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(And maybe a friends tote they left behind that you keepforgettingto give back.)
Original images courtesy of SELF staffers Sarah Felbin and Lauren Alberti, Laneen Wells
But none of these will cut it when it comes to a work bag.
Shop our chic, easy-to-carry, envy-of-the-office favorites below.
While we love a good shoulder bag, they arent as great for commuting.
Size
When it comes to work bags, bigger probably isnt better.
(Plus, itll get even heavier when you fill it.)
The Work Tote was a perfect addition to my lineup.
Product specs
Material:Vegan leather |Weight:2.75 lb.
But heres the kicker: Its a fraction of the price.
The quality is excellent and so is the price, one shopper says.
I love it more day by day.
Material:Faux leather |Weight:2.75 lb.
|Dimensions:16.5 x 5.5 x 12 inches |Colors:29 |Pockets:5
Best Canvas: L.L.
Bean Boat and Tote
L.L.Bean
Boat and Tote
L.L.
Bean
If you grew up wearing one of those monogrammed L.L.Bean backpacks to school (guilty!
), then the Boat Tote will bring all the nostalgia.
The straps are super sturdy, even though they look like theyre on the thinner side.
They don’t chafe or irritate my armpits, and my bag still feels super supported on my back.
Material:Polyester |Weight:2.5 lb.
Material:Leather |Weight:1.1 lb.
Plus, its size and materials make it super lightweight (less than a pound!
), so youre not starting out with an achy shoulder before you even fill it up.
Material:Nylon |Weight:0.5 lb.
It doesnt collapse on itself.
I also love the material because its water-resistant and easy to wipe clean, she says.
The included shoe bag is a nice touch too.
Material:Neoprene |Weight:2.1 lb.
I love the square, chic shape, and it fits a lot without being too large.
Material:Faux leather |Weight:3 lb.
Plus, it’s lightweight, so I can really load it up without causing serious shoulder strain.
Material:Nylon and leather |Weight:0.8 lb.
And yep, theres a laptop compartment.
This is the best bag Ive ever purchased.
Material:Polyamide |Weight:0.9 lb.
It also easily transitions between a tote and backpack, thanks to its removable straps.
While itstechnicallya gym bag, the minimal design would look right at home in an office or coffeeshop.
Keep readingweve got other great options to choose from, including more SELF staff picks, below.
A subtle exterior pocket allows you to keep your phone and sunglasses handy on your commute.
Material:Vegan leather |Weight:1.5 lb.
We (and hundreds of Free People shoppers) recommend trying this sporty, quilted bag.
Material:Leather |Weight:1.6 lb.
We also love the palette of rich neutrals this stunner comes in.
Material:Leather |Weight:2.1 lb.
Still, the standout feature is how good itll look with your office fits.
Its a great pick for shorter commutes or lighter loadswe just wouldnt recommend it for serious schlepping.