Your work bag is one of the hardest working pieces in your bag collection (no pun intended). So, when it comes to choosing your office arm candy it's important you get it right. Especially with 2025 bringing in some great handbag trends.
If you split your time between working from home and working in the office, you'll need a style that works extra hard. Think an expensive-looking bag that's smart enough for office days, but roomy enough to fit all your essentials in: laptop, charger, travel mug and a host of other office-related paraphernalia that you obviously can't be caught without. We'll tell you from experience: whether you use a small Windows laptop or a large 15-inch MacBook, a tiny shoulder bag simply won’t cut it.
Sadly, chic laptop bags are surprisingly hard to come by so we thought we'd scour the shops for you. These are styles that are not laptop-specific, but will fit the bill. There are a whole host of traditional bags, from elevated totes to oversized shoulder bags that can totally be office appropriate.
If you're worried about your laptop being on show with any of these styles, simply add a dust bag inside, it will act like a closure keeping everything disguised and organised.
Alternatively, if you are dead set on showing off your new (small) designer handbag to the office, you could always double up - a trend that we're seeing more and more on the catwalk.
A chic tote will allow for added practicality and maximum comfort alongside your mini bag or pair with a backpack to keep things completely hands free.
So, without further ado, read on for our carefully curated selection of shoulder bags, totes and backpacks that are the perfect balance of chic and practical for all of your office outfits.
Shop stylish work bags
The Row fans listen up! This bag is still an investment piece but it comes in at a fraction of the Margaux. The timeless brown suede is a keeper and will look beautiful against your Autumn/Winter wardrobe. It's been such a hit for Manu Atelier that it's now on pre-order for November.
If you're looking for a stylish work bag that is functional and chic, Smythson is always a true go-to. This briefcase-style bag features a 2-way zip and detachable strap for extra comfort and preference when carrying.
While the original Loewe Puzzle Tote won't fit most laptops comfortably, the XL Fold version is an ideal size that could easily double up as the perfect airport bag.
For years, quilted bags have topped the most sold lists from the high street to the catwalk, but this M&S shoulder bag is the perfect example of why we're so happy that big bag energy is showing staying power this season. It's stylish and practical - our favourite combo.
If you opt for something simple in colour, why not try a more unusual shape. This banana bag from Polene ticks that box feeling both unique and elegant in equal measure.
Drawing inspiration from a 1950s archival Gucci style, this ultra-chic shoulder bag is a great luxury investment that screams uptown chic.
This is actually our Fashion Writer, Sofia Piza's work bag and probably one of the best she's tested. "I've used this bag to the office and the airport and can confirm it's incredibly comfortable and stylish whilst being fully functional. Bonus points for fitting my 16-inch laptop."
For a personalised style, opt for Zara's shopper bag. Featuring a slouchy silhouette and contrasting stitching, it's a sleek under £50 option that fits a small laptop.
The London-based label has been a true go-to over the years due to its expert craftsmanship and leatherwork. Providing stylish accessories, this leather tote features two internal pockets, detachable key loops, and a sleek front pocket for essentials. Coming in three different colourways, it's a great everyday option.
A perfect transeasonal bag, this Massimo Dutti number in crinkled Nappa leather has a relaxed feel with a touch of sleekness for the office.
Demellier's classic New York bag is a viral success that is rarely in stock. If you, like us, have been eyeing it for a while, now is the perfect time to invest. Coming in an impressive eight colourways, there truly is something out there for everyone.
Slouchy totes are big news right now, and are the perfect shape for disguising your laptop when heading straight to dinner from work. Brown suede is still a huge trend, so now's the time to invest.
Made from orange leather, this ultra-comfortable tote bag is sleek, functional, and the perfect size for all of your office needs, including a 13-inch laptop.
We're big fans of a hardworking bag here at MC and you're sure to get plenty of wear out of this Dragon Diffusion style. Not only will it look great in the office but you can also carry it on holiday and at the weekend too.
While Prada's it-buckle bag unfortunately won't fit large laptops, it's too chic not to include on this list. A true investment piece you'll love for years to come.
There are so many reasons to love this patchwork tote bag from Khaite. The unique contrasting colour combos, the scalloped edging, the subtle animal print - it's perfection in bag form.
Featuring Longchamp's now iconic Le Pliage silhouette, there's nothing this tote bag can't fit.
Just because you're heading too the office, colour doesn't have to be off the cards. This merlot tote from Aspinal will add the perfect punchy hit of colour to dreary early mornings.
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