I’m in the market for a new work bag. I want a tote that’s big enough to hold a laptop. I want leather. And I want a lighter color that I can use in any season. Let’s see what I found.
Billionaire Oligarch Who No One Voted For
Mulberry Bayswater Tote ($1,195)
Elected Official
Cuyana Classic Zipper Tote ($298)
Legislative Aide
Quince Leather Compartment Tote ($149)
Front Desk
Madison West Clean Tote Bag ($55)
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Thank you! I’ve been eyeing some Cuyana totes… thoughts from those who have one?
I have their weekender and a tote. The leather quality is fabulous. The weight is on the heavier side. I love that they have the zipper now. If you need lots of organization, try the System tote.
I just got the Cuyanaa 16″ System tote and love it. Agree that it is heavier, but it does the job! I did get the added accessories but have not used them all yet.
Big cuyana fan here! I had a tote that was my pre-covid workhorse bag- Absolutely loved it! I am remote now but travel a fair amount for work and have swapped over to their 16 inch backpack. To me that is the best of both worlds, because it has a nice shoulder strap too. Also have a couple cosmetic/organizational cases that I use regularly. Definitely on the more expensive side but I feel like the quality is worth the cost!
My beef with these (and it feels like everything these days) is that the straps are so narrow for such a large bag that they just aren’t comfortable to hold in the hand or carry on the shoulder. Only the Madison West bag looks like one I could tolerate carrying a laptop, etc around in. Am I alone in my search? I got this lovely Dooney & Burke crossbody a few weeks ago that I love, but even that only has a 3/4” strap and I swear, it just isn’t wide enough for bags that are carrying more than a phone and keys.
I agree! The thinner straps may look better, but they are less comfortable for the wearer.
SO many thoughts, as I have been looking for the perfect work tote for 2 years now… First, a comment on the straps. I need straps that lay flat when the bag is open. I hate the “floppy” look when the bag is open and I’m taking things out / putting things in. I’m not spending $$$ on a bag for it to look unprofessional as soon as I need to put it down or take out my laptop.
Second – my bag needs a quick access pocket for my phone. I don’t care if it’s inside or outside, but it is necessary. I personally also like a lot of internal organization, but we all need quick access to our phones (either while the bag is on my shoulder or next to me on a seat or under a table).
Anyone know of any work-appropriate bags that meet these requirements? Thanks!
Tumi’s Voyageur collection has been my go-to for work bags for a decade now. Well-placed internal/external organization, comfortable straps, zippers, and room for laptop, tablet, and a stack of papers.
“ Billionaire Oligarch Who No One Voted For” I’m dead. Absolutely on the floor dead. Thank you for bringing such a laugh into my day!
Me too! It’s *chefs kiss*
The Mulberry tote is actually well made and structured. I recommend you purchase at their outlet store for 25% discount – you’re welcome!