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If I had to name the most essential accessory for any working woman on the go, it would be a high-quality tote bag: spacious, versatile, and stylish.
It doesn’t matter if you work in an office, work from home, or do your work remotely at a coffee shop, having a high quality work tote is a necessity no matter what business you’re in.
Not only are the best work tote bags highly practical, but the right one can easily bring together an outfit for an effortlessly pulled together look (even when you don’t feel that way!). When shopping for your work tote, you want to look for both style and substance.
Here are some important factors to consider when shopping for the best tote bag for you:
- Size & Space: The best work tote bags should be able to comfortably carry your daily essentials, including your laptop, chargers, wallet, keys, and phone, while also having room for other items you might regularly carry (ie. water bottle, gym clothes, extra shoes, makeup bag, notebook, etc.). Will you also be using it to travel? Make sure to check the dimensions before you buy to make sure the size fits the items you usually carry. Also note that the size may affect your comfort. Depending on how much stuff you’re carrying, you might want to look for a tote with padded straps or multiple ways to carry it.
- Materials & Durability: The best tote bags can handle everyday wear and tear without looking like it. Premium leather and faux leather are highly recommended for work as they stay sturdy while looking sophisticated. Cotton, canvas, nylon, and neoprene totes are also very wear-resistant. Depending on how hard you are on your bags, make sure you get one that is right for your lifestyle (ie. easy to clean, water-resistant, protective metal feet).
- Color: A neutral palette – black, brown, navy, camel, taupe, olive – is always a safe bet for versatility in styling, especially if you plan on going from desk to dinner. (But if you’re all about the color, there are plenty of options!)
- Organization: Do you prefer to purchase a tote organizer and create your own system, or buy one that has several pockets and compartments built in? You’ll find a wide range of options to suit your needs below.
- Style: A classic tote is both fashionable and functional, and you should choose one that speaks to your personal style. The best tote bags for work should be able to move effortlessly from work to weekend, day to night, whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual. The tote bag is a timeless staple, whether you prefer structured or slouchy silhouettes, minimal designs or lots of detail.
Tote bags make great investment pieces for your capsule wardrobe because you will use them. (But that doesn’t mean it needs to break the bank.)
These are the best women’s tote bags for work, including the most stylish options at different price points (from high-quality affordable totes to high-end luxury bags), as well as a mix of materials, textures, colors, and sizes so you can carry everything you need and look your best doing it.
Effortless Essentials: The Best Women’s Tote Bags for Work in 2023
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Under $250 | Under $500 | Under $1000 | Under $2000 |
UNDER $250
Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper
This Quince work tote bag receives rave reviews for its exceptional quality at an unbeatable price point. This affordable luxury work bag is made from 100% top-grain Italian leather and comes in a range of beautiful neutral options with protective metal feet. The tote has plenty of space for your daily essentials (it can hold a 13” laptop) and includes a lined center interior pocket divider with a zipper closure and three interior slip pockets to help you stay organized.
One reviewer said, “Beautiful structured, organized tote. I love everything about it. The size, color, quality all are perfect. I appreciate the structure it has to it, as well as the slip pockets and central zippered section for organization. The center is perfect for files, an iPad or a laptop.”
Madewell The Zip-Top Transport Tote
You can’t go wrong with a Madewell tote bag. If you tend to be hard on your bags during commutes and day-to-day use, their buttery soft leather is durable and gets better with age. Stylish and functional, Madewell’s signature Transport tote bags have a timeless look that is perfect for work in a range of sizes and colors to suit your needs.
I personally love a zipper on my tote bags. The Zip-Top Transport Tote has plenty of space to handle much more than just a laptop (13 3/4″H x 17″W x 6 1/4″D), plus an interior pocket for your phone and keys.
One reviewer wrote, “Great Work Bag. This bag is very functional for carrying everything I need at work. Typically it holds three to four zipper pouches, my water bottle, 5-10 court files, and my laptop. Everything fits and it is still comfortable on my shoulder. Excellent quality, beautifully made.”
More Madewell Transport Totes:
Madewell The Sydney Cutout Tote in Leather
Madewell’s best-selling Sydney tote received a modern, elevated update with stylish cutouts. This beautiful luxe leather tote bag is spacious (11″H x 19″W x 5 1/2″D), so you won’t have to worry about room for your laptop and essentials. You also have the option to wear it two ways, using the top handles or the adjustable (and removable) crossbody strap.
Marcella New York Kelly Tote
If you love a slouchy look, Marcella New York’s Kelly Tote is an elegant choice. Made from luxe Italian leather, this oversized tote has a triangular silhouette with a wide opening, magnetic closure, and a sturdy, flat handle. This unlined modern-style tote offers plenty of space for a 13-inch laptop, water bottle, makeup pouch and more, and is work-appropriate without looking like a traditional “work bag.”
CALPAK Haven Laptop Tote Bag
CALPAK’s Haven Laptop Tote is not only a great day-to-day work bag, but also a top option for travelers. Available in a range of colors, this faux leather tote features a functional removable insert with multiple compartments, including a large pocket for a laptop or ipad (up to 16 inches), three smaller interior pockets, and four exterior pockets to keep you organized. The Haven has a clean minimalist look with durable handles, an adjustable, removable strap, and a practical luggage trolly sleeve to make sure you’re comfortable on the go.
One review reads, “Great work/travel bag. I was looking for a work tote bag upgrade, and so far absolutely love this one! It has plenty of space for my laptop, wallet, notebook, charging cords, etc – everything I need for a day at the office. I love that the interior organizer zips up so I know nothing will fall out. I also love that the interior organizer is removable so this can function as a multi-purpose tote bag as well.”
CALPAK Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
Who can’t use more space? This ultra-light tote can expand up to 4 additional inches. With multiple interior and exterior pockets, a luggage sleeve with a discreet hidden pocket, plus an extra sleeve that holds up to a 15” laptop, you can easily take this expandable bag from work to weekend.
Street Level Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet
Two bags in one with a matching wristlet for under $50. This reversible and spacious faux-leather tote bag gives you double the style options.
MYTAGALONGS Everleigh Large Zippered Weekender
The Everleigh is another excellent option if you’re looking for a sleek work bag that will also double as your go-to travel bag. With a secure zippered closure, this MYTAGALONGS tote lets you carry everything you need. It comes with an interior padded laptop sleeve for 15″ laptop, a keyring strap with removable pouch, an exterior trolley sleeve, and three interior pockets.
Lululemon All Day Essentials Tote Bag 26L
This sporty yet sophisticated tote has the woman on the go in mind, whether you’re headed to work, the gym, or the airport. Made with water repellant fabric, Lululemon’s All Day Essentials Tote offers plenty of space with a structured base that makes it easy to pack up and find what you’re looking for. There are several interior pockets, including one for a laptop (up to 16”) and one for a water bottle. The top zipper closure keeps your possessions secure and comes with a trolly-compatible sleeve, while side handles give you multiple ways to carry your bag to maximize comfort.
If you’re looking for even more room, check out Lululemon’s expandable City Adventurer Tote Bag 27L.
S-ZONE Genuine Leather Tote Bag
Pockets, pockets, and more pockets. This highly-rated, affordable option gives you the most bang for your buck.
Michael Kors Emilia Large Logo Tote Bag
Professional and practical at a reasonable price point, this Michael Kors signature canvas tote has a soft structure, a stylish belted detail, a center zip compartment, and enough space for your laptop and more. It’s also available in pebbled leather.
One reviewer says, “Absolutely love it. The bag is the perfect size, it’s not too big that’s overwhelming. Fits under your arm perfectly. I have to say this is one of my favorite totes that I’ve had so far.”
VeeCollective Medium Quilted Nylon Tote Bag
VeeCollective’s Medium Quilted Nylon Bag mixes geometric and minimalist aesthetics with functionality to bring you this very spacious, super-lightweight, versatile tote bag.
Designed to be used 24/7, the Medium size has plenty of room to fit a 16” laptop and be used for the gym or overnight travel without being bulky (L 22’’ x W 10’’ x H 13’’). Crafted from water-repellent, durable, 100% ripstop nylon with vegan leather detailing, this work tote comes with a designated protective laptop sleeve, large detachable pouch, plenty of pockets, a secure zip top closure, and an extra, adjustable shoulder strap.
Dagne Dover Vida Large Organic Cotton Canvas Tote
Dagne Dover knows how to make beautiful, high-quality, multi-purpose, functional bags. This 100% organic cotton canvas tote has a wipeable interior lining, fits a 16″ laptop in its interior slip pocket, and comes with plenty of practical pockets! This eco-friendly tote has three interior pockets, four exterior pockets, a Neoprene water bottle holder, and can easily go with you from work, to errands, to the gym, to the beach, and more.
Dagne Dover Wade Neoprene Diaper Tote
Whether or not you’re a parent, you’ll love this durable, do-it-all bag. With plenty of pockets, this tote is perfect for professionals who need to stay organized.
This reviewer really says it all: I was hesitant to purchase a “diaper bag” but the great thing is that this tote does not look like one! The laptop sleeve is great, and spacious enough for my 13in MacBook Pro. I also keep two of DD’s small neoprene pouches (that come with the bags), two additional larger cosmetics pouches, a college ruled notebook, Erin Condren planner, small Arlo tech organizer, and the small Hunter toiletry case inside the tote daily. I use EVERY. SINGLE. POCKET. in for something, and they keep me organized, but I don’t feel restricted in how I use them. I love the many “D” rings that the bag has – I use one for my car keys, one for my ID badge and then I hooked my wallet onto one with one of the bungee straps that comes with the bags/pouches. I use the side zipper “wipes” pocket for my laptop charger, AirPods and phone charger, because the zipper provides easy access into the very deep pocket. The other side pocket holds my 26oz Yeti rambler with no problem, even when the bag is packed full. I can’t say enough good things about this bag, so I’ll stop here. The only other thing I will say is, if you are looking to use this bag for work/professional purposes, don’t let the fact that it’s a “diaper bag” stop you. Just buy it. You will NOT regret it!! I’ve gotten so many compliments from classmates as well as professionals.
UNDER $500
Dagne Dover Daily Tote
Made from vegan leather and recycled lining, this large Daily Tote bag is a workhorse. This 100% vegan tote can hold all of your daily work essentials, plus a change of clothes and shoes. With a padded laptop sleeve (up to 16”), multiple pockets, a neoprene water (or wine!) bottle holder, luggage sleeve, and dust bag, you’ll be ready for anything.
Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote
For luxurious, high-quality bags that will last you years without the luxury price point, Cuyana has you covered. Cuyana’s Classic Zipper Easy Tote is the perfect soft unstructured leather bag for work or travel that comes in three different sizes, as well as the option to choose a top zipper. This chic tote comes in a range of beautiful neutrals and seasonal colors that complement any wardrobe.
You can also add the Classic Easy Tote Insert for more organization.
Other Cuyana Easy Tote Variations:
Cuyana Classic Structured Leather Tote
As seen on Jessica Alba and Meghan Markle, you can’t go wrong with this elevated, everyday tote bag.
Cuyana Tote Accessories:
Cuyana System Tote
Cuyana’s System Tote consistently receives rave reviews from customers and fashion editors alike. This Italian pebbled leather tote is designed for work and comes in two sizes (13” and 16”).
You’ll not only have this bag for years to come, but you can personalize it with a monogram, and customize it with a variety of add-ons like the wide Adjustable Strap, Zipper Pouch Insert, and Laptop Pouch featured below.
Cuyana System Tote Add-Ons:
Everlane Luxe Italian Leather Tote
Everlane’s spacious Luxe Italian Leather Tote can hold up to a 15″ laptop plus all of your daily essentials without losing its shape.
ABLE Alem Utility Bag
Made from 100% genuine distressed leather, this spacious carryall is fully lined with a secure zip top closure, three interior pockets, and an external slit pocket.
One reviewer says, “This bag has everything I was looking for in a work bag! The outside pocket is perfect for my phone and keys, and the zipper top adds extra security when in transit. The leather is beautiful and has yet to show a “flaw” even though I’m pretty rough on it. The bag fits my computer, calendars, notebooks, bags of pens and computer accessories. It’s amazing!”
If you prefer an unlined tote, check out their bestselling Mamuye Classic Tote.
Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Leather Tote
Clean and classic, this pebbled leather tote has a timeless workwear style with the function to match. The Perry bag includes a center zipper compartment (fits a 13” laptop), 3 interior slit pockets, protective feet, and long straps to fit comfortably over your shoulder.
Tory Burch Robinson Pebbled Tote
If you’re going for a professional and polished look that can go from corporate to casual, the Robinson Pebbled tote is exactly what you’re looking for.
Coach Willow Medium Pebble Leather Tote
This classic leather tote has been voted the Best Overall Designer Tote by Byrdie and the Best Designer Tote for Work by US Weekly. It’s a timeless bag and I love that the metallic feet on the bottom will help it stay looking that way for years to come.
Not too big, not too small, the Willow is the perfect carry-it-all tote with space for all of your day-to-day essentials. Crafted of polished pebble leather, it features two open pockets, a secure center zip compartment and slender shoulder straps designed with a longer drop to fit comfortably over coats. Finished with Coach’s Signature turnlock closure, it fits up to a 13″ laptop.
ALLSAINTS Anik Spacious Felt Logo Tote Bag
This structured modern tote is as spacious as the name suggests. Crafted from light soft felt, the two adjustable leather handle options make this bag easy to carry, even when it’s full with your laptop and all of your work essentials.
ALLSAINTS Aika Leather Tote Bag
ALLSAINTS is one of my go-to’s when it comes to leather. This luxe minimalist-chic tote is made from buttery soft leather with adjustable dual straps and a 100% organic cotton interior lining. With interior and exterior pockets and a zip closure, this large bag will keep your belongings secure. Easily fitting most laptops, this bag has so much additional room that it will become your go-to for travel too.
M.GEMI The Elena Grande Tote
Handmade by Italian artisans, the Elena Grande Tote is not only stunning, but a steal for the price point. Made from naturally-tumbled calf leather, all edges of the tote are hand painted for a special tone-on-tone accent. The bag is finished with a water-resistant spray and metal feet on the bottom to prevent damage.
Spacious (15.7” wide x 12” tall x 7.8” deep) with two slip pockets and one interior zippered pocket, you’ll be reaching for this M.GEMI bag for years to come.
Fossil Carmen Large Tote
The Fossil Carmen Large Tote receives rave reviews for its style and sturdiness for work and travel. This leather tote has plenty of room (fits a 16” laptop), multiple pockets, and a detachable shoulder strap to make it easy to carry everything you need.
It’s also available in solid black and navy.
Kate Spade Gramercy Large Tote
A sophisticated leather tote with a magnetic snap closure that’s roomy enough to fit an iPhone, iPad, A4 binder, and 13” laptop.
MZ Wallace Large Metro Quatro Tote
When it comes to functionality, MZ Wallace bags really do it all. Designed for year round daily use, you can’t go wrong with any of their tote styles for work (and most come in a wide range of colors). The Large Metro Quatro tote is fabricated from nylon with leather trim, including sturdy padded nylon handles and a detachable, adjustable nylon crossbody strap for comfort. With plenty of organizational pockets (6 interior, 6 exterior), a detachable pouch, a phone pocket, a key ring strap, and an internal sleeve with room for a 13” laptop, you’ll be prepared for wherever the day takes you. A luggage sleeve and natural leather protective feet makes this work tote extra easy to use for travel.
One reviewer wrote, “Best overall work bag and travel tote. Perfect size for any occasion. Fits so much but remains easy to carry and fits under the seat in an airplane. So many useful pockets it’s easy to stay organized. An excellent purchase!”
MZ Wallace Large Box Tote
If you’re looking for something a little more roomy than the Quatro, the Large Box Tote is the one for you. The lightweight nylon Box Tote includes the functional details MZ Wallace is known for: the detachable, adjustable crossbody strap, leather protective feet, key ring strap, detachable pouch, lots of pockets, while also having plenty of room to fit a 15” laptop.
One reviewer said, “Perfect commuter work bag.This bag is the perfect size with the perfect pocket placement. The two large outside pockets are great for laptop and folders/calendar/notepad. The two small outside pockets are great to hold work and personal cell phone, work lanyard, etc. The inside holds everything else: lunch box, water bottle, small crossbody, and the interior pockets hold all the small stuff. A perfect commuter bag.”
UNDER $1000
Marc Jacobs The Leather Large Tote Bag
The Marc Jacobs Tote Bag has become a cult favorite with everyone from Vogue to TikTok influencers singing its praises. At a price point that is significantly lower than other luxury brands, Marc Jacobs doesn’t skimp on the quality. Full grain leather, top zip closure, strong handles, plenty of space (17in L x 6in D x 13in H), and a range of color options, this tote is a true carryall that will fit your daily needs.
If you like this style, but prefer a more understated logo, check out Marc Jacobs’ The Work Tote.
Reformation Oversized Vittoria Tote
Reformation’s Oversized Vittoria Tote puts a luxe twist on the slouchy tote bag. With plenty of room (26″ H x 20″ W x 6″ D 18.5″ strap drop) and its modern minimalist look, you’ll be able to go anywhere with this bag in style. The beautiful leather bow embellished at the shoulder strap adds a unique touch.
Coach 1941 Rae Colorblock Leather Tote Bag
The Coach 1941 Rae is effortless elegance in a tote bag. You’ll want to take this timeless carryall everywhere. This refined tote is constructed with glovetanned leather that is not bulky or too heavy to carry. The sturdy luggage top handles and a detachable shoulder strap will keep you confident in carrying as much as you want comfortably. The spacious interior includes organizational pockets (fits a 13” laptop), and a removable zip pouch that can be used on its own.
This colorblocked bag is available in several beautiful color combinations, or you can grab it in solid black.
One reviewer said, “Working in Style! I wanted a tote that I could travel with that was not bulky or flimsy. This tote has exceeded all expectations!! It carried my laptop (14X9), two folders (8.5×11), my phone, water bottle and I still had room for a small sweater. It was sturdy and I never felt that it was overloaded. I am loving this purchase!”
Mansur Gavriel Everday Soft Leather Tote
This minimalist chic Everyday Soft Leather Tote lives up to its name. Made in Italy and constructed with 100% Italian Tumbled Calfskin, the buttery soft leather and reinforced handles will stand the test of time. This sophisticated, spacious bag can easily fit a 16” laptop and more (and comes with a detachable pouch for additional storage). You can get it in a selection of gorgeous neutral tones.
One reviewer commented, “PERFECT! This tote is beautiful, exactly what I was looking for. It is the perfect everyday bag that is versatile enough to be used as a work bag and takes me into the evening. There is enough space for everything I need and it is very well made. The bag itself is super light so it’s a pleasure to carry and I receive compliments often! My previous Mansur Gavriel bag lasted 8 years (I still use it) and plan to have this one indefinitely as well.”
Mansur Gavriel Large Tote
If you want something more structured, but equally as luxe, the Mansur Gavriel Large Tote made from 100% Italian Vegetable Tanned Leather is the roomiest version of their classic tote style.
MCM Liz Reversible Large Tote Bag
If you love the look (and size!) of the LV Neverfull, you’ll want to check out MCM’s Liz Reversible Shopper. Crafted in MCM’s signature coated canvas with leather top handles and detailing, this bag can give you two different styles in one with its reversible design (a heritage logo print on one side to an optic-effect, modified gingham checks on the other).
Not only is there plenty of room in this extra-large bag for your work essentials (7.9 x 18.1 x 13.0 inches), but there is also a removable zip pouch that can be used as a separate purse or wristlet.
Yuzefi Mochi Large Suede and Leather Shoulder BagMochi Large Suede and Leather Shoulder Bag
More Yuzefi Mochi Totes:
Altuzarra Park Place Large Caged Leather Tote Bag
Well-known for their luxury leather goods, British brand Mulberry crafted this timeless tote to be both posh and practical. Mulberry’s understated style is on-trend right now with the popularity of the “quiet luxury” aesthetic. The Bayswater tote is classic and minimal, but not lacking high-quality details. I love the Postman’s Lock hardware for additional security and the removable pocket that can be used to hold your valuables.
Mulberry Bayswater Leather Tote
DeMellier’s handbags have been trending with fashion circles for their clean, minimalist, luxury styles that won’t break the bank. All of their pieces are ethically made in trusted factories in Spain and Italy using the finest sustainably sourced materials.
If you’re looking for an elegant work bag, DeMellier’s New York Tote is one of my favorites to go from day to night. Crafted from soft grained leather, this tote bag has a modern, sophisticated silhouette, magnetic closure, luxe gold belted detail, and protective metal feet. With plenty of space, the cotton-lined interior also has a zip pocket and slip pocket that can easily hold your essentials and a 13” laptop.
DeMellier New York Calf Leather Tote Bag
DeMellier New York Tote Variations:
UNDER $2000
Luxury Designer Totes:
