Morgan Scott June 6, 2019 Women, Work

10 Best Women’s Backpacks for Work that are Sophisticated and Smart

Morgan Scott June 6, 2019 Women, Work

Editor’s Note: We have updated this list for 2022 with some new bags we think you will love. Some of our initial picks have gone out of stock so we went ahead and updated our top picks, included more budget-friendly options, and even added a bonus section that recommends our favorite office-friendly backpack brands. We hope you enjoy the update!

The best work bags for women are versatile, stylish and super functional. Simple enough, right? Then why is it so hard to find a smart and sophisticated backpack for work? It seems like most of our options are either stuffy business bags or backpacks that look like they belong in a classroom, not a boardroom.

So we have done our research to find you 10 awesome bags that you can wear to work. We focus on sophisticated backpacks that are professional enough to wear at the office yet stylish enough for traveling, weekends or wherever else life takes you.

Knomo Beauchamp Laptop Backpack

Buy on Knomo

Laflore Paris bobobark

Laflore Paris

Kroser Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Table of Contents

Best Work Backpacks for Women

1. Knomo Beauchamp Laptop Backpack

2. Laflore Paris bobobark

3. Day Owl Backpack

4. Lux & Nyx The Zoe

5. Pacsafe Citysafe CX Backpack

6. Kroser Laptop Backpack

7. Lo & Sons The Rowledge

8. Able Carry Thirteen Daybag

9. Targus Newpot 15” Laptop Backpack

10. Kenneth Cole Reaction Sophie Business Backpack

Our favorite brands for sophisticated backpacks

• Lo & Sons

• Laflore Paris

• Everlane

• Samsonite

• Tumi

FAQs and Info

• Types of women’s professional bags

• Why choose a work backpack?

• How to choose the best women’s work backpack

Best Work Backpacks for Women

Finding a business backpack that is both fashionable and office appropriate can be a difficult task. Most backpacks are that are functional are too bulky or look out of place at the office. Other backpacks look stylish and chic but leave a lot to be desired when it comes to everyday functionality. Below are our top picks for women’s business backpacks that are the best of both worlds: Stylish and functional.

Knomo Beauchamp Laptop Backpack 

Buy on Knomo

Slim and sophisticated enough for the office yet roomy enough to comfortably carry all of your daily essentials. The Knomo Beauchamp is our top pick for the best work backpack for women. 

What fits inside: The Knomo Beauchamp is a medium sized women’s backpack that is large enough for a 14-inch laptop and a tablet. The main compartment can easily fit items such as water bottles, lunch, and work files. The front pockets are perfect for small items such as keys, charging cables or a wallet. If the Beauchamp is a little too small then make sure to check out the larger women’s Knomo Beaufort which can fit a laptop up to 15.6” and has more internal storage room.

Who’s it for: The Knomo Beauchamp is perfect for women who need a versatile backpack that is sophisticated enough for work but stylish enough for casual weekend wear. 

Read More about the Knomo Beauchamp

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.5” H x 11.6” W x 4.7” D

• Capacity: 13.6 liters

• Material: water resistant nylon and leather accents

• Padded laptop sleeve for laptop up to 14 inches

• Front pocket features RFID signal blocking lining to protect credit cards and passports

Knomo proves that women’s professional bags don’t have to be boring

One thing we love about the Knomo Beauchamp is its minimalist chic design that is as versatile as you are. It’s sophisticated enough to be worn at the office yet stylish enough to be paired with jeans while running errands on the weekends. Available in multiple colors to match your style, the Knomo Beauchamp is a winner in both style and function.

Its modern design is showcased with its simple round-top silhouette and mature leather detailing. The backpack itself is not too large and bulky making it the perfect women’s business backpack to go with your office attire.

Whether you are a daily work commuter or need a reliable bag to take with you to client meetings, the Knomo Beauchamp is capable of handling even the busiest of days. Unlike other backpacks for women, the Knomo Beauchamp is large enough to carry a 14-inch laptop and file folders that may not fit in smaller bags. 

Some Cons

Although the Knomo Beauchamp is our favorite backpack on this list, it still has a couple of cons we found worth mentioning. First, the Beauchamp is on the smaller side. If you are the kind of person who lugs lots of stuff to work everyday than this backpack may not be large enough for you. If you love the look of the Knomo Beauchamp but need a little more room then make sure to take a look at Knomo’s larger version the Beaufort which offers more interior storage.

Another con worth mentioning is that the front RFID pocket can get tight when the main compartment is full making using the pocket a little more difficult than it needs to be. 

Laflore Paris bobobark convertible backpack

Laflore Paris

Laflore Paris offers a sophisticated backpack for work, weekends or travel with their bobobark convertible backpack purse. With a roomy main compartment, an elegant design and a slim feminine profile this backpack is destined to become your new everyday bag. 

What fits inside: The main compartment is wide enough to store a 15-inch laptop in its padded compartment with plenty of room for books, an umbrella and other work essentials. The phone and laptop pockets allow for quick access to your tech through exterior zippers.

Who’s it for: The Laflore Paris bobobark is perfect for anyone who needs an elegant laptop backpack for work made from high quality ethically sourced vegan materials. Each bobobark backpack is handmade with an exceptional attention to detail that you’ll rarely find in mass-produced bags.

Read more about the Laflore Paris bobobark

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.5” H x 11.4” W x 2.7” D

• Materials: premium cork skin (vegan and water resistant)

• Padded compartment can hold laptop up to 15”

• Special easy-access phone pocket

• Office-friendly premium handcrafted design

• Can be worn as a backpack, crossbody or handbag

A functional work backpack with a dash of Parisian chic

The Laflore bobobark is a great women’s work backpack that is as sophisticated as it is functional thanks to a handcrafted construction and plenty of clever pockets and compartments.

One feature we absolutely love about the bobobark is its thoughtful ergonomic design that was made with a woman’s silhouette in mind. The convertible straps allow you to use the bobobark as a backpack or purse so you are sure to find a flattering fit no matter how you decide to wear it.

Each bobobark is made out of premium cork skin that is polished until the texture resembles a soft and supple leather. When paired with an elegant brass clasp and shoulder strap hardware, the bobobark easily becomes a chic alternative to a traditional leather work bag. All of the materials used on the bobobark are cruelty-free and ethically sourced which is great news for anyone looking for a quality vegan work bag for women.

Cons worth mentioning:

Laflore’s premium cork skin material is durable and naturally water resistant but it does need some care to retain its beautiful sheen over time. Be prepared to occasionally clean your bobobark with cork conditioner to keep the bag looking fresh.

This isn’t a con by any means but it is an extra step worth keeping in mind when choosing between the Laflore Paris bobobark and a cheaply made polyester or nylon backpack.

Day Owl Backpack

Day Owl Use code BACKPACKIES20 for 20% OFF your next Day Owl order of $100 or more!

Day Owl has set out to make the perfect commuter backpack and we think they have succeeded! Where the Day Owl backpack shines is in its smart design details that keep you looking polished and professional. Just a few examples include its “no slack straps” that eliminate ugly dangling straps when worn, a leather top handle so that you can carry the bag like a tote when needed and a hidden water bottle pocket for a sleeker appearance.

What fits inside: The Day Owl is available in two sizes: large and small. We found that the small version can comfortably fit two 1-inch binders inside the main compartment or a packed lunch, light sweater and laptop charger. If you need more main compartment packing room – you can go with the larger version. The Day Owl is also jam-packed with special pockets for a laptop, water bottle, phone and more!

Who’s it for: The Day Owl backpack is for anyone looking for a fun yet sleek backpack for work and weekends. The Day Owl allows you to say goodbye to dangling straps, cheap materials and ugly mesh pockets for a more sophisticated look. Available in different sizes and a ton of different colors, you’ll be sure to find one that fits perfectly in a color that is uniquely you.

Read more about the Day Owl

Features at a glance:

• Laptop pocket: 14” laptop (smaller version) or 15.6” laptop (larger version)

• Material: Waxed canvas with leather accents

• Tons of zippered pockets to keep the outside of the backpack clean and professional.

• Convertible carry: Can be carried like a tote thanks to the top handle

A sophisticated backpack for work or weekends

Day Owl has successfully crafted a mature daily carry backpack for women that can also be used for business or trips. This versatility is thanks to it’s smart pocket placement, roomy main compartment and sleek outward design that keeps you looking professional even when the backpack is packed full.

For travel, the Day Owl includes a trolley sleeve strap on the back so that you can attach it to rolling luggage. Smaller zippered pockets on the outside make fetching items like airline tickets or a passport super easy. These features and more make the perfect Day Owl for frequent travelers who are looking for an airline personal item backpack.

When used for daily work carry, the Day Owl is packed with features that will keep you organized and looking your best. One of our favorite features is the neoprene-lined chimney pocket. This is a vertical side pocket that allows you to store a water bottle and keep it hidden for a sleeker appearance. The pocket itself is leak-proof and because it’s separate from the main compartment you can be sure to that the rest of your stuff will be safe and dry in case of an accidental spill.

Leather-lined top handles makes it super easy to grab-and-go the Day Owl when you are on the move and provide a 2nd way to carry when you want a more sophisticated look at the office.

Cons worth mentioning

No bag is perfect and even the Day Owl has some cons. For those who want to carry an extra change of clothes and shoes (hello gym and work backpack) you might not have enough main compartment room in the smaller version of the Day Owl.

And although we love the side chimney pocket, it does cut into the main compartment when in use. So you if plan on storing a water bottle inside, you’ll have less room in the main compartment for other items.

Lux & Nyx The Zoe

Lux & Nyx

The Zoe by Lux & Nyx is an innovative women’s laptop backpack with tons of unique features. Our favorite feature has to be its removable front pocket that turns into a 5-way clutch and can be worn as a belt bag, wristlet, crossbody or shoulder bag. 

Other must-have features include a discreet shoe compartment, hidden straps for umbrella storage and 21 different pockets for your everyday work and personal items!

What fits inside: The main compartment is large enough for books, binders and a lunch while the separate laptop compartment allows for a 15” laptop or tablet to be securely stored with a pocket for accessories. The shoe compartment keeps flats or small heels tucked away in a separate compartment. Outside storage includes a side water bottle pocket, phone pocket and straps to secure an umbrella underneath the bag.

Who’s it for: Anyone who lives a busy professional lifestyle and is ready to invest in a sophisticated and ultra-functional backpack that can do it all. The Zoe has features that are perfect for both work and travel – this may be the only backpack you need!

Read more about the Lux & Nyx Zoe

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 15.6” H x 13.4” W x 8.5” D

• Material: Eco-Friendly Freedom Fiber Leather

• 15-inch padded laptop sleeve

• Includes a 5-way convertible clutch

Designed by women for women

Did you know Lux & Nyx is a women owned business? Each product is designed with real challenges in mind and by putting women at the forefront, Lux & Nyx has managed to offer innovative products that help you live your best life with confidence.

Many business backpacks for women ditch stylish designs for more functionality. The Zoe is the rare backpack that manages to do both. Not only does this bag look amazing but it’s incredibly practical.

Let’s start with the pockets. There are 21 pockets throughout the Zoe and each one is multifunctional to fit your needs. The outside has a few quick-access pockets from a side zippered pocket, a water bottle pocket and even a smaller zip pocket for items like a wallet or phone. These pockets are perfect for reaching items quickly without rummaging through the inside of your backpack.

Inside is where you’ll find even more organization. Lux & Nyx understands that protecting your expensive tech is important and that’s why they designed the Zoe with a padded laptop compartment that is separate main compartment. Not only does this give you fast access to your laptop but it also keeps your tech separate from your lunch, extra clothes or whatever else you decide to store in the main compartment.

5-in-one removable clutch

One amazing feature of the Lux & Nyz Zoe is the front pocket that can be removed and converted into a clutch. Each Zoe backpack includes extra straps so that the clutch can be converted into a wristlet, shoulder bag, belt bag or crossbody. Innovative features like these are what makes The Zoe one of the best women’s work backpack on the market today!

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Pacsafe Citysafe CX Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The Pacsafe Citysafe CX is a women’s backpack packed with anti-theft features that are perfect for work commuters and busy business travelers alike.

What fits inside: At a 17 liter capacity, the Citysafe CX is large enough to hold a 13-inch laptop as well as books, notebooks and business documents. Travelers will love how the roomy main compartment can comfortably fit a full sized DSLR camera, toiletry bags as well as their electronics (laptop, tablet, cables, chargers).

Who’s it for: The Pacsafe Citysafe CX is perfect for busy work commuters or business travelers who spend a lot of time on subways, airports and crowds where pickpocketing or theft may be an issue. Its professional design and smart anti-theft features make this the perfect commuter and travel backpack. 

Read more about the Pacsafe Citysafe CX

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 14.6” H x 10.6” W x 6.3” D

• Capacity: 17 liters

• Material: 100D Nylon Twill with polyester lining

• 13” laptop pocket

• Special design that prevents pickpockets and bag theft

• Can be carried as a backpack or handbag

Anti-theft features in a women’s business backpack 

Packed subways. Bustling airports. Lunch with clients in a busy part of the city. If you work a job that requires lots of commuting or traveling then having a backpack with anti-theft features that can secure your personal and business belongings is a big deal.

The Pacsafe Citysafe CX was designed with safe travel in mind. Some of its anti-theft features include:

• RFID blocking pockets for credit cards, passports and wallets

• Made of eXomesh slashguard material that prevents bag slashing theft

• Anti pickpocket designed pockets and zippers

A lot of the best work bags for women do not have these safety features which gives the Pacsafe Citysafe CX a serious edge over the competition.

Stylish enough to wear at the office

Although we love its state of the art anti-theft features, where the PacSafe really shines is in its stylish and feminine design. Its gold zipper pulls and hardware accents really give the backpack a mature and refined look that plays well with business attire. 

While having enough space inside for all of your daily essentials, the Citysafe CX is still slim and sleek enough to not look out of place when worn at the office. As far as women’s work bags go, the PacSafe Citysafe CX is a home run in terms of both style and function. 

Cons worth mentioning:

One con worth mentioning is that the shoulder straps on the PacSafe Citysafe CX backpack are a bit thin and can start to dig into your shoulders after prolonged wear. Although not a deal breaker, the shoulder straps could use more padding for more comfortable all day wear. 

Kroser Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

A merger of fashion and function, the Kroser laptop backpack proves that sophisticated backpacks don’t have to come with a high price tag.

What fits inside: Large main compartment is roomy enough for a 15-inch laptop plus books, business files and everyday items. All of your smaller items can be tucked away in the internal organizer pockets that fit everything from tech accessories to sunglasses.

Who’s it for: The Kroser laptop backpack is great for those who need a roomy women’s work bag on a budget. At under $50 this backpack is a steal.

Read more about the Kroser laptop backpack

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.1” H x 11” W x 5.1” D

• Material: Water repellent nylon with PU leather accents (faux leather)

• 15” laptop sleeve and seperate tablet sleeve

• Large main compartment for all of your daily work carry

• Side pockets can fit water bottles or an umbrella

Best budget women’s business backpack

Very rarely do you come across a cute women’s work bag with plenty of storage at a budget price. The Kroser laptop backpack features a roomy main compartment that is large enough to store a laptop, business files and binders. It’s the perfect backpack for women who haul a lot of “stuff”.

The outside of the backpack is made of out a water resistant black nylon and its PU leather accents and gold zippers gives it a polished look that won’t look out of place at the office. The inside is lined with a teal lining that makes it easy to quickly find what you are looking for inside the bag. 

We love all of the small details that make the Kroser laptop backpack so special. One cool feature is the external USB port that allows you to charge your phone while on the move (portable battery pack not included). The bag also features a padded back that makes all day carry easy and comfortable. Large side pockets are perfect for water bottles, workout shaker bottles and umbrellas. You sometimes don’t even get these kinds of practical features in more expensive bags so it’s amazing to see them included in such an affordable backpack.

Some cons: 

There are two main complaints with this backpack. The first; this bag isn’t made with the best quality materials. One of the drawbacks of purchasing a backpack so cheap is that you run the risk of not having it hold up over heavy use. A common complaint was that the zippers can sometimes stick. 

The second con is how the top of main compartment is designed. The top of the bag is reinforced with a steel frame to keep the bag’s shape even when empty. Unfortunately this means that you can’t “stuff” the bag without running the risk of not being able to zipper it shut. Although this steel frame is a nice touch when it comes to the bag’s looks, it can become really annoying when trying to pack extra items in the main compartment.

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Lo & Sons

A feature-packed design makes The Rowledge a near perfect women’s business backpack thanks to its countless pockets that allow it to be used for work, travel and even the gym! Its convertible design gives you the versatility to choose between hands-free backpack carry and a sophisticated tote when needed. 

What fits inside: The Lo & Sons Rowledge is small enough to comfortably fit most women while still providing enough room a 13” laptop, business files and binders, a change of clothes and more. The Rowledge even offers plenty of smaller pockets on the outside for organizing essentials like a water bottle, umbrella and wallet.

Who’s it for: Women who want a functional work and travel backpack without compromising on style or quality. This bag is perfect for anyone who is serious about keeping things organized. Special pockets and compartments make it easy to carry tech accessories and smaller personal items.

Read more about the Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16” H x 10.75” W x 6” D (Small) 16.5” H x 11.5” W x 6.75” D (Large)

• Material: Water resistant nylon with Nappa leather accents

• 13” padded laptop compartment

• Side pockets for water bottle or umbrella

• Converts to a tote bag when needed

• Pass through luggage trolley sleeve for traveling

A bag made for professional women on the move

The Rowledge by Lo & Sons is a sophisticated women’s backpack that was built for business carry from the ground up. The main compartment on the Rowledge is large enough for most daily essentials including business files and binders, a lunch or even a spare pair of shoes but it’s the small attention to detail that sets this backpack above the rest. We are talking about special organizer compartments for business cards, pens, keys and more that are located in the front pocket and inside the main compartment. The Rowledge is a complete rockstar when it comes to organization and this is what really elevates it above other women’s backpacks in its class.

The most versatile womens work backpack yet!

One thing we love about the Lo & Sons Rowledge is its versatile design that is unmatched with many other womens work backpacks (hello? why do so few womens backpacks have water bottle pockets!?).

Meeting clients and want to look a bit more professional? The Rowledge can convert into a tote bag in seconds thanks to its removable shoulder straps that can be tucked into the back panel for a clean and professional appearance.

Need to travel for work? The Rowledge is just the right size to use as an airline personal item. In fact, every Rowledge is compact enough to easily fit underneath an airline seat. The various organizer pockets on the front of the bag gives you quick-access to a cell phone, boarding pass or a passport and a trolley sleeve on the back panel makes the Rowledge a breeze to attach to luggage.

Time to hit the gym! Not only is the Rowledge perfect for work and travel but we also really like the Rowledge as a gym bag. The discreet water bottle pockets on the side are perfect for staying hydrated while not taking up precious room on the inside. Lo & Sons even includes a removable insert that is perfect for lugging around sweaty gym clothes.

With all of these features and more, it’s no secret that Lo & Sons makes one of the best work bags for women on the market today!

Able Carry Thirteen Daybag

Able Carry

Ultra lightweight and weather-resistant, the Able Carry Thirteen Backpack makes carrying your work essentials easier than ever thanks to its smart pocket placement and sleek minimalist design. 

What fits inside: At 13 liters, the main compartment can comfortably fit a notebook and business files while still having room for your daily essentials like a 13” laptop and smaller personal items. If you think you need more room then make sure to check out the larger Able Carry Daily Backpack.

Who’s it for: Anyone who needs a minimalist backpack without the bulk. With so many organizers and pockets there is more than enough room for daily work essentials and with plenty of colors to choose from you are bound to find one you love.

Read more about the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 17” H x 11” W x 7.5” D

• Material: Ultra-strong XPAC fabric

• Fits laptops up to 13”

• Lots of organizer pockets for small items

• Chest-friendly ergonomic shoulder straps for maximum comfort

A women’s work backpack for those who want to keep it simple

One of the reasons we love the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is because it keeps things simple. Its minimalist exterior has no loud bells and whistles and its slim profile keeps it professional in an office setting. But while it’s simple, the Thirteen Daybag is no ordinary work bag.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the Thirteen Daybag is smaller in size to better fit people with small frames. As many women know, it’s already hard enough finding a functional backpack without the ugly bulk. Able Carry does a great job at finding the right proportions so that people with smaller frames can comfortably wear this backpack without feeling like they are going on a 3-day mountaineering trip.

This thoughtfulness is extended to the shoulder strap design which takes consideration to the contour of a woman’s body. Able Carry made sure to designed the shoulder straps with a special contour that is chest-friendly for an ultra-comfortable fit. As we all know proper fit is key to finding a sophisticated backpack for work. A bag that fits better will look better after all.

Cons worth mentioning

At a 13 liter capacity the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag is definitely on the smaller side. Anyone who needs to carry a change of clothes, an extra pair of shoes or more than a few binders and books may find the backpack to be too small.

Luckily, Able Carry also carries the larger Daily Backpack that has many of the same features as the Thirteen Daybag but with a larger capacity. 

Targus Newport 15” Laptop Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Targus offers an elegant way to carry your laptop and other work essentials with the Targus Newport laptop backpack. Sleek, slim and sophisticated this backpack will fit right in when worn in professional work environments. 

What fits inside: Separate laptop sleeve and main compartment allow you to carry a laptop up to 15-inches while keeping your personal items separate. The main compartment is large enough to fit one or two business binders and an extra sweater or light jacket. Front zip pockets allow storage of smaller items.

Who’s it for: For anyone who needs a sophisticated work backpack that can carry a safely carry a laptop as well as daily essentials. 

Read more about the Targus Newport backpack

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.13” W x 5.25” D

• Material: Weather resistant nylon and faux-leather

• 15 liter carrying capacity

• Separate 15” laptop compartment

• Hidden back pocket is perfect for city commuters or business travelers

Where elegance meets simplicity

One of the first thing you might notice about the Targus Newport is its sleek profile. This is achieved by cutting back on some common backpack features such as side water bottle pockets that usually give backpacks their bulky appearance. Instead, the Newport backpack opts-in for flat front pockets, a sophisticated slim shoulder strap design and a simple silhouette to give its refined look. With the Targus Newport women’s laptop backpack, Wegener proves that elegance can be found in simplicity. 

Cons worth mentioning:

The Targus Newport offers a beautiful design and construction that leaves little to be desired. Our only worry is how the imitation leather (leatherette) panels will age over time. Our experience with some faux-leather bottoms has been less than perfect – peeling and scratching may be an issue with long-term heavy use.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Sophie Business Backpack

Buy on Amazon

Kenneth Cole designs a true women’s professional work backpack from the ground up with their Sophie business backpack. This backpack is stylish, functional and a great alternative to more expensive work bag brands.

What fits inside: Separate padded pockets for both a laptop up to 15.6-inches and a tablet. Roomy main compartment for business files, binders and books as well as personal items such as a sweater or lunch. Side pockets are perfect for water bottles or an umbrella while the front storage pocket is great for small things such as wallets, pens or purse items. 

Who’s it for: Anyone who needs a large and roomy business backpack that is still stylish and professional.

Read more about the Kenneth Cole Reaction Sophie Business Backpack

Features at a glance:

• Dimensions: 16.5” H x 13” W x 6” D

• Material: Silky nylon

• Capacity: 24.5L

• Padded computer pocket fits laptops up to 15.6” and separate tablet pocket

• RFID protected front organizer pocket

• Zippered side pockets for water bottles and umbrellas

Kenneth Cole proves that sophisticated backpacks don’t have to be glorified purses

Kenneth Cole is known for their work backpacks for men so it’s a real breathe of fresh air to see them focus on work backpacks for women and people with smaller frames. Unlike bags from other brands, the Sophie backpack was designed from the bottom up to be a work backpack for women. It’s roomy main compartment is large enough for your daily work essentials plus extras. And all of its pockets and organizers makes it a breeze to easily find what you need. 

The styling is great, especially if you are looking for a Tumi alternative but at a much cheaper price. In fact, we think the Kenneth Cole Reaction Sophie backpack rivals Tumi’s Voyageur series of bags in terms of style and functionality. 

The Sophie backpack is available in black and navy blue. Both color versions feature gold zippers and hardware with black leather zipper pulls and handles. These small details are what really elevate the backpack from casual to work appropriate. Along with the small details, the bag itself is made from a silky nylon that fits right in at the office.

Cons worth mentioning:

The biggest complaint with the Kenneth Cole Reaction Sophie business backpack are with the shoulder straps. The shoulder strap material feels on the cheaper side which is disappointing for a bag at this price point. The strap buckles adjust too easily and may need readjusting more often than it should. 

Our favorite brands for sophisticated backpacks

If you are trying to find a sophisticated backpack for work, it can be challenging to find one that ticks all the boxes. This is especially true for women’s work backpacks that need extra features such as laptop compartments and enough room for daily essentials. Luckily for all of us, some of our favorite brands have plenty of sophisticated backpack options for both work and play. 

Lo & Sons

Made for modern go-getters, Lo & Sons offers a great collection of women’s backpacks, totes and convertible bags for work, travel and play. Their mature designs and premium materials makes these backpacks some of our favorite women’s backpacks for work.

One way Lo & Sons stands out from the rest is their commitment to sustainability. 44% of their products were made with eco-friendly materials in the year 2020 with an estimated increase to 75% by the year 2023. Today there are some amazing Lo & Sons women’s backpacks and bags you can choose from that are made with recycled poly (made from plastic bottles) and organic canvas that’s grown without the use of harmful fertilizers and pesticides. Each purchase helps the brand reach their goal of offering more sustainable products in the future.

Lo & Sons Beacon Backpack Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Edgemont Convertible Backpack Tote Lo & Sons

Laflore Paris

Laflore Paris is brand started by father-daughter duo Eli and Natacha that focuses on offering stylish and ethically sourced women’s bags. From convertible backpack purses to clutches and accessories – you are sure to find an elegant and modern bag for work, travel and play.

Laflore Paris bobobark Laflore Paris

Laflore Paris bebebark Laflore Paris

Everlane

Everlane is a brand known for their stylish basics and ethical business practices. Their line of backpacks and bags is proof that simple classic styles can be all it takes to make a dependable work bag you’ll love using. 

Everlane’s attention to small details are what elevates an otherwise casual bag to a sophisticated backpack that won’t look out of place at the office. Details like high quality zippers, leather accents and mature silhouettes are what separates Everlane from other brands in its price range. If you are a fan of Everlane’s modern unisex style, we also recommend you check out our list of backpacks like Everlane.

ReNew Backpack by Everlane Buy on Everlane ReNew Backpack by Everlane Buy on Everlane

Samsonite

Samsonite is a popular brand in the world of luggage but did you know they also make stylish work backpacks for women? The brand has recently been offering some affordable options for anyone looking for a reliable women’s business backpack in fashion-forward designs with real life functionality.

We recommend looking into the Samsonite Mobile Solution collection of backpacks which includes sophisticated backpacks, totes, and spinner luggage for work and travel. With the Mobile Solution collection, Samsonite focuses on mature designs in neutral colors that are office-friendly. 

Samsonite Women’s Mobile Solution Business Travel (Black, Classic Backpack) Buy on Amazon Samsonite Women’s Mobile Solution Business Travel (Black, Convertible Backpack) Buy on Amazon

Tumi

If you spend any amount of time looking for a sophisticated backpack for work then you’ll notice that many brands are too focused on how a bag looks without much consideration on how it will be used. Backpacks with tiny main compartments, not enough pockets and cheaply made materials are all too common. Luckily, Tumi isn’t one of those brands. 

What we love about Tumi is that they make stylish bags that can actually be used in the real world. Tumi backpacks are designed for business and travel and because of this you’ll find sophisticated backpacks for women that can actually hold up to a busy lifestyle. Although on the pricer side, Tumi’s quality makes it all worth it.

Tumi Luggage Buy on Amazon TUMI Buy on Amazon

Types of Women’s Professional Bags

Are you looking for the perfect way to carry your work essentials? The best work bags for women can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It all comes down to what you need in a work bag and which style you are comfortable with. Each type of bag varies in style, formality and carry capacity so it’s important to know the difference before you purchase your next work bag. 

Tote Bags

Totes are best described as large unstructured bags that are square or rectangular in shape. These bags usually have two handles for easy hand or shoulder carry. Tote bags are also known to have open tops for easy access to the contents inside. Although open tops are usual in tote bags you can also find some with a snap enclosure or even a zipper enclosure. 

Totes have grown in popularity in recent years as the go-to business bag for many professional women. Their large capacity and wide range of styles and materials allow totes to be dressed up or down making them a popular choice for everything from work to weekend trips. Work tote bags that have a focus on business carry will include laptop sleeves, and organizational pockets on the inside.

Pros: Large capacity and easy to carry

Cons: Can look more casual than formal if you don’t stick to premium materials such as leather

Work Satchel

Larger than a purse yet smaller than a tote bag, work satchels are a happy medium in terms of size and carrying capacity. Unlike tote bags, satchels are structured and have zipper and buckle enclosures instead of an open top. Satchels usually have short handles on top in addition to a long strap that allows the bag to be worn over the shoulder or crossbody.

Satchels are usually made of fine leathers and hardware that can give them a much more refined and professional appearance. Since work satchels are on the smaller side, they usually aren’t large enough to carry laptops or work files and folders. This is important to note if you need to carry more than just some personal items and smaller work items. 

Pros: Most refined of all the work bags

Cons: Usually not large enough for laptops, work folders and other large work items

Business Backpacks

In the past wearing a backpack to work was a faux pas. Backpacks were for college students, not the office. And it’s easy to see why that was the case. Most backpacks were loud, unstructured and made of materials better suited for a hiking trip. But today we can confidently say that this is no longer the case thanks to the introduction of women’s business backpacks.

Sophisticated backpacks are a relatively new thing with brands who traditionally made luggage finally also designing work-appropriate backpacks. Brands like Tumi, Knomo London and Samsonite are all great examples of brands who began to incorporate professional looking backpacks into their product mix. 

But work backpacks are more than just refined style. The best work backpack for women has a laptop compartment, a main compartment large enough to fit business files and folders and plenty of compartments for small work essentials such as pens, business cards, water bottles, charging cables, etc. The perfect work backpack is both stylish and functional. 

Pros: Easy hands-free carry makes backpacks perfect for commuters. Larger carrying capacity.

Cons: Can easily look out of place at the office unless you stick to high quality backpacks with sophisticated designs.

Convertibles

Convertibles are bags that can switch between a backpack and a satchel or a tote and a backpack. These bags usually have backpack shoulder straps that can be tucked away and longer handles so that the bag can be used as a handbag or crossbody. 

Convertibles are ideal for women who don’t want to choose between a backpack and a handbag/tote and like the idea of having multiple carry options in just one bag. 

Rolling Business Brief (or Mobile Office)

Another type of women’s professional bag is the rolling business brief. Also sometimes called a mobile office, a rolling business brief is a large briefcase that is supported by two wheels much like luggage. 

A rolling business brief has the most carrying capacity out of any of the women’s work bag options. It can store large laptops, tons of business paperwork, files and binders while still having room for personal items such as a change of clothes and a packed lunch. 

This type of work bag is best for women with jobs that require a lot of travel where they must take their work with them. Although used sometimes by commuters, rolling business briefs are commonly seen with business travelers at airports. Today it’s easy to find a stylish rolling business brief from most brands who make luggage and business bags.

Pros: Largest carrying capacity of any women’s work bag

Cons: Large, bulky and heavy carry can be impractical for everyday commuters

Why choose a work backpack?

Backpacks are a great blend of convenience, carrying capacity and style. This is and more is why backpacks are our favorite professional bags for women. But why choose a work backpack over a satchel or brief? Let’s find out. 

Great for commuters – Unlike other types of women’s professional bags, backpacks allow for true handsfree carry. Juggling a phone, subway pass and coffee during a busy morning commute is stressful enough, why add a work bag to the mix? Backpacks are ideal for city commuters and other busy professionals alike.

Backpacks can be the best balance of functionality and style – Larger storage capacity and plenty of pockets and compartments make women’s business backpacks perfect for those who need a work bag that can do a little of everything. And now with the latest styles, women’s business backpacks are as office-friendly as ever without being too boring.

With convertibles you don’t have to compromise – Not ready to let go of your trusted tote bag? Consider picking up a backpack/handbag convertible. The Day Owl and Kroser Laptop Backpack are great examples of backpacks that give you the versatility of handbag or tote when you want it with the convenience of a backpack when you need it most. 

How to choose the best women’s work backpack

Not too long ago we wrote a guide on how How To Choose a Backpack for Work that is Sophisticated and Stylish. We encourage you to give that guide a read if you are looking to purchase a new backpack for work. But if you just want the basics, below we go over some tips on how to pick out a work appropriate backpack. 

Find the right size – Shopping for a women’s backpack is a little different than shopping for other types of bags. With backpacks, proper fit is very important and this is especially true for people with smaller frames. Although backpacks aren’t inherently gendered products, some business backpacks may be too large for some women to comfortably wear.

Wearing a backpack that is too big for your frame is more than just funny looking, it can also be uncomfortable to wear and cause back problems over time. This is why the first rule when shopping for a new work backpack is to makes sure it’s the proper size.

Find the right color and material – Avoid backpacks with “sporty” colors that are better suited high school sports than a client meeting. Instead opt-in for mature colors such as black, tan, navy and burgundy. Backpack materials should also be kept high grade. Leather is always a good choice. But nylon and canvas are also great if the colors are kept mature and sophisticated. 

Function is important – It goes without saying that function is just as important as style when it comes to a business backpack. Make sure your new backpack has all of the features you find important to get you through your work days and busy commutes. Do you like to carry drinking water wherever you go? Then make sure your backpack has a water bottle pocket. Do you have a large laptop? Then make sure your work backpack has a laptop compartment large enough to fit yours. The best women’s backpack for work is determined by how well it meets your needs.

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