STYLING

THE WORK BAGS WE’RE WEARING TO THE OFFICE

By Flo Bellinger, 1 September 2025

Whoever said 1 September is the real new year was bang on the money. The start of autumn feels fresh in every sense, from crisp weather to new wardrobes and the inevitable return from your summer holidays. Heading back to the office isn’t such a bad thing either. After all, it’s the perfect excuse to update your corporate uniform and invest in some new desk essentials.

Women wearing white blazer and carrying leather tote bag | ASOS Style Feed

Picture: Getty

That includes a brand-new bag – arguably the best vehicle for flaunting your impeccable sense of style to fellow colleagues. From trending silhouettes to practical choices, we’ve selected our top five work bags for the new season. Say goodbye to boring totes and hello to ludicrously capacious chic.

#1: ARKET SLOUCHY LEATHER TOTE BAG

ARKET real leather large shiny slouchy tote bag in burgundy | ASOS Style Feed

ARKET real leather large shiny slouchy tote bag in burgundy, £189

ICYMI, slouchy bags are the accessory du jour this autumn/winter. Practical and stylish in equal measure, these relaxed silhouettes are roomy enough to house your corporate essentials and still leave room for a post-work outfit change. The casual shape is also a good way to balance more structured office tailoring. We love this real leather piece from ARKET for its oversized design and trending burgundy shade. Plus, the quality will see you through countless commutes.

#2: JW PEI KIANA FAUX-SUEDE TOTE BAG

JW PEI Kiana large faux suede tote bag in olive green | ASOS Style Feed

JW PEI Kiana large faux suede tote bag in olive green, £130

Suede is set to dominate cool-weather wardrobes for the next few months, inviting a cosy texture to any look. This olive-green bag is the perfect amount of earthy and warming, with durable shoulder straps and a surprisingly spacious compartment that will easily hold a laptop and lunchbox. The best part about this tote is that it works just as well with casual looks – so it won’t be wasted on your weekend plans.

#3: TOPSHOP SATURN SHOULDER BAG

Topshop Saturn hardware shoulder bag in chocolate | ASOS

Topshop Saturn hardware shoulder bag in chocolate, £32

This one’s for those who fancy making an entrance. Heading into work can feel monotonous, so opting for a statement accessory is the ideal way to mix things up. This Topshop shoulder bag does all the work for you, with gold statement hardware, a patent-leather finish and a deep chocolate tone. The XL shape feels bold and modern, while the effortless folds of the soft fabric keep things from looking too dramatic. And for the minimalists among us? It’s also available in black.

#4: TOPSHOP TOBY TOTE BAG

Topshop Toby tubler handle tote bag in black | ASOS Style Feed

Topshop Toby tubler handle tote bag in black, £32

Another patent option with a more understated finish, this Topshop shoulder bag proves the brand isn’t slowing down when it comes to season-defining pieces. Everything about this feels quiet luxury and elevated elegance, with a 90s boxy design and high-shine faux leather. We also love how long the straps are, so no battling with your hair and coat collar during a flustered commute. Mark our words, this will be on everyone’s wish list come December.

#5: ASOS DESIGN DOUBLE-ZIP BOWLER BAG

ASOS DESIGN double zip bowler bag in washed brown | ASOS Style Feed

Pictures: ASOS

ASOS DESIGN double zip bowler bag in washed brown, £28

Finally, for something a little more structured. For those of us who move in serious corporate circles, a formal office bag is a must. But that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for something that works with looks beyond your 9-5. Bowling bags have dominated runways for much of the year, and autumn is a good excuse to dig them out again. With minimal details, smooth leather finishes and a curved silhouette, it’s easy to see why this style of bag is favoured by the enviably chic Olsen twins.