Versatility is a key aspect we look for when defining wardrobe staples. If an item can be worn with many outfits and for a variety of occasions, it’s a strong contender for an essential. And yes, this applies to handbags. Now, we, the editors here at Who What Wear, certainly know there’s a time and a place for a fun clutch, for example, for specific parties and whatnot. That said, for the most part, we gravitate toward bags that are fantastic for everyday life—specifically for work and travel.
Below, you’ll uncover the chic handbags our editors are loving right now. Some of the styles skew on the smaller end if you’re not one to carry a ton of stuff (and could fit flawlessly in a carry-on), and others are a tad larger if you needs to store all of your must-haves. Keep scrolling for more.
"My handbag is always filled to the top, so when it comes to work and travel, I like a roomy tote. This Marc Jacobs one is perfect—even the small size fits my laptop and iPad. I can also easily fit my makeup bag and daily essentials in it if needed for travel!"
"Hereu got the design of this tote just right, pairing canvas with trimmed leather and making it lightweight enough to carry just about everywhere and roomy enough to fit everything I need for a day at the office or trip to the beach."
"Sleek and timeless, Cuyana's System Tote made of soft and supple Italian leather is the perfect size to fit my 13-inch laptop and all my everyday essentials for work and travel without looking overly large or bulky. The caramel hue goes with every outfit."
"This Celine stunner is like my dream bag right now. It could literally fit all of my essentials, and I like the zipper on top to keep everything secure."
"I buy a lot of my accessories on Italist because of the amazing discounts. I have this tote on my radar. I love that there's a tie to secure the opening a bit."
"I am currently days away from my first trip to Europe in a while, and I picked up this bag just for the occasion. I went into the store wanting something that was roomy enough to fit all of the essentials—phone, wallet, and maybe a pastry or two—but I also didn't want to be carrying around an annoying tote. Thanks to the crossbody strap, I'll be hands-free when I explore the little towns along the Amalfi Coast with this bag by my side."
"Let me just say that I'm not typically a tote-bag person, but as soon as I slung this bag over my arm, I was a changed woman. In case you're not already familiar with Italic, it's a retailer that uses the same factories as the world's most luxurious brands—for example, this bag shares a manufacturer with Prada and Miu Miu, so you know the quality is amazing for the price. Speaking of, it's made from the most buttery-soft leather, and the minimalist shape is versatile and roomy. It's quickly become my go-to bag for traveling and going into the office."
Shop more bags we love:
Pretty toe.
The fashion crowd adores this bag.
Madewell's new oversize tote is perfect.
This bag looks so expensive.
A logo moment.
Just chic.
Love the black and white.
Classic.
The inside pouch is a nice touch.
Gorgeous.
Dagne Dover makes amazing, functional bags.
A fun option.
This bag will go with everything.
The contrast is cool.
Can't go wrong with a Longchamp.
Next, check out more gorgeous bags.
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Sorry to My Go-To Accessories, But I'm Replacing You With This Rich-Looking TrendTruly the easiest outfit upgrade.
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This French Brand Has the Perfect Anti-Canvas Tote—and It's Already TrendingIt's time to say goodbye to that scruffy old canvas shopper.
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Forget Black—Celebrity It Bags All Have This One Color in CommonIt's just as timeless.
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I Get Compliments Every Time I Wear This 20-Year-Old It BagLike a fine wine, it gets better with age.
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I've Lived in NYC and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for WinterStay warm without sacrificing style.
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Alexa Chung Is Already Wearing the Boho Bag Trend That's Going to Be Everywhere in 2025Fringe benefits.
