5 best women's work bags for back-to-the-office, chosen by a fashion expert

While school has been out for many years for me, every time September rolls around I get major back-to-school vibes. It's a great excuse for us to have a fresh start, update that wardrobe and go into the last few months of the year with some newfound motivation. Finding a new work bag shouldn’t feel like a second job, so I’ve rounded up my top picks for this season. While I want something that complements and elevates my outfits, the practicality must be there. Think a spacious yet organised interior, a wearable colour or pattern, practical straps and a Londoner's dream: zips. I’ve had it with the pretty bag that stores absolutely nothing, the bag that doesn't quite close and the bag that could snap if I add anything else in there. It's time to invest in a bag that makes work days feel easier. Here’s what's on my wishlist for my next work bag. M&S Autograph Suede Tote BagM&S / AutographMade from one of my favourite autumnal materials, this olive suede bag from M&S’ Autograph collection shows us how to take something that's trending – suede – and make it timeless. A trend that began popping up on the runway in Chloé’s autumn/winter 2024 and Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2025 collections and since has been championed by the likes of Bella Hadid and Daisy Edgar-Jones, suede bags have that off duty, lived in yet sleek look. This Autograph bag features zip closures and comes in a wearable but fun olive colour. Cos Trullo Flap BagCosCrafted from soft leather, the Trullo Flap bag from Cos is the epitome of chic but practical. Hold it by the top handle or style it across the body using the detachable, adjustable strap – it’s a great purchase if you’re someone who needs comfort when commuting or spends a large part of your job running around from meeting to meeting. The folded silhouette and metal clasp detail make this bag structurally interesting, yet keep the core look of the bag simple. DeMellier The Stockholm BagDeMellierMost recently spotted at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on Pamela Anderson, DeMellier’s mid-price bags have captured everyone's attention. While Anderson opted for their Midi Brooklyn Tote, I have my eye on The Stockholm. The softly curved bowling-inspired bag features a spacious interior with a dedicated compartment for a laptop or A4 documents and fitted pockets throughout, making it a perfect choice if the idea of just throwing something into your bag makes you feel ill. While the zebra-effect finish is my personal favourite, there are plenty of other materials, from brown suede to a simple but effective black leather. As someone who dresses monochromatically, a bag that pops is my favourite way to elevate my work looks.Charles & Keith Aislin Hobo BagCharles & KeithIf you’re someone who needs their work bag to seamlessly take you from office to after-hours events, Charles & Keith’s Aislin Hobo bag is the perfect piece to add to your wardrobe. The softly structured trapeze silhouette with bold gold-tone accents make this bag have the same effect as putting on jewellery, elevating a look through metal accents. Dinner plans after work? Pop your makeup and perfume into the handily provided inner pouch attached inside the bag. Tory Burch Ella Natuura Drawstring Tote BagTory BurchMade from responsibly-sourced natural rubber and certified recycled content, Tory Burch has perfected the soft and slouchy bag. With both a magnetic and drawstring closure, 2 interior front slit pocket and 1 interior back zipper pocket, this bag feels secure and spacious. My favourite feature of the bag is the drawstrings that allow you to cinch the shape, making the bag feel personalised to each wearer. The logo on the bottom is also perfect for those like me who enjoy quiet luxury and don’t want their bag to feel like it's screaming its brand.