20 Work Totes That Will Help You to Get the Job Done

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If I know one thing about myself, it’s that I am a girl on-the-go. My Monday through Friday is filled morning till night and the one thing that allows me to get from point A to (sometimes) Z is my trust in a stylish and durable work tote that will carry all my daily essentials. During the work week you won’t catch me with just a classic handbag as duty calls for me to be running around the city with a laptop, cell phone, notebook, wallet, keys, beauty essentials, portable charger (at minimum) and sometimes even workout attire, a water bottle, snacks or a sweater. I guess you could say I don’t travel light, but something tells me, there are a lot of you urbanites that can relate to my plight when schlepping throughout the city.

When looking for a good work tote, I want something that is equal parts functional and stylish. I prioritize a bag with a thoughtful design, so I look for good materials for durability (such as leather or canvas), long shoulder straps for comfortability (pro tip: make sure there is room for your arms with jackets or sweaters on), zippers and pockets for functionality and silhouette/color for outfit versatility. A sophisticated, aesthetically pleasing work tote has a lot of power. It has the ability to carry not only everything you need to face your day, but also can elevate every outfit that you might be wearing from a sporty athleisure look (like Princess Diana), or a sleek suiting ensemble fit for that C-level boardroom you belong in.

Whether you are prioritizing design, functionality or looking for a balance of both, we have rounded up some of our favorite work totes that will hold everything you need to get you through your work day and beyond!

Large Dior Book Tote

As picked by our Editor in Chief, Stellene Volandes, this bag certainly catches the eye. With delicate embroidery detailing, this Dior tote takes a regular canvas tote to a whole new level. This tote will hold all your work essentials including (but not limited to): a 15 inch computer, a pouch, a phone, a wallet, lipstick, sunglasses. "This has been my favorite tote for years, the sleek exterior is so chic and it holds all of my belongings for running around NYC." If the EIC says so, then it is so!

Material: Embroidered Canvas

Color: Beige and Black Toile de Jouy Soleil Embroidery

Dimensions: 16.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches

Handle Length: 16.5 inches

Extra-Large Bellport Canvas Tote Bag

Dania Lucero Oritz, our Fashion & Accessories Director, shares her favorite work tote by Polo Ralph Lauren. She says "this bag can carry my gym clothes, laptop, everything I would need in a day. It is so versatile; it can also double as a weekender bag." Understated and well-made, this tote elevates your regular old canvas tote. With leather detailing and straps, this bag can be carried with ease and comfort.

Material: Cotton, Leather

Color: Natural

Dimensions: 27.5 x 22 x 11.25 inches

Handle Length: 8 inches

Park Textured-Leather Tote

Everyone always raves about the little black dress, but everyone also needs a big black tote as a closet staple. Picked by our Fashion Assistant, Hannah Morrolf, this bag from The Row is an office non negotiable. Chic, high-quality, and it will match any outfit.

Material: Textured Leather

Color: Black

Dimensions: 15 x 13.6 x 16.9 inches

Handle Length: 9.4 inches

Traversée Large Leather and Webbing-Trimmed Canvas Tote

Our Editor Leena Kim raves about her dream work tote, saying: “I have been on the hunt for the perfect work tote for years and have finally found it in Rue de Verneuil. It’s sturdy enough to fit my laptop and notebooks for in-office days, and still chic enough to carry around as an off-duty weekend bag. I especially love the versatile touch of the snap closures at the ends, which means I can toggle between purse and tote depending on my needs—and mood.”

Material: Canvas, Leather

Color: Beige

Dimensions: 13.4 x 24 x 8.7 inches

Handle Length: 7.9 inches

Rodeo Large Handbag

Perhaps my favorite on this list, as it's giving a lived in Birkin look (think MaryKate and Ashley Olsen), this Balenciaga bag is a great investment piece. Featuring, a removable leather key holder with two split rings, turn lock closure, and four brass feet, the devil is in the details and craftsmanship of this tote. Add a bit of edge to your work outfit while being able to carry all of your in and out of office essentials. Consider it on my wishlist!

Material: Leather

Color: Black

Dimensions: 15.7 x 11.8 x 5.1 inches

Handle Length: 9 inches

Large Leather Tote Bag

This leather bag is elegant and understated. The rich caramel color is sophisticated and pairs with any outfit. The metal hardware and magnetic closure are practical and an ode to the brand's craftsmanship. A great shoulder bag, go straight from work to wherever you plans lead you next.

Material: Leather

Color: Caramel

Dimensions: 11 x 18.9 x 5.9 inches

Handle Length: 8.6 inches

Incognito Cabas Large Suede Tote

A rich, gorgeous navy color, this Métier bag catches the eye while carrying all of your essentials. The external magnetic pockets and internal compartments make this shoulder bag the perfect combination of form and functionality. Wear yours with the perfect white button down and jeans for a preppy yet comfortable look that you can work all day in.

Material: Leather

Color: Navy

Dimensions: 9.1 x 9.8 x 5.1 inches

Handle Length: 4.3 inches

Soft Margaux 17 Bag in Leather

A distinguishing feature of the Margaux Bag is its silhouette, which is both structured and supple. The Row's commitment to quality never falters-- this tote made with 100% leather, featuring belted gusseted side panels and a spacious lined interior with pockets. The soft brown color is delicate and never goes out of style; we couldn't love this bag more.

Material: Leather

Color: Cuir

Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 1o inches

Folded Leather-Trimmed Canvas Tote

Stow a laptop, a water bottle, even a light sweater for that chilly office AC. This tote features an adjustable strap with a gold buckle to maximize ease while still remaining stylish. Functional and dignified, this Jil Sander bag is a great rendition of a classic canvas tote.

Material: Canvas, Leather

Color: Neutral

Dimensions: 14.4 x 18.5 x 9.4 inches

Tondo Large Textured-Leather Tote

This bag matches just about everything! Use the internal pocket to store your smaller items, while keeping a laptop, planner, and any other work essentials in the larger pocket. A magnet fastening will make sure all of your goods stay safe.

Material: Leather

Color: Black

Dimensions: 12.8 x 19.3 x 7.9 inches

Handle Length: 7.7inches

Paloma Tote Latte

This bag means business! Well structured, with three zippered compartments, and multiple interior pockets this bag will truly carry anything you could need in and out of the office.

One shopper says: " The vegan leather quality looks beautiful, the color is perfect, and I love how simple the shape is, while still being interesting. The 3-main pockets seem to keep it organized, without being overtly so."

Material: Vegan Ultra fiber Leather

Color: Latte

Dimensions: 15 x 16 x 11 inches

Handle Length: 10.5 inches

Victoria Small Leather Tote Bag

Victoria Beckham's take on the modern woman's work bag can do no wrong. An updated take on a classic brief case, with a zippered top, internal pocket, stitched detailing, and a deep burgundy leather, going to work has never looked so good. A longer strap, this bag sits comfortably on the shoulder when going to and from the office.

Material: Leather

Color: Burgundy

Dimensions: 11.5 x 15.5 x 6.5 inches

Handle Length: 14 inches

Large Suede Tote Bag

This suede shopper tote puts a Cucinelli spin on an everyday bag. This tote features a removable internal zipper pouch to keep all your smaller items tucked away safely and neatly, for easy access at the office or when on the go. When the bag is fastened, make use of the internal ties on the sides to make the bag more compact. Be the talk of the office with this luxe tote.

Material: Leather

Color: Syrup

Dimensions: 10 x 17.5 x 7.5 inches

Handle Length: 22 inches

XXL Puzzle Fold Jacquard Tote Bag

Loewe adds their own flare to a work tote with architectural panels engineered to fold completely flat. Made with cotton and linen fabric, this tote is lightweight and easily transportable, making it perfect as an everyday bag.

Material: Fabric

Color: Ecru

Dimensions: 14 x 26 x 14.5 inches

Handle Length: 22.5 inches

Voyou Medium Suede Tote Bag

An ideal sophisticated, neutral tote, this bag will hold all of your essentials. We love the hardware detailing, which doubles as a way to close the bag. Pair with a trusty white button down, jeans, your favorite belt, work shoes, and you have the recipe for an office outfit!

One shopper says: "Great, professional tote! I bought this for work and it is perfect. Big enough to hold everything. Not heavy and great accents."

Material: Leather

Color: Hazel

Dimensions: 15.5 x 12.5 x 5 inches

Handle Length: 22.5 inches

Belted Suede Tote Bag

Featuring a slouchy, bucket-like silhouette with a flat base, and unstructured sides, this tote is truly a carry all. Throw anything you could need for the office in here; it will be sure to fit! Featuring an adjustable strap, which emulates the brand’s signature trouser belt, this bag is designed to maximize comfort on your daily commute.

Material: Leather

Color: Tan

Dimensions: 15 x 20.5 x 11 inches

Handle Length: 14 inches

Carry Everything Large Canvas Tote

This Loro Piana canvas and leather "carry everything" tote has its name for a reason. It can carry well, everything. This tote will boost your tote game exponentially. Understated and sturdy, splurge on a everyday essential. Trust us, you won't regret it.

Material: Canvas, Leather

Color: Natural

Dimensions: 10.5 x 15.5 x 8.5 inches

Handle Length: 22 inches

Sac De Jour Medium Leather Tote Bag

This Saint Laurent signature makes the ideal weekday tote. Well structured and featuring an adjustable shoulder strap for crossbody wear, you will sport this bag daily as well as far beyond the office. To level up this tote, add a bag charm or silk scarf and you have yourself a whole new look! The versatility is endless with this timeless and practical tote.

One shopper says: "⁦It’s large & holds all the things I need for work & mom life. Color is beautiful.⁩"

Material: Leather

Color: Sea Salt

Dimensions: 11 x 14.5 x 7.5 inches

Handle Length: 12 inches

Medium Tulip Leather Tote Bag

This tote is refined and roomy. This uniquely shaped tote, inspired by minimalist sculpture and organic shapes in nature, makes a refined statement.

Material: Leather

Color: Brown

Dimensions: 11 x 19 x 5.9 inches

Handle Length: 9.4 inches

Large Sepal Distressed Leather Tote Bag

Made using vegetable-tanned leather by Spanish artisans, a tanning method that avoids the use of harmful chemicals, the bag is not only fashionable but consciously made. Look good and feel good when sporting this tote at the office. We love the structured leather detailing which adds some personality to a typical leather tote.

Material: Leather

Color: Light Tan

Dimensions: 12.6 x 21.3 x 7.9 inches

Handle Length: 10.2 inches

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