For me, one of the pros of working from home these last few years has been not having to tote around my laptop and other workplace essentials in a bag that could single-handedly ruin even the best of outfits. Three years ago, I had more canvas tote bags than I’d ever like to admit as well as countless unappealing laptop bags. Now, I barely have any. But with life getting closer and closer to normalcy and the need to carry around more than just my wallet and phone returning, I came to the realization recently that I might have to actually start carrying a laptop bag again. But this time, I’m not settling.
To my surprise, though, my research process wasn’t as dismal as I’d predicted it would be. In fact, it took me no time at all to realize that rather than hating laptop bags with every fiber of my being, I’m now drawn to them for more than just lugging my work computer around. Apparently, it took a pandemic to get designers to put the mini-bag trend aside and focus on bigger, utility-focused accessories. Prada, Louis Vuitton, Bottega Veneta, Saint Laurent—all of the top handbag brands in fashion are no longer designing necklace bags and wristlets that hardly fit a single credit card, let alone a laptop. Rather, many are debuting chic oversize shoulder bags, satchels, and totes for all our essentials, including electronics of all sizes.
Below, see all the designer laptop bags on my work (and play) wish list. If your response to them is anything like mine was, prepare to be shocked in a good way.
Briefcases aren’t just for suit-and-tie–clad dads anymore. Thanks to Prada’s S/S 22 selection, they’re for fashion people too.
Simple doesn’t have to mean boring. This Medea tote is more than enough proof of that.
Leave it to Charles & Keith to make an under-$90 commuter bag look like a timeless designer staple.
These Marc Jacobs totes are all over the internet.
Ever since Prada rereleased its iconic 1995 top-handle bags, I’ve wanted one desperately. Something about the practical size and shape of it was instantly alluring, especially after years of teeny-tiny handbags reigning supreme in fashion.
You’ll have this bag for decades. I’m sure of it.
This color has a hold on me this season.
I just saw this oversize satchel on the shelf at Nordstrom and immediately added it to my workwear wish list.
If you love a shoulder bag as much as I do, you’ll be happy to hear that many brands are now supersizing their shoulder-bag offerings, finally making it possible to carry just one handbag that will snugly fit everything from your keys to your laptop. No extra canvas tote bag necessary.
This bag fits a whole lot more than you’d expect.
Coperni is responsible for every It bag this season. And yes, I’m talking about the glass devil-horned handbag carried by Kylie Jenner.
The Falabella bag has long been a favorite for chic commuters. But with edgier aesthetics returning to fashion’s good graces, it’s about to receive a much-deserved boost in popularity.
Prada wasn’t the only brand to debut office-ready accessories on the runway of late. At its F/W 22 show, Louis Vuitton, too, showcased a slew of XL and laptop-friendly handbags, each one more enticing than the last.
A laptop bag with built-in AirPod and iPhone compartments? Genius.
Okay, this bag isn’t exactly new, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be everywhere in 2022. Louis Vuitton’s Alma bag is ripe for a comeback. Get it on the secondhand market while the prices are still semi-affordable.
This bag is the epitome of low-key luxury.
One swipe through any big-time influencer’s Instagram feed and you’ll find an Hermès bag, be it a Kelly or a Birkin. The styles, which have always been sought after, are bigger than ever right now, in part fueled by the growing interest in larger bags that fit all our needs.
Take my word for it: Flap bags are going to be one of the, if not the, most desired bag styles of the year.
If you ask me, this tote looks way pricier than $139. I won’t tell if you won’t.
My co-worker Anna already owns this and gave it her official stamp of approval.
I love a structured tote just as much as the next person, but Chanel’s new oversize shoulder bag, which has almost no structure at all, is quickly growing on me.
The vintage market is chock-full of Chanel totes just waiting to become your next everyday laptop bag.
The satchel-to-backpack trick is the oldest in the commuter-bag book.
I recently sent this bag to my mom to buy, but now, I’m thinking I might want one too.
Bottega Veneta’s ubiquitous quilted bags have officially become commuter friendly thanks to Matthieu Blazy, the brand’s new creative director, who sent oversize flap bags down the runway at his debut show in Milan.
This bag will fit anything and everything—and then some more.
Where chic and practical meet.
Now this is a work of art, one that will fit a lot more than you think.
