After working from home for the past year and a half, like many people my company is heading back to the office in the fall. It’ll be part working from home, part in the office. Having a hybrid work life means I’ll be bringing a ton of things back and forth from the office, to my home office, over and over again. One thing that will be more important than ever before is a great workbag. I personally love totes for work, you can just throw everything inside and they’re super easy to use and carry. That being said, I am a bit particular when it comes to work totes, especially since it gets so much use and is a vital part of my day-to-day life. I used a bag just for work pre pandemic, but it’ll be more important than ever so I know I’m bringing everything I’ll need for the whole day.
Here are a few things I look for in a good work tote:
- It must be light weight, but strong
If I’m going to be carrying a ton of stuff in my bag, I don’t want the bag to be heavy to start off with! That why I love looking for lighter weight materials, but I also want something that will be strong and sturdy enough to carry everything! I make sure to check that the handles seem secure (not held together by a tiny stitch), and that the materials of the bag can hold weight like leather, nylon, or any other sturdy fabrication.
- How much can it fit?
There are things that a work tote must be able to fit for me; my work laptop, my planner (I have a LV Large Agenda for size reference), my wallet, snacks (I always always always carry some snacks in my purse), sunglasses, and a makeup bag (for touch ups, advil, Band-Aids, etc, I like to be prepared). That’s not a small amount to carry, so I like to make sure the bag is big enough to fit everything I need on a daily basis! I’m also petite, so it also can’t be too large and overwhelming on my frame. Take the LV Neverfull for example. A great tote, and many people get the GM Size. On me, that it just way too large on my frame and the MM would be as large as I would be willing to go.
- Classic/timeless look
It’s a workbag, not a fashion statement, so I like to stick to classic shapes and silhouettes and neutral or black colors to make sure it goes with everything! I also love wearing printed jackets and blazers, so with more classic/neutral bags I don’t have to worry about clashing.
- Does it close?
I tend to go for totes that have some sort of closure, whether it’s a snap, tie, or zipper. I just like the piece of mind knowing that nothing will fall out easily! If a tote doesn’t have a closure, I usually get a bag insert/organizer that zips, or just throw a scarf or something on top to help keep everything in pace!
- Pockets
It’s such a small little detail, but I love when a bag has pockets. I like having a designated place to put my keys, or my phone, or anything else small like I like having easy access too. If it doesn’t have one it won’t make or break it, but it’s definitely a nice to have!
These are some of my favorite work totes:
- Clare V Simple tote
The large capacity of this bag, combined with the crossbody strap make this such a great bag for work. The stripe detail is super chic and adds an extra touch!
2. Isabel Marant Wardy Tote
This is my favorite go-to tote that I recommend to anyone. I have two (a summer color in raffia, and a grey one for fall). There are two different strap lengths which I love, and it’s just so chic! They also make a style called Wydra which is similar but has thinner handles if you want something a little more feminine. I was able to snag mine at the outlet (I was able to get two for less than the price of one full price), and check online because certain color combos go on sale!!
3. Madewell Transport Tote
It may have a simple design, but that doesn’t make this bag any less chic. Since its made from leather, it will wear in and age nicely as well. If you order it from Madewell, you can also get it personalized with your name in a few different colors!
4. MZ Wallace Metro Tote
This may be the most lightweight tote I’ve ever held. It’s definitely a more casual style bag, but super easy to use and can be packed smaller if needed! Since it weights almost nothing, it’s perfect for carrying a ton of stuff in especially if you have a large laptop. This bag also comes in a few different sizes, and a ton of different colors and prints.
5. Cuyana Large Tote
Known for being Megan Markle’s favorite tote, you know this bag is going to be great. It comes in a small and a large size, and I love how many different color options they have (you can get different color interiors for pops of color!). They also make a zipper version as well!
6. Polene Las Cabas Tote
You’ve seen their satchels all over Instagram, but did you know they make a gorgeous tote as well? I love all the colors this bag comes in, and I love that it was a unique shape. You can also tie the ties to create a different shape making this bag super versatile.
Other popular totes are the LV Never full, Goyard Saint Louis Tote, Masur Gavriel tote, Longchamp le Plaige tote, Tory Burch Elle nylon tote, there are so many options out there, shop around and find the perfect one for you!
Shades and Stripes 
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