Women have a very intimate relationship with their handbags; handbags have been considered as a social status statement since time immemorial. A handbag is so essential that no mature woman would think of leaving the house without carrying one, especially the working woman.

However, many women do not pay much attention to the kind of handbag they bring to work. We usually painstakingly plan the clothes and shoes that we wear, but for handbags, we just grab one and go.


Did you know that your work handbag is not just an accessory? It can also contribute to your work performance in many ways.

Some important tips on how to choose a perfect handbag for the office

What is important here is that style shouldn’t sacrifice function; they should both go hand in hand. A stylish and reliable handbag can make even the most unorganized women feel in control of their lives.

So what makes a handbag perfect for your office lifestyle? What key features should a handbag have to be appropriate for work? A work handbag needs to be everything at once! It should look professional and attractive but not too stuffy or flashy.

It should have enough space to carry a laptop, some paperwork, and other work essentials. It should have multiple pockets, can be worn in multiple ways, and should be strong enough to carry everything you need.


Too many to think about, right? Don’t get overwhelmed! The following guide will help you find a fashion-forward quality work bag that would be just right for you.

1. Keep it functional

One of the important things to remember is that your handbag needs to be functional

A handbag with things thrown in and bursting along the seams can give a very unorganized, irresponsible impression and would make you look negligent. Look for a handbag that has enough pockets and compartments for your essentials.

If your bag is going to be heavy, a Satchel, Shoulder bag, Multi-way bag or a tote would be recommended. Make sure whichever silhouette you select has thick supportive straps to distribute the weight equally throughout your shoulders to avoid discomfort.

If you plan to be very active for the day, a smaller bag such as a cross-body, small shoulder bag, or a wristlet would be a perfect fit.

2. Pitch on a large one

The first thing to consider when buying a handbag for work is its size. Your handbag should not just be big enough to accommodate your everyday essentials but also should have extra space for days when you have to load it with additional things.

3. Look for convertible and thick straps

broad straps
Bags with broad and convertible straps are easier to carry around

Convertible and adjustable straps provide you with multiple options to carrying your stylish handbag depending on the situation and your comfort needs. You should be able to grab it and go.


Your handbag should adjust to your busy, quick paced lifestyle. Convenience and comfort should be your priority, use your handbag across your body as a cross-body, on your shoulder, or on your arm.

Switch the placement of the strap to avoid muscle exhaustion on your shoulders.

4. Go by your style

Your handbag should define your style

You can never go wrong with minimalistic and timeless designs; a classic will always be in style. Invest in quality, preferably a solid neutral color, add detail with a textured surface of accessory that reflects your unique personality.

The perfect handbag should suit you, making you comfortable and confident as it accompanies you to conquer you day


5. Keep it simple and minimal

Your handbag should not have chunky embellishments, gaudy brand logos, or bold prints that pop out. Opt for bags with miniature embellishments and subtle prints.

This will prevent you from appearing arrogant, unprofessional, and tacky.

6. Go for a neutral color

Neutral color bags can be paired with any dress

Unless you want (or can afford to buy) a handbag for every outfit you wear to work, opt for a neutral-colored handbag, such as black, tan, grey, or brown.

These colors will complement whatever you are wearing without the inconvenience of constantly switching bags throughout the week.

You can always accessorize your handbag by adding a charm or tying a vibrant scarf on it to achieve different looks without spending much.

7. Check what is on the inside

Your work handbag should have a light-colored lining. This will enable you to see the contents of your bag easily and find what you need quickly. A dark-colored lining will just drown everything inside your bag.


The interior of your handbag should serve you well with enough compartments and zippers to keep your items in place.

Just beware, the light-colored lining is more prone to stains, a more durable textile such as faux leather or leather is recommended since it can be maintained easily.

8. Evaluate its durability

A leather or good-quality faux leather handbag is a good choice. Leather is an investment that is durable and will always be an essential textile used in handbags. We know you do not want your handbag to wear out quickly.

Do a scratch test to see if the material is easily scuffed. To avoid the appearances of marks on your bag, try textured leather such as pebbled leather or an exotic leather such as snake or crocodile.

Keep in mind that pebbled leather is a classic textile that is always relevant, while exotic leather will go in and out of style. Avoid coated leather since its easily damaged. It is important to invest in a handbag that is worth the price and can stand the test of time.

9. Focus on the structure

A slouchy bag does not reflect well on your personality

Avoid slouchy handbags such as the hobo bag that falls flat on the floor or table as they look sloppy and could reflect a sloppy personality, surely, you do not want to appear meek and uncertain.

A structured handbag that can stand on its own is your best choice and can reflect an independent and confident character. Structured pieces will always be in style, in addition, the structure of the handbag also contributes to its durability.

10. Approach a stylist when in doubt

In case you become confused, overwhelmed, or unable to make a decision on what kind of handbag suits your personality, style, and needs, you can always approach the stylist in the store to get a better insight about the key features of the handbags.

11. Shopping online?

Shopping online for handbags can be difficult, not seeing and feeling the tangible product can be risky. Prior to purchasing a handbag, make sure you look at the textiles used, that will give you an idea of how it feels.

Once you decide the textile if it is a good fit for you, look at the dimensions of the handbag and measure your laptop, tablet, and other work tools. This will assure you that all items will fit properly.

Your work handbag should be both polished and practical. By keeping these tips in mind, you no longer have to settle for a boring basic handbag. Go and find one that is functional yet fashion forward that will make you look as confident as you are.