyana.com
Then how about this super stylish leather backpack from Swedish duo Persheng and Perdica. Their brand, By BANOO, focuses exclusively on work bags for women. But honestly, they’re so cool, anyone can wear them. Check out this fabulous city backpack in yummy espresso color. Its slick design has the advantage of being delicate while also fitting your entire life inside.
This leather backpack is so stylish and practical that it’s temporarily out of stock. So, if you’re in a hurry, they also have a slim briefcase for a more classic business look.
Image credit: bybanoo.com
If you’re really looking to stand out while still being classy, the Cortona shoulder bag from ATP Atelier, another Swedish brand, is the perfect fit. Many people asked, and they replied, “yes, she fits a laptop.” Go for it; their designs are usually limited and go out of stock just when you’ve decided to put your hands on one of them. Happened to me every. single. time.
Image credit: atpatelier.com
Keeping it classy, the Loxwood Armance handbag is elegant and practical (you can also carry it on the shoulder). The brand’s leather and finishes are impeccable. A perfect example of design atemporel. And to make things even better, it’s on sale now.
Image credit: loxwood.fr
3/ Not a backpack, but still comfortable? Cue the tote bag but make it exciting.
I’m a huge fan of Japanese design, so this MM6 Maison Margiela tote bag was an obvious choice. It’s definitely not your average tote bag. The polyester version is on sale here, or you can shop for the leather version on Farfetch.
Image credit: (left) maisonmargiela.com, (right) farfetch.com
The next bag is a real gem. This preloved Bally leather tote bag in pink! is bound to disappear fast. Heck, I might get it for myself! It has 3 compartments, all the pockets you could need, and zippers to keep your items safe. At this moment, it’s up for only 145 euros. And did I mention it’s pink leather?
Image credit: vestiairecollective.com
Vestiaire Collective is full of work bag gems like this fiery red Lancel leather tote in pristine condition and oh so attractive price! Not a big fan of strong colors? Try this second-hand black leather Sonia Rykiel tote bag with metallic golden eyelets and comfortable handles.
Image credit: vestiairecollective.com
All products featured in this article are independently selected by the author. We do not earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.
