If you're looking to give corporate chic, one thing is non-negotiable: a reliable, stylish, and functional work tote.
The only question is…
Which bag should you get?
It may sound like a silly question, but looking the part is just as important as playing the part. As shallow as it may seem, the way you present yourself matters.
A work tote is also like your daily companion, carrying everything from your laptop to your emergency snacks, so choosing the right one is a serious decision.
I wanted something with space for inserts and toiletry bags, so I could customize it to whatever day I had ahead: anything from shopping and brunch, to a day at the office.
I also wanted something sleek and timeless, well-made, and versatile, so it would go with any outfit.
I needed my bag to be gorgeous, but also understated. I generally dislike logos and avoid wearing them most of the time. [Note the words “generally” and “most of the time.” These are very important modifiers.]
Narrowing it down…
When shopping for my work bag, I was settled on a tote from the very beginning.
Totes provide the perfect balance between style and function. They can fit a laptop, a cosmetics bag, a travel mug, and more without being too frumpy or burdensome.
I’ve compared some of the more popular work totes on the market, to give you a sense of what’s out there! At the end of the comparison, I will share my personal favorite and the one I ended up purchasing.
The Contenders:
1. Tory Burch Perry Tote
Pros: Sleek design, multiple compartments, structured look
Cons: Can get heavy, don’t love the two-tone tag, and I felt the compartments limit the customizability
Tory Burch is a go-to for polished professionals who want an elegant and practical tote. The Perry Tote offers organization with its structured interior and multiple compartments, but it can feel a bit stiff, and the straps might start to dig into your shoulder after a long day.
2. Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote
Pros: Lightweight, foldable, versatile
Cons: No structure, lacks interior organization, more polished-casual than corporate aesthetic
I have been rocking the Longchamp Le Pliage bag since high school. I purchased my first one in France, and it is still going strong! This bag is a cult favorite, and for good reason. It’s effortlessly chic, lightweight, and water-resistant. But if you’re looking for a structured, professional look this might not be the best pick. Maybe it’s because I have been using the bag for so long as a student, but this bag is more polished-casual vibe than corporate chic to me.
3. Freja Paloma Tote
Pros: Functional size, nicely compartmentalized, gorgeous silhouette and structure, vegan leather
Cons: Compartments are a bit limiting, heavy, reported wear and tear
I did a fair amount of research when shopping for my bag, and I kept reading that this bag wears fairly easily after a short period. I also read that it could be a bit heavy. I was disappointed to hear this because this was one of my favorite silhouettes. The compartments seem well thought out—for example, it can fit a laptop comfortably and has compartments for your phone, glasses, notebooks, etc. The organizational features would be perfect if I wasn’t looking for a bag that could double as a weekend shopping tote.
Find the Freja Paloma Tote here.
And the Winner Is… the YSL Shopping Tote 🏆
This bag strikes the perfect balance between understated luxury, functionality, versatility, and timeless elegance.
It is sleek and professional: The clean lines and smooth, high-quality leather make it a gorgeous addition to any work outfit. The silhouette is simple and flexible enough to be durable but still has enough structure to fit a corporate aesthetic.
It is spacious yet lightweight: Large enough to fit a 15-inch laptop, essentials, and more—without feeling bulky. Its wide-open design leaves so much room for versatility! When I want to use the bag for work, I use structured inserts to help keep things in order. When using the bag as a weekend shopping tote, I tend to lean toward pouches and cosmetic bags to keep things straight. The bag’s lightweight design means I can pack more in it without uncomfortable wear.
It has comfortable straps: Unlike some of its competitors, the YSL tote is comfortable to carry all day. I love the long straps so much! It makes it super easy to open and dig through, and the straps are long enough to comfortably wear the bag over a thick winter jacket. They are also very soft and flexible, so they don’t dig into my shoulders when my tote is extra packed.
It is versatile & durable: Whether you’re heading to a meeting, the airport, going shopping, or doing brunch, this tote elevates any outfit while being built to last. I absolutely love it, and now own a couple of colors!
Final Verdict:
The YSL Shopping Tote is the ultimate work tote for the modern professional who wants luxury, style, elegance and practicality in one chic package. If you’re investing in a work bag that exudes sophistication and functionality, this is the one to get.
I’m curious, which work tote is your go-to?
Get the YSL Shopping Tote here.
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