best-work-bags
Best work bags. Pictured: Elaine Welteroth on September 12, 2023, in New York City. (Photo by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)

As we return to work, tirelessly juggling multiple bags along our office commute, it’s time to reevaluate our choices. As much as schlepping a varied myriad of tote bags full of gym gear, groceries, work supplies, and an emergency change of shoes feels unavoidable, the solution to office-style challenges is actually all around us.

Put simply, we are living in a golden era of really big bags. Where once we had to choose between fashion and function, the market is now steeped in spacious options that require zero compromises and consolidate all those random canvas tote bags. In fact, recent years have seen silhouettes like The Row’s Margaux, Miu Miu’s Aventure, and Chanel’s 22 Hobo revamp the humble tote with a sophisticated polish that can seamlessly integrate into any office wardrobe. 2026 is proving no different, with our trend radars projecting a sustained love for all things XXL. And besides, once you’ve gotten used to the peace of travelling with half your earthly possessions at your disposal, it’s hard to go back.

But even as the growing obsession with roomy bags has grown—and with it, our willingness to step away from teeny, impractical evening bags—the age-old issue of too many options rears its head again.

Ready as always to scroll through pages and pages of shopping websites so that you don’t have to, we’ve found twelve options for work bags that promise to carry all your baggage.

Best work bags for 2026

 

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BALENCIAGA BEL AIR HOBO BAG, DHS15,000 SHOP NOW

When investing in a designer handbag, so many opt for the shiny evening iterations, but if you ask us, a choice like Balenciaga’s Bel Air Hobo bag is the ideal investment. With its roomy interiors, luxurious finishes, and practical design, its fresh vertical silhouette is perfect for lugging all your daily needs in style.

YU MEI TERESA TOTE, DHS3,300 (APPROX) SHOP NOW

The ultimate real-life Mary Poppins bag is this tote from New Zealand label Yu Mei. If you’re concerned about finding your keys, the interior features a zip-up hanging pocket, and the brand also offers purchasable pouches that fit neatly inside to compartmentalise your things. We particularly love this deep ‘Ink’ shade.

Toteme Suede Tote Bag, Dhs4,400 (Approx) SHOP NOW

Channel Scandi-cool minimalism with this delectable tote by Toteme. Big enough to fit all your working essentials while still earning the status of the chicest bag in your wardrobe, it’s a bulletproof investment.

VESTIRSI SCARLETT 2.0 LEATHER HOBO BAG, DHS1,050 SHOP NOW

For a versatile option that doesn’t break the bank, Vestirsi’s Sienna shoulder bag is a no-brainer. Boasting a slouchy fit, comfortable strap and magnetic closure, this chic handmade silhouette fits it all and comes in multiple colourways and material finishes—all in plush 100% Italian leather.

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PRADA ROUTE LARGE TOTE, DHS13,000 SHOP NOW

Trust Miuccia Prada to bring us the perfect everyday bag. Its fuss-free silhouette and function-forward design feature a printed logo (so you won’t have to worry about scratched hardware during your commute), ample space, front compartments for essentials, and a canvas lining that can withstand whatever you throw into it.

CHANEL 22 TOTE, DHS25,280 SHOP NOW

If you’re one of the lucky few who can get away with a statement tote in your office, we implore you to lean into this freedom. Not only does this quilted leather ’22’ offer a shiny finish to any outfit, but the bag’s drawstring silhouette and multi-wear chain strap ensure a practical (and stylish) commute.

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ST AGNI BAGU WOVEN TOTE, DHS1,650 SHOP NOW

The perfect work bag doesn’t have to be dull to go with everything. This St Agni tote comes in an eye-catching woven print, bringing texture that won’t clash with outfits.

ZARA LEATHER SPLIT SUEDE MAXI SHOPPER BAG, DHS799 SHOP NOW

There’s not much you won’t be able to fit into this one. From your laptop, water bottle, and diary to your current book and, really, anything else you should wish to transport, this carry-all can indeed carry it all, and its chic exterior will conceal any chaos inside.

best-work-bags
Loewe Puzzle Fold Medium leather tote bag, dHS7,850 SHOP NOW

Lightweight and immaculately crafted, this Loewe bag offers all the functionality of a generously sized tote, all with the polish and structural intrigue of the House’s signature Puzzle design.