16 best work bags for women, according to years of testing
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Senreve, Freja, KAAI, Bandolier, Quince
A good work bag will make your life easier and more organized when you're mobile, especially stylish ones that make you feel confident just by carrying them. We asked our team members at Insider to share their selections for the best work bags for women and explain what they love about them. And if you need a fresh outfit to pair with your work bag, read our guide to the best work clothes for women.
You'll find a few Dagne Dover bags on this list, and that's because they've truly mastered the art of interior organization. We also love KAAI for their beautiful totes that look and feel like the ultimate quality.
See below for a quick peek at our top five picks. Plus, read on for in-depth reviews on why we love these bags.
Our top 5 picks for the best work bags for women
Samantha Crozier
The Allyn Leather Tote gets our best overall award because it pulls off the Marry Poppins effect. It seems like a slim, unobtrusive tote but it can fit absolutely everything and more.
This work bag has the best internal organization features of any tote we've tested. It has a neoprene laptop sleeve, a snap-in water bottle insert, a key leash, and tons of smaller zippered and unzippered pockets. There's also a place for bulky chargers and two slim pen pockets that I put lipstick in.
My favorite compartment is the phone-sized slip pocket on the outside, which I use all the time. It's the perfect pocket for easily accessing your phone on a crowded subway.
Another one of the best parts about this bag is how wide it opens, so you won't have to go blindly digging for anything. But despite how much it holds, the bag has a manageable silhouette that isn't bulky at all, even on my five-foot-two frame.
Read our full review of the Dagne Dover Allyn Leather Tote to find out more about why this bag got the hard-earned top spot.
Samantha Crozier, KAAI
The stylish Pyramid Bag is one of the more expensive picks on this list. But the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship mean that you get what you're paying for.
It's made from scratch-proof leather that won't discolor or wilt in the rain. This is a higher grade of leather and far more durable than other kinds of materials like pebbled leather, vegan leather, or genuine leather. So, even if this pick is more expensive, it is likely to last a lot longer than other choices.
The blue suede inner is the most high-quality lining of all the bags on this list. When I first tested this bag, I nearly gasped when I first felt it. The buttery soft lining makes this bag really stand out as a luxury pick.
There are subway-friendly details like little metal feet on the bottom that keep your bag from touching the floor and two phone-sized slip pockets on the outside.
Plus, it comes in two other sizes — the Midi Pyramid (which can fit up to a 13.5-inch laptop) and the Mini Pyramid (more of a handbag size).
Samantha Crozier, Quince
The Italian Leather Tote from Quince is a great, simple tote that will check all your boxes if you're looking for a basic work bag on a budget.
It's a fantastic deal at under $150 for Italian leather. Similar bags cost twice as much. Plus, this one also comes with bells and whistles like a dust bag that is usually only included in more expensive purchases
The bag even has little metal feet, which I love as a feature but many work bags lack.
If there's one criticism I have of this bag, it's the lack of pockets with zippers. The only zippered compartment is the center pocket that's meant for a laptop. Other than that, there are three open pockets in the interior that are big enough for a cell phone.
The tote is also not lined, which doesn't make too much of a difference when you're using it, but the interior is not as luxurious as most of the bags on this list. However, it does mean that the interior is wipe-clean, which is blessedly low maintenance.
See our full review of Quince to check out our team's favorite pieces we've tested.
Samantha Crozier/Insider
The Bandolier tote is made of pebbled leather and has a built-in laptop compartment.
The padded sleeve fits laptops up to 15 inches and has a snap closure. This is a little less secure than a zippered compartment but also allows you to use it for books or folders if you don't carry a laptop.
The straps have reinforcement where the bag rests on your shoulder so they won't cut into you if you carry something heavy. This is my favorite detail about this bag — and one that makes a big difference when you're seriously schlepping.
It comes with a cute coin purse that you can hang on the outside.
The organizational features are simple but functional. Inside; you'll find a zippered pocket, a few open compartments, and a special sunglass-storing space. There's nothing overly inventive, but this also means that you won't have tons of extra pockets for things to get lost in.
Samantha Crozier, Freja
I got Freja's Paloma Tote in Latte after seeing the vegan leather brand all over Instagram. I absolutely love both gold hardware and work bags with a simple but unique style, so I'm partial to the aesthetics of this stunning bag.
This bag can hold a ton due to its roomy shape. I've put a 16-inch laptop, a book, a water bottle, a jacket, a charger, and all my small essentials in it with absolutely no issues. Honestly, it could probably also fit lunch, a makeup bag, and a whole 'nother laptop if necessary. The straps are also thick enough that they won't dig painfully into your shoulders if you're seriously schlepping.
The inside is just as pretty as the outside, with shiny hardware and a gold-brown lining that feels like vegan suede. Plus, the Paloma Tote also has lots of inner compartments— zippered and unzippered — for essentials.
One thing that might be a concern is that the middle zippered compartment doesn't fully close. The bag is designed so that there are gaps at either end, which gives it that pretty silhouette. But this isn't a great choice to double as a carry-on since putting it under the seat may lead to items slipping out. However, the brand does pitch this as a chic water bottle slot, so it might be a pro for you.
Read our full Freja review to see our other favorite picks from the brand.
Sally Kaplan
Available in two sizes, Dagne Dover's Signature Tote is the best work bag for women who want structured elegance. The saffiano-style vegan leather looks just like real leather, and it's just as durable, too.
It has almost all of the same organizational bells and whistles as our best overall pick. "Some of Dagne Dover's most popular features incorporated into the bags — like the water bottle holder, padded laptop compartment, and key leash that makes your keys easier to find — are also some of my favorites," says Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.
The structured silhouette makes this a slightly more formal option. If your office attire consists of blazers and skirts, this bag will go perfectly.
The shape and size of the handle make it easy to carry over the shoulder even when you're wearing a bulky coat.
After testing the larger version of this bag, our recommendation is to stick to the medium size unless you need to carry a large backpack or need to haul around a lot of stuff.
See our full review of the Dagne Dover Signature Tote here.
Rebecca Strong
This highly-functional commuter bag topped our list of the best work backpacks for good reason.
Firstly, it's constructed with lightweight, waterproof fabric spun from recycled plastic bottles — and even the zippers are waterproof, meaning I never have to worry about my gear getting wet on a rainy commute.
Not only that, but everything is designed with easy access in mind: for example, the shoulder strap pocket allows me to quickly grab my phone or keys, and the dual elasticated 1-litre bottle holders make it simple to hydrate in a cinch.
Most importantly, though, what I appreciate about the Apex 3.0 is that I have peace of mind my devices and other valuables are protected. The tech section is engineered with protective cushioning to safeguard my laptop from damage, and the lockable main compartment (where I stash my wallet) even features an AirTag pocket just in case I misplace my bag.
The reason the Apex 3.0 tops this list, though, is because, in addition to functionality, it also delivers on comfort — which is crucial when I'm toting it to and from the office every single day. The ergonomic design includes sculpted and padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel. Did I mention that it looks sleek as heck, and maintains its shape no matter how little or how much I'm storing inside it?
By the way — Troubadour is so confident in the quality of this backpack that they offer a five-year guarantee, meaning they'll repair anything that goes wrong within that time frame. — Rebecca Strong, freelance writer, Insider Reviews.
Sally Kaplan/Business Insider
Cuyana's Classic Easy Tote is our top pick for the best tote bag because it's chic, durable, flexible but not floppy, and can fit a huge amount of stuff. And though it looks like a basic tote at first glance, there are actually a ton of thoughtful details that have gone into the design of the bag.
Two sets of straps mean you can carry the tote like a handbag, or you can use the longer set of straps to throw it over your shoulder. Internally, there is a small pocket for things you need to grab frequently, and there's a tie you can use to close the bag up a little more if you want.
Cuyana also makes several accessories, like the Classic Tote Insert, for organizing the interior of your bag. These are great if you like a bit more structure or interior protection since the soft Italian leather is unlined inside.
I've had my bag for about 4 years now and I've taken it on every vacation, flight, weekend trip, and long car ride in that time. It fits an unbelievable amount of stuff, but it also doesn't look floppy or silly if I just put a few things in it.
On a usual vacation, this bag will hold two pairs of shoes, my giant Dyson blow dryer, a hair brush, my toiletry and makeup bags, a scarf or sweater, and a couple snacks. I use the interior tie to keep it closed when I have to shove it under my seat on a plane, but they also make a zippered version of the Easy Tote if you prefer the added security. Just note that you may not be able to shove quite as much stuff in it if you wanted to zip it closed. —Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.
Samantha Crozier/Insider
The Strathberry Tote isn't designed as a work tote, so you won't find features like a padded laptop compartment. But it's still big enough to fit everything you need. And if you don't carry a laptop to work, you can also get it in Midi and Nano sizes.
Strathberry is Reddit's favorite brand. I first learned about Strathberry while browsing the r/handbags Reddit forum, which is filled with exacting handbag enthusiasts who are quick to criticize quality. The subreddit has a huge contingent of users who are passionate about holy grail, mid-tier luxury picks that are made with the same quality and craftsmanship standards as brands like Gucci and Hermes. And the brand they always rave about is Strathberry.
Each Strathberry piece takes an artisan a minimum of twenty hours to complete. This is absolutely apparent when you look at the stitching and feel the leather. The suede lining is also beautiful to touch and the hardware is shiny and expensive-looking.
This is a work bag literally worthy of royalty since Strathberry is a favorite of royals like Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton. The only drawback is that it's one of the more expensive picks on this list, but it's also one of the picks with the highest level of craftsmanship.
Strathberry also made our list of the best purse brands you may not have heard of.
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Brace yourself to be approached by inquiring minds wanting to know where your bag is from. The Maestra is a convertible tote that began trending as one of the best work bags for women on the basis of just how adaptable its structure is.
You can easily change between a shoulder bag, a top handle bag, and a backpack. "As someone who commutes on a subway where I constantly have to take my backpack off to make room for people, it's a daily relief to be able to just pull the strap up and turn the backpack into an over-the-shoulder strap. That way I don't have to set it down on the floor of the train, potentially risking exposure to NYC's Most Disgusting Surface and all the sticky things with which it's covered." says Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.
The bag is just downright beautiful. This stunning leather piece is available in a variety of colors and finishes.
At its current price, the Maestra is definitely up there. Though should you be looking to invest in a daily-use work bag, its timeless silhouette has the stamina to last through years of trend cycles.
Check out our full review on Senreve's Maestra Bag here.
Samantha Crozier, Insider
Monos has long been one of our go-to travel brands. We recently reviewed Monos' carry-on luggage and loved some of the same things that we love about this tote.
This tote is a lot roomier than you'd expect it to be. You can fit way more than just a laptop and some essentials, which is why it takes the award for the best travel tote.
Plus, it has the travel bells and whistles you'd expect: a luggage sleeve, a zipper that goes across the entire main compartment so that you can tuck it under your seat without worrying about items slipping out, and a zippered front pocket for quick accessto a phone or passport.
If you're always traveling for work, this is absolutely the tote for you. But if you want something light and slim for everyday use, then this isn't the right pick.
Talia Ergas/Insider
I'm a long time fan of Arden Cove's anti-theft crossbody bag, which has lots of added security features without sacrificing any style points. The brand has an equally well-designed tote bag, the Victoria Tote, which has ample anti-theft protection but still manages to look chic. For those concerned about security, this is the best work bag for you.
The bag is crafted from a slash-proof nylon fabric that's also waterproof. The zippers are waterproof as well, so this bag can withstand quite a bit of liquid without getting its contents wet. There's a convenient front compartment with RFID-blocking technology where I keep my credit cards, phone, and any other go-to essentials within reach. The zipper has a locking feature to protect against theft.
Inside are more convenient features, including a 13-inch laptop compartment, two open pockets, and a zippered pocket. My favorite interior feature is an elastic water bottle loop that keeps my water bottle upright and secured to one side of the bag.
But the straps are a little too narrow. If I'm carrying a lot of weight (such as a laptop and a full water bottle), I find that the thin, vegan leather straps dig into my shoulders a bit. In those cases, I recommend purchasing two jacquard straps to convert it into a backpack. — Talia Ergas, freelance style writer.
Talia Ergas/Insider
Equal parts stylish and functional, Cuyana's Double Loop Satchel is a splurge, but I believe it's worth every penny.
It has an elegant, unique silhouette that resembles an oversized shoulder bag more so than a traditional tote bag. If you're going right from work to happy hour, this is a perfect way to look professional but not stuffy.
The interior and exterior pockets are relatively minimalist. There are two exterior magnetic pockets on either side that are perfect for stashing small go-tos like a packet of tissues or my iPhone. The inside of the bag is pretty simple in design: there's an open laptop pocket that can hold a computer up to 14 inches (a 16-inch laptop can fit in the main compartment) plus one zippered pocket.
You can add more compartments. If you prefer some more organizational features (like I do), you can snap on a System Flap Bag (sold separately) to add another magnetic interior pocket. Though it's an extra cost, I feel it's worth it since the System Flap Bag can be detached and used as a clutch — or you can purchase a strap for it to turn it into a small crossbody tote. — Talia Ergas, freelance style writer.
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Another clear winner for one of the best work bags for women is Caraa's dual-purpose Studio Tote.
This is a perfect pick for city commuters. "Convertible bags are lifesavers for anyone who commutes on a subway, and this tote from Caraa is the best we've tested," says Sally Kaplan, Executive Editor Reviews.
It has a hidden shoe compartment. "If you plan to swap your heels for sneakers at any part of the day, the Studio Tote is smartly designed with a hidden compartment you can access from the side. It's totally separate from the rest of the interior so you don't have to worry about dirty soles touching the rest of your stuff." — Ashley Phillips, former style editor, Insider Reviews.
Check out our full review for the nylon Studio Tote here. Plus, check out our article on the best convertible tote backpacks for more convertible options.
Samantha Crozier
This bag is stunning in person. In fact, the top handle combined with the gold hardware and the stylish, structured shape mean that it has the same vibe as the ultra-coveted Hermes Birkin. But the best part of this bag is how versatile it is.
You can use it as a crossbody, a shoulder bag, a top handle purse, or a backpack. It's rare to find a bag as chic and fashionable as this one that's also so functional.
The frequent traveler will also be happy to know that it even has a luggage pass though. Personally, I'm super excited to use this as a carry-on, simply because I've never had a carry-on this sophisticated and modern before.
But the bag does have flaws — chief among them being the fact that a 13-inch MacBook does not fit in the padded sleeve. The description promises that this bag fits up to a 13-inch laptop, and that's true. But I mistakenly assumed that MacBooks were actually 13-inches. As it turns out, my 2020 model MacBook Pro is 13.3 inches, the same size as the current MacBook Air. So there's no current or recent MacBook that would be able to fit in the special sleeve.
My laptop can still fit in widest part of the bag, but it does cause some organizational issues. To avoid this issue altogether, opt for the Plus size version.
Insider
This version of Everlane's New Day Market Tote has everything we've raved about in the original, only this time with an eco-conscious update. Its flexible vegan leather is virtually indistinguishable from genuine leather and has far less of an impact on the environment.
The bag is sustainably made with a Bio-Alloy™ exterior, a leather alternative derived from plant-based proteins. Creating the tote from its Italian-crafted material requires 83% less water compared to its previous leather version.
The interior doesn't have any pockets or compartments, which might make this not ideal for everyone. However, this might be perfect for some people — like those that take bulkier equipment than a laptop to work (would be great for audio equipment, toting crafting supplies, etc.) It also makes the perfect shopping tote.
Read our full review of the original Everlane New Day Market Tote here.
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