Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work. Originally published: December 11, 2019, some links updated for 2025.
Let’s talk about the best tote bags for work that you (and your laptop) will love. We all have our vices when it comes to accessories: some love shoes, some love scarves, we love handbags. It’s hard to believe we haven’t touched on this much (except for some fun crowdsourcing on social), but it’s also not that hard to believe, because it’s hard to whittle down to a few favorites. So, we’re sharing eleven (okay, twelve) work totes that are current favorites. They’re stylish, polished and roomy enough to fit a laptop — and there are options for every budget. Let’s keep this short and get into the bags…
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Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
The Senreve Voya Tote comes in six colors. The more time I spend looking at Senreve bags, the closer I get to purchasing, but then I look at the shapes and sizes and colors and really can’t decide (currently loving this and the Maestra in Noir, Aubergine or Merlot). I like the Voya Tote because it easily fits a laptop and has eight other pockets to fit everything else you’re carrying with you.
This Louis Vuitton Wilshire Handbag Monogram Vernis MM is up on Rebag at almost half of retail. It’s in great condition and I am slightly obsessed with this color right now, so the finish was particularly striking while I searched the Totes section on Rebag. Recently spotted another on Farfetch, and another darker violet version on Shopbop & What Goes Around Comes Around. Let me know if you grab it.
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
The Dagne Dover Signature Tote comes in multiple colors and fits virtually everything (I am talking about the Legend size). Bring your laptop, a chic bottle and stow an extra pair of shoes, all in this single bag (I know I’m not the only one with a two-bag minimum when I’m heading to a fitness class after work).
This Nanushka Big Lynne Convertible Leather Tote is not my usual structured tote, but love the lines of this bag. The drawstring closure and shape are decidedly chic but there’s something still so polished about this carryall. The drawstring feature allows you to reshape it, which means you can close the opening for Subway rides and crowded city streets. Similar options can be found by Callista, Stuart Weitzman and Sezane.
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
Love the classic smooth leather Saint Laurent East/West Shopping Tote. Love the clean lines, minimal branding, and the fact tthat the shoulder drop is large enough to accommodate a really chunky jacket or coat, too.
The CREAGH workbag is a clean, modern briefcase featuring a leather lined interior, with a padded laptop sleeve, two accordion sleeves, two small pockets and a metro card pocket. It’s no wonder that Refinery29, Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country count it among their top work totes. The only drawback right now is that the grey and black are sold out until next year, and I’m truly torn between those and the Nude option.
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
A Cuyana tote is another certified crowdpleaser. Their totes are everywhere and it’s impressive how luxe they look, given how much customization is offered. Our favorites are the System Tote and the Classic Easy Tote (with zipper or without).
The Kate Spade Margaux Large Leather Tote is my current work tote. I fit my laptop and much more than I really should be carrying around without issue. I’ve got it in this gorgeous cherrywood color, and I’m very happy with my purchase. If you want a classic tote to hold everything you’ve got, certainly give this a shot.
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
This luxe, asymmetrical Stella Large Tote by Rebecca Minkoff is deceptively large enough to carry everything you need for the day. Currently on sale for $200 off of regular price, now is the time to grab this beauty in that grey or black leather. Also comes with a matching zippered pouch for your small items; chic, professional, but still giving those downtown RM vibes we love.
The Harriet Tote by FEED is something we can truly get behind. Each tote that is priced around $200 will provide 100 meals to children when purchased. Bringing fashion and mindfulness together as you head to the office. This “semi-vegetable tanned leather” tote is part of the Trailblazer colleciton and comes in russet and black.
Keep it MBAchic: best tote bags for work
Another almost cult classic out there is the Everlane New Day Market Tote. At under $200 this bag seriously impresses; it is “made with a Bio-Alloy™ and Bio-PU leather alternative from plant-based proteins and an FSC-certified Lenzing™ viscose backing, it’s expertly crafted to feel like ‘leather’, but with a lower environmental footprint.”
There’s also the Luxe Italian Leather Tote, available in Medium, Large — and even a crossbody — all under $300.
Of course an MBAchic tote was going to be included. It’s one of our new CAPS LOCK totes and a portion of our proceeds will fund MBA scholarships for women! What’s not to love?
It’s a versatile, certified organic cotton tote and carries up to 30 lbs. There’s a large inside pocket and the handles are super comfortable even if you really load it up. Tote this to work/class, to the gym, on the plane, anywhere.
What are you carrying to work? Do you prefer to purchase new or do you buy from resellers like Rebag or The Real Real? Share your favorites and tag us online!
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