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A true sign of adulthood is the need for a bigger handbag. As a child, I remember watching my mum reach into her handbag in awe, as she’d pull out literally anything I required at any given moment. It was like a bottomless pit of essentials that also somehow looked stylish.
Only recently have I understood the need for a such a bag. I’m always on-the-go, rushing to and from modelling castings, writing articles from the office or home, catching up with friends for chats and wine and keeping up dance training…. sometimes, all on the same day. Therefore, I need my work bag to carry everything I need for all that, as well as spare menstrual products, pain relief medication, hand sanitiser and an array of other necessities I have grown to need daily.
The hunt for a work handbag is real. We should be investing more money into a good quality handbag, as we’ll get everyday use out of it, plus the better quality the materials, the longer it will last.
Below, we’ve compiled nine work handbags that are functional, affordable and fashion-forward, so that you can have everything you need for your day. Some are on sale right now too — which is a bonus.
Kinnon Amelia Travel + Weekender Bag, $595
This Amelia Travel + Weekender Bag ($595) takes you from work to the weekend to short getaway (depending on how much of an over-packer you are). It’s made with Italian pebble leather that’s sustainably sourced from Italy and features brushed gold hardware and a handy external side zip pocket.
Sans Beast Archive Tote, $269
This Sans Beast Archive Tote, $269 is made from certified recycled fabric, so you can look good knowing you’ve been a little gentler on the planet, too. It’s an ideal size for carrying your laptop and documents to meetings, but also stylish enough to work after work and at the weekends. Choose between the shorter straps and longer, which lets you wear it around your shoulders.
Deadly Ponies Mr Maximese, $879
Deadly Ponies is an eco-conscious New Zealand brand that does bags, footwear and gifts. Handmade with durable Bovine leather, the Deadly Ponies Mr Maximese handbag ($879) will last you for years, so is well worth its price. It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap to change up the bag’s look on you, and has internal zip pockets inside so you can store your phone and other valuables safely.
ARCH Nappy Backpack, $149
This one is for new parents, though it would suit anyone who needs to carry their life around with them during and after work.
The ARCH Nappy Backpack ($149) is designed to go from tote to backpack in seconds, with a super functional strap design. The straps are designed for a quick transition to backpack mode when you need your hands to comfort bub, chase after a toddler or that much-needed coffee.
Stand Studio Leia Shearling Tote, now $509.76, was $254.88
This Stand Studio Leia faux leather-trimmed shearling tote (was $509.76, now $254.88) is very cool-girl. With a shaggy texture and leopard print, it would add volume to your outfit, while also being comfortable to carry. Its versatility is a huge factor in me loving it, with both handles and an over-the-body strap.
Camilla and Marc Dino Tote, $280
This CAMILLA AND MARC Dino Tote ($280) is the definition functional meets fashion. It would go beautifully with a tonal work outfit, whether you’re in white, black or a shade of brown. You’d be able to fit your laptop, packed lunch and a pocket-sized vibrator and take the bag around with you all day.
Stitch & Hide Georgia Mini Tote Bag, $229.95 with 25% off
This Stitch & Hide Georgia Mini Tote Bag ($229.95) is a no-brainer to add to the work wardrobe.
Its ivory colourway would go with any colour or style of work outfit. This, paired with it’s eco-certified leather material, means that it will be long-lasting and versatile. Plus, it can fit any laptop up to a 13″.
Prene ‘The Muse’ Bag, $125 with 25% off
Prene has an amazing reputation for its workwear bags that can double as fashionable accessories. Its ‘The Muse’ Bag ($129) is a staple of the brand’s, moving away from the white detailing and leaning into a sleek all-black vibe.
Hallmarked by perforated neoprene and minimalist design, Prene is known for lightweight, vegan-friendly, machine washable totes, clutches, cross-body and bucket bags in this season’s must-have colours.
Maison de Sabre The Snap Soft Tote, now $233.40, was $389
This Maison de Sabre Snap Soft Tote ($233.40, down from $389) leather bag comes in all sorts of colours, though, among them, caviar black is the most versatile – it’ll go with any outfit.
Helpfully, it’s big enough to fit a laptop.
Mimmi Terra Eco Tote Grigia, $115
This bold workbag, Mimmi Terra’s Eco Tote Grigia ($115), is foldable, so it’s ideal to pack in your suitcase for any work trips or to use as a carry-on. It’s also water-resistant and completely hand-made.
