20 Backpacks That Are Totally Work-Appropriate

For most of us, a backpack was your first-ever accessory. Your Paddington Bear–print knapsack in nursery school gave way to the colorful Lisa Frank style come middle school. Perhaps you even added a Jansport or classic L.L.Bean monogrammed style to your high school rotation, even after you began amassing a decidedly more impressive collection of handbags (you know, when you didn’t have to tote around a textbook… or six).

When you got your first “real” job, you went the way of the elegant handbag: big enough to carry all your work essentials yet small and tailored enough to still look elevated. In that time, you forgot about your trusty love of backpacks—but all that is about to change. Backpacks for work are about to become your go-to carryall.

This summer, it’s time to reconsider the childhood favorite. This time, though, it’s more grown-up and elegant than ever. And totally work-appropriate. Whether it’s a designer favorite or more affordable option, brands have tapped into the world of nostalgia and reinvented the classic carryall in ways that would certainly make the you of 20 years ago excited for the future.

From classic looks from Mansur Gavriel to more whimsical Anya Hindmarch options, these elevated backpacks are absolutely perfect for work. What’s more? Your shoulder and back will thank you (yes, we’re that old). Shop our favorites here.

Ready to take that childhood favorite to the office? Good luck settling on just one!