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(And maybe a friends tote they left behind that you keepforgettingto give back.)

Image may contain Bag Accessories Handbag Clothing Footwear Sandal and Tote Bag

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.

The Work Tote in beige on light gray background

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.

Laptop Tote Bag in brown on white background

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.

Boat and Tote in white and sage green color way on white background

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.

Backpack in khaki and black color way on dark gray background

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.

Zip Top Transport Tote in black and brown color way on white background

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.

Nylon Shoulder Bag in black on white background

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.

Dakota Neoprene Backpack in muted dark green on white background

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.

Kaya Laptop Backpack in dark forest green on light gray background

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.

Large Le Pliage Tote in black and brown on light gray background

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.

High Coast Totepack in black on white background

And yep, theres a laptop compartment.

This is the best bag Ive ever purchased.

Material:Polyamide |Weight:0.9 lb.

The Sport Tote in soft white and yellow color way on white background

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.

Medium Vittoria Tote Bag in dark brown on gray background

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.

Tall Tote in burgundy on light gray background

Material:Leather |Weight:1.6 lb.

We also love the palette of rich neutrals this stunner comes in.

Material:Leather |Weight:2.1 lb.

Quilted Carryall in pale lilac on gray background

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.

Classic Easy Leather Zip Tote in brown on light gray background

Perry Triple Compartment Leather Tote in black on light gray background

The Studio Bag in soft beige on light gray background

Italian Leather Triple Compartment Shopper Tote in green on gray background

The Brigitte Satchel Oversized Edition in grey on gray background

Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39 in burgundy on gray background

Vegan Leather Slouchy Tote in black on greige background