Work Bags That Actually Work

The Freja Paloma Work Tote- neutral work bag styled for everyday wear

The Work Bag Edit

Look, we all love The Row Margaux. It’s the definition of understated luxury — clean lines, incredible craftsmanship, that perfectly slouched shape that somehow makes every outfit look instantly more stylish. You know the bag you saw Kendall Jenner carrying to Pilates? Yeah — that one. But we’re not Kendall Jenner, and we don’t have $20,000 to spend on a bag.

The good news? There are work bags that give you that same refined look and high-end quality — without the designer price tag. For me, it comes down to two things: how it looks and how it holds up. I want a bag that looks sleek, structured, and timeless, but can actually keep up with real life — the long workdays, the errands, the happy hours, and the dinners.

In my opinion, two brands that fit that perfectly are Cuyana and Freja. Both make pieces that feel elevated, durable, and made for women who actually use their bags — not just as an outfit prop. Oh, and both brands are owned by women — no wonder they’re made to be functional.

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Cuyana: Classic Style That Lasts

Cuyana 13 inch System Tote Bag

I personally own several pieces from Cuyana — the System Tote, the Classic Easy Tote, and the Small System Bag — plus several of their organization inserts. The compartments are a game changer. Everything stays where it should be — laptop, keys, planner — and nothing disappears into the bottom.

The pebble leather is what stands out most. It has that soft yet structured texture that feels high-quality and wears well over time. The stitching, handles, and lining all feel well-crafted — like a piece that’s actually made to last. I get stopped and complimented all the time when I’m carrying these bags, which says a lot considering there’s no logo in sight. It’s the quality of the bag that catches people’s eyes — it’s just so well made.

Cuyana’s “fewer, better things” philosophy really comes through here. The bags look high-end and feel elevated without trying too hard — the kind you can carry to work, the airport, or dinner, and they always look right.

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Freja: Modern Minimalism Done Right

Let’s talk about the brand behind this one: Freja, founded by Jenny Lei. What started as Jenny’s search for the perfect work bag has turned into one of those brands everyone’s talking about — especially after it started catching eyes during New York Fashion Week.

Their Lafayette Tote and Paloma Mini Bag are perfect examples — both understated, with just enough structure to work from the office to dinner or weekend plans. They hold everything you need without losing shape. I can attest to this because I’ve had the Paloma Bag in dark brown for two years, and I’ve stuffed everything imaginable in there — it still looks brand new, like it’s never been worn.

Made from soft, structured vegan leather, Freja bags have that sophisticated look that instantly makes any outfit feel high-end. The best part? The price point is really good for the quality and design — these bags look expensive without the steep price tag.

It’s the simplicity and minimalism that give the bags their refined, high-end look. Freja proves that minimal doesn’t mean basic — it’s the kind of design that stands out on its own without trying.

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The Edit

Gone are the days of frumpy, old-school work bags. Your work bag is a fashion statement on its own — it should look good, make your everyday outfit look even better, and still be functional enough to keep up with your lifestyle.

If you want good quality with a classic design that will never go out of style, Cuyana is worth every penny. If you love modern, minimal design and want something functional without the high price tag, Freja is your answer.

Both embody that refined, minimalist aesthetic — proving that high-end quality doesn’t need a high-end price, just beautiful materials and the right attention to make them last.

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Shop the Edit

Because the right bag doesn’t just complete your look — it defines it. Here are the two I reach for most:

• Cuyana-Known for their buttery pebble leather and classic, structured designs that never go out of style. The System Tote and Classic Easy Tote are perfect if you want something refined and long-lasting.'

  
  

• Freja Paloma Tote- Sleek, modern, and functional. Made from soft vegan leather that looks (and feels) high-end without the luxury price tag. The Paloma Bag is my everyday go-to.