For the working woman on the go, there’s no better fashion accessory than a chic carryall.
And with more demands and less time, we need a bag that does more than simply get us from point A to point B. It’s important to keep things organized and easy to access, and with designers working to fuse flair with function, stylish options for work bags abound. These nine bags are perfect for the workday, with comfortable straps, structured shapes and, of course, pockets, pockets, pockets!
You may be relegated to a boring suit at work, but you can pair your sensible pumps with a stylish bag to prepare you to seize the day.
The bowling bag gets an upgrade with a water-resistant nylon exterior and a wealth of interior and exterior pockets—including laptop and tablet sleeves, as well as a separate side pocket for shoes—making this bag the perfect companion for an entire day, from gym to office. And with an adjustment sleeve to slip it over suitcase handles, it easily transitions to a travel bag, too. ($295, Lo & Sons, also available in the smaller O.M.G. size)
J. McLaughlin The Weekender Tote
Crafted of lightweight, pebble-grained leather, this eye-catching tote can hold all of your day’s needs. With a zip closure and a detachable zip pouch, you’ll feel comfortable dashing off with your bag in tow.($428, J. McLaughlin, 567 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, 847-784-1730 or 261 Market Square, Lake Forest, 224-544-5399, also available in Backyard Blue)
Kate Spade 2 Park Avenue Beau Bag
This sassy handbag has quickly become part of Kate Spade New York’s signature collection. With a subtle front bow pocket and abundant interior space, this colorful satchel can accommodate all of your needs and give your wardrobe a much-needed pop. ($498, Kate Spade New York, 2171 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, 847-559-2301)
This well-structured leather satchel is all about options. With both comfortable handles and a long shoulder strap and a color palette that transitions well from season to season, it’s the perfect year-round accessory. It’s professional without feeling stuffy and sure to impress. ($325, J. Crew, 2170 Northbrook Ct., Northbrook, 847-564-2739; 4999 Old Orchard, Skokie, 847-675-0109)
There is a reason—or maybe a dozen—the Longchamp Le Pliage has remained the classic work bag. With a sturdy architectural construction and a full rainbow of colors, it is the durable bag for the girl on the go. And with the gorgeous new lambskin and goatskin version, you can distinguish yourself from the post-college girls clutching their whole lives in its depth. And it still folds into itself! ($735, Longchamp, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, 847-233-9004; Nordstrom, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847-677-2121)
Tory Burch Robinson Double Zip Tote
This tote, made from quality Italian leather, is a real looker. It has pockets galore, including a separate phone slot and a zip pocket, allowing you to keep all of your gadgets, documents and miscellaneous items organized in your cavernous bag. ($575, Nordstrom, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, 847-677-2121; Tory Burch, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, 847-233-9286)
The Rubina Tote is perfect for the more professionally fashion-forward. Crafted of exotic snake embossed leather, this carryall is soft, spacious and gorgeously shiny. Its depth leaves room for a laptop, small cosmetic case and paperwork, while its edgy design is guaranteed to jazz up any staid business casual attire.($198, Mattie M, 990 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 847-784-8701)
Eschew the traditional briefcase with a softer, more feminine hobo bag. The exterior boasts a large pocket for easy access, while the interior is roomy enough for all of the essentials. It’s a classic design that won’t out you as a fashionista to your more resigned colleagues. ($245, Willow Boutique, 1060 Gage St., Winnetka, 847-386-6869)
If ever there were a perfect bag designed for the woman on the go, it’s the Michael Kors Jet Set Tote. Designed in saffiano leather with satin lining, this tote features multipurpose inner pockets, including a zip-top laptop compartment, as well as pockets for both a phone and a tablet, all Apple compatible. The top handles fit snugly on the shoulder for a comfortable, versatile all-day bag. ($298, Michael Kors, 4999 Old Orchard, Skokie, 847-673-5600; also available through Apple)
