I'm Upgrading My Boring Work Tote—32 Chic Replacements I'm Eyeing

Regardless of your situation, the best work bags for women should have a few things in common, including durability and construction, and of course, they need to actually look good and be cool enough to wear to work and on the weekends. Long gone are the days of carrying an old tote bag that's been taken through the wringer. It's time to treat yourself to a handbag that can take you from the office to your late-night workout class or happy hour with friends.
Whether you're on the hunt for a designer option or something a little less stressful on your wallet, I've got you covered. I've curated a list of 32 work bags for women, and after scouring the internet for hours and hours, I've been able to nail down the best of the best across a wide range of price points, sizes, and styles.
Scroll and shop my edit of the best work totes and shoulder bags at every price point.
In case you haven't heard about Demellier's elegant New York tote, let me put you on. Among our editors, it feels like we have the whole collection, from the classic black tote to beautiful suede options. Although I haven't tested this one out firsthand, just seeing it being lugged around the office by three of our editors confirms everything I need to know. This is the work tote to have if you work in fashion.
The cognac colorway is high up on my list.
This beloved Parisian brand went viral in 2021 for its sophisticated take on leather totes. Try the brand's best-selling safe-for-work option, the Cyme.
No words needed—this It bag speaks for itself.
This classic tote is what associate editor Yusra Siddiqui and I are both wearing to the office at the moment. No complaints!
Another work tote from The Row that minimalists adore.
If you don't have thousands to spend on a work tote, this gorgeous alt from Freja is all you need to be thinking about.
This color!
This adorable under-$150 option is perfect for your Gen Z work bestie.
Simply lovely.
A slouchy tote will ease all my troubles.
This structured Ferragamo tote will live in your wardrobe for years to come.
If you want something fun from the Italian house, this wine cutout tote feels a bit more fresh.
My trusty Everlane Studio Bag hasn't failed me yet.
If you're looking for a work tote bag that doubles as a great travel bag for any extra-long commutes or work conferences, Béis has your back with this croc-effect stunner.
For a no-frills option, the viral Everlane New Day Market Tote should be on your radar.
Switch up your basic work bag with this dreamy Goyard find.
For well under $50, this option is a steal.
The Tokyo Tote from Demellier is another office favorite.
Another low-cost, high-joy croc-effect H&M tote to add to your shopping cart.
I've been eyeing this Khaite tote for quite some time now, and frankly, I might take the plunge.
This "if you know, you know" brand has been making swoon-worthy woven totes for years now. Pick up its viral style that doubles as a trendy work bag and a warm-weather everyday bag.
Can't you tell I have a thing for woven tote bags?
This Zara bag looks rich.
Another work-meets-tropical-getaway bag I love.
Madewell has never done me wrong.
This Who What Wear favorite ranks high on the "best of all time" list for our editors.
After seeing this bag, I think I'm a changed woman.
This bag definitely fits a water bottle, a laptop, an extra pair of comfortable shoes and all of your beauty essentials.
The fun grommets on this bag make it feel 10 times chicer.
My love for an oversize, bottomless tote bag knows no bounds.
I'll leave you with this beauty.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
I Just Got Back From NYC, and Now I Want to Order These 7 Trends From Reformation
My cart is very full.
-
Believe Me—You'll Still Want These 36 Items in 2026 (and '27 and '28)
Timeless with a capital T.
-
Let Me Cure Your Zara Fatigue One Chic Massimo Dutti Find at a Time
From summer-sale deals to brand-new arrivals.
-
A Rich-Looking Closet Is the Goal—31 Amazon Picks That Surprisingly Fit the Bill
Bring on the compliments.
-
The 5 Brands to Shop for Beach Bags That You'll Love and Keep Forever
Trust me on this one.
-
The "Dated" Bag Trend We Left in the '90s Just Showed Up at Miu Miu and on Jennifer Lawrence
A comeback is imminent.
-
There Are Over 500 Tops and Jeans at Zara, But Only These 32 Chic Picks Need Your Attention
I'll bet they'll sell out before July's over.
-
Just Dropped: 29 Fall New Arrivals That'll Be Wardrobe Staples by September
Mentally escape the heat with me.