Best Designer Handbags for Work

Who says that work bags have to be simple and boring? We don’t mean that you should flaunt an over-the-top bag that makes waves at your workplace. In fact, what we’re suggesting is that you choose an office bag that’s refined and trendy without going overboard. Most women also prefer functionality over style. They compromise one for the other, often thinking that they can’t find a two-in-one feature. But here’s the thing – your office bag can be functional and stylish at the same time.

 

If you’re on the lookout for the best designer handbag for work, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ve meticulously reviewed the best handbags for work that are practical and sophisticated in equal measures.

 

1. Sophia Leather Bucket Bag by Liberty London

The Sophia Leather Bucket Bag is a contemporary bag that boasts an outer layer of pure Spanish leather and an inner layer with a suede lining.  This utterly stylish bag is known for its neat aesthetics. The spacious interior comes with a magnetic closure that provides extra safety and convenience. The interior also has a slip pocket for small (but important) things like ID cards, keys, etc.

 

The matte leather exterior features a smooth handle with a silk scarf. This stunning scarf is interwoven through the gold-hued eyelets of the handle. If you want to change the scarf in every season, you can easily do so. It’s removable and customizable.

 

Pros

• The outer is made from 100% Spanish leather
• The inner part is made from suede lining
• Features a unique, stunning scarf
• Spacious

 

Cons

• Lacks outer zip

 

2. Chalayan Swirl Bag

The Chalayan Swirl Bag is synonymous with sophistication. This classy bag is draped in folded leather, which makes it thick and durable. You can use this bag for years, and it will maintain its quality for all that time. The swirl bag can resist stubborn stains. If the bag does get stained somehow, it can easily be cleaned without ruining the original quality of the bag.

 

The bag is available in three different colors – pure white, intense red, and tan suede. Another benefit of this bag is that the leather finish is soft and lightweight. Some notable features of this refined bag are a fully-lined interior flat pocket, an adjustable shoulder strap, and a magnetic top fastening.

 

Pros

• Durable folded leather
• Adjustable shoulder strap
• Available in three unique colors
• Fully lined interior
• Flat pocket
• Top flap with a magnet fastening

 

Cons

• Pricey

 

3. Mulberry Millie Tote

The Mulberry Millie Tote is a traditional bag with a modern twist. It has a drawstring closure with cute leather tassels – a tribute to traditional shoemaking designs. The exterior is made from soft bovine leather with an utterly soft feel. With use, the leather tends to become even softer. The premium leather protects the bag from dirt and moisture. Plus, it has several useful details. It comes with one main compartment, comfy shoulder leather straps, and a detachable zipped pouch.

 

The heavy-grain bag is available in plenty of neutral and bright colors like deep blue, yellow, rust, and black. Go for the one that goes best with most of your office clothing. We recommend that you buy the bag in a neutral color like black or rust.

 

Pros

• A heavy grain bag
• Made from bovine leather
• Available in a variety of colors
• Has a lot of space
• Traditional yet modern
• Soft and durable

 

Cons

• Expensive

 

4. Burberry Honey Tote

The Burberry Honey Tote is a structured bag with a smooth top bar and triple-stud closure. The outer surface is finely made from calf leather, while the lining is 100% cotton. The top handle is also made from pure leather. With a detachable shoulder strap, you can wear the bag on your shoulder with ease and comfort. The bag has two interior compartments and one interior zip pocket, allowing you to keep important things in an organized fashion.

 

At the top front, the bag embosses the brand’s name in a shiny gold tone. The bag is predominantly available in a lovely honey color, which complements all other colors. Whether you’re wearing a bright outfit to work or dark-colored attire, this bag goes well with everything.  Other than honey, the bag is also available in bright red.

 

Pros

• Designed using excellent quality, pure leather
• Firm handle and detachable shoulder straps
• Interior pocket and compartment

 

Cons

• Limited availability
• Costly

 

5. Michael Kors Women’s Nylon Kelsey Tote (B072M2BK4Y)

If you’re looking for an affordable yet sturdy designer handbag for work, the Michael Kors Nylon Kelsey Tote is a great option. It comes in an intense shade of navy blue, which cleverly hides subtle spills and stains. Plus, it’s handcrafted from an extremely flexible and resilient fabric – nylon. This natural fabric allows heightened wrinkle-resistance and durability.

 

The main compartment of the bag has plenty of space to keep your iPad, notebook, mobile phones, wallet, stationery, etc. Both the interior and exterior surfaces have a flat zipped pocket where tiny essentials can be stored. The top zip closure adds to the overall safety and security of the bag. If you’re looking for a bag that can suit both light and dark work outfits, then this is the one to get. It’s an all-rounder, indeed!

 

Pros

• Made from durable nylon
• Has plenty of space
• One main compartment and two zipped pockets
• Made in the USA
• Affordable

 

Cons

• Doesn’t come in a dust bag

 

Features to Look for When Buying a Designer Handbag for Work

1. Overall Structure and Compartment

Size is not the only thing that matters in an ideal office bag. You should get a bag that allows you to keep all your essentials in an organized fashion. And for that, make sure that the bag you choose is well-structured and has proper compartments. The handbag that you choose should also be designed in such a way that it allows you to have easy access to whatever you need in a certain situation.

 

2. Bag Straps

This is your personal choice. Depending on your own carrying style, you can buy a bag that has handles, shoulder straps, or both. When it comes to big bags, it’s advised to pick one that comes with shoulder straps. This will make it easier for you to carry the bag. Smaller bags that come with straps can be worn in many ways. Plus, they look very chic. However, it’s better to go for a bag that has both – handles and straps.

 

You can wear the bag in a cross-body style with its handles.

 

3. Aesthetics

You can’t switch up your office handbag every day, so get a bag that suits every kind of outfit. Look for a bag that comes in neutral colors – cream, beige, black, rust, etc. If your wardrobe is predominantly black or monochrome, then you can go for a bag in a bright tone.

 

Our Final Thoughts

A designer bag for work is often a huge investment, so it’s advised to consider all the details and features before buying one. While shopping for an office bag, keep your personal needs and style in mind. Once you’re clear and thorough about the kind of designer handbag you want, you’ll make a better choice!