The best work bags

Looking for a bag that can get you from the office to happy hour? Seek no further.

Slimline backpack

Wear the city on your back with Bellroy's 'Melbourne' bag. The weather-proof, lightweight carry-all can be found at chic accessory spot Milligram. Created with busy city-goers in mind, it features a document slip, laptop sleeve, sunglass pocket and external water bottle holder. All this goodness is packed into a compact, slim-line design, for minimum bulk and maximum style. Shop the full Bellroy range at Milligram.

Crossbody messenger bag

Looking for a bag that will outlast you? Crumpler has been designing high-quality and durable bags for bike messengers since the 90s. Get kitted out for your cycle commute in a classic crossbody messenger bag. If you’re toting your laptop around, opt for the sturdy brace brace bag. Made from 50 per cent recycled materials, it has water-resistant zip pockets, space for two laptops and a padded strap to save your aching shoulders.

Neutral carryalls

Looking for a work bag to go with every outfit? Visit Korean boutique Moku Concept Store in Royal Arcade and pick up one of their super chic bags in white, cream, black or beige. The totes are big enough to fit all your goodies and there's a range of super soft felt laptop sleeves to keep your tech protected.

Cult-status Marimekko prints

Workbags don’t have to be sober black or grey. At Marimekko, the laptop bags and carryalls come in rainbow colours and floral prints. Like the pieni unikko shopping tote in Marimekko’s legendary poppy pattern. After a comfy bag option but don't want to scrimp on style? The Everything Backpack is just the ticket with its padded shoulder straps, multiple pockets and easy-access keychain. It also comes in a mini version.

The ultimate tote bag

Keep it casual but classy by throwing everything you need into a hold-all tote bag. Elk’s leather orsa bag is a step up from your canvas tote and comes in high-quality leather. It has two pockets and a magnet to keep your belongings safe and fits a 14 inch laptop. Melbourne-made fave Kuwaii sells a sweet signature tote in rich red cotton – and it'll barely break the bank at just under $25.

Life-changing bag accessories

Bit too ambitious with what you chucked in the tote? Use a bag organiser to manage your essentials, like Milligram's Inner Carry Bag (with 15 pockets!). Or pick up the Neat Desk Organiser to keep your workspace and tech accessories in order. It comes with a built-in wireless charger and compartments to store your cords, ear pods and more.

The Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag

It's the shiny, collapsing, geometric bag slung over the shoulder of every cool girl in Ginza. The Bao Bao range is a little higher-end than most everyday totes, but the chic design makes it a timeless statement piece. From backpacks to shoulder bags and mini purses, there's a Bao Bao for every need. Find the range at INCU.

The iconic Rains backpack

For more timeless cool, you can’t go past a classic Rains backpack. There’s nothing superfluous in this pared-back design, crafted from waterproof fabric. It’s perfect for keeping your computer, papers or daily essentials dry during unpredictable Melbourne summers. The fully lined modern-day rucksack has a laptop sleeve, carabiner closure and adjustable straps. Find Rains in Melbourne Central.

Best briefcases

Owning the leather bag game for more than 25 years, you're in very good hands at Leather Cargo. The range of leather briefcases will guarantee a dapper look, whether you're searching for classic black leather or a statement red satchel. They're also the height of convenience, with endless pockets, lockable flaps and a variety of sizes.