Finding the perfect work bag that’s comfortable, stylish and fits all of your essentials, from your lunch to gym kit, can be a challenge. Fortunately you don’t need to spend a fortune to commute in style, with plenty of affordable high street options now available that take cues from designs we’ve seen on the runway.
One brand that’s caught our eye is Katie Loxton, whose latest range of work bags nod to details seen on designs from the likes of Mulberry, Balenciaga, Goyard and more. From structured totes to slouchy, croc-style designs, these bags start from £60 and won’t set you back more than £100.
We’ve put a range of Katie Loxton’s latest work bags to the test, using them for our commutes and after-work drinks, packing in all our office day essentials such as laptops, chargers, make-up bags and more to see how they hold up.
Read more: Best affordable designer bags
Katie Loxton Harlyn distressed work tote bag
Rating: 4.5/5
This clean tote design evokes the classic styles seen at Mulberry and Goyard, but for a fraction of the price. The subtle, distressed material gives it that lived in feel and the deep cherry colour is the perfect transitional tone to take you into autumn.
The interior is spacious enough to my fit my 13in laptop, lunch, make-up bag and lots more. There are plenty of inner pockets to keep your belongings organised, including a zipped pocket for valuables. There’s even a discreet sleeve on the outside of the bag to slot your phone or card. The only downside is that the straps are quite thin, so it may start to feel uncomfortable if you’re carrying lots in it.
Why we love it: Classic and timeless design, monogram detail makes it feel extra special, plenty of inner pockets to keep essentials organised
Take note: Straps are quite thin
Reviewed by Sabrina Sahota
Katie Loxton Orin suedette tote bag
Rating: 4.5/5
This elevated tote is the perfect transitional piece for autumn. The rich cherry shade feels seasonal, while the gold twist-lock detail takes cues from DeMellier’s Hudson bag. It’s generously sized without being so roomy that your essentials disappear at the bottom, and the secure zip-top closure keeps everything safely in place.
The timeless suedette finish is also reportedly waterproof, although we didn’t get to put this to the test during the heatwave. Available in the shades 'bitter chocolate’ and ‘cherry,’ it’s an easy everyday work bag that goes with any autumnal outfit. The only downside is the thinner straps, which may become uncomfortable if you’re carrying a lot at once.
Why we love it: Colour options are perfect for autumn, generous size without being overly bulky, zip-top closure keeps belongings secure
Take note: Thin straps may become uncomfortable when the bag is heavily loaded
Reviewed by Isabella Howells
Katie Loxton Maddie work tote in grey croc
Rating: 4.5/5
The Maddie work tote is very Serena van der Woodsen. The grey faux-croc finish feels sleek and expensive, while the spacious design fits all your essentials. The relaxed tote shape and belt design feels very much inspired by Prada’s buckle bag.
I love the dedicated laptop compartment, especially as I’m guilty of throwing mine anywhere in my bag. The three-section design makes it easy to keep everything separate, while the back pocket unzips to create a handy pass-through for your suitcase handle – such a useful feature for commuting or travelling.
Why we love it: Fits up to 15in laptop within the main pocket, back pocket unzips to attach to a suitcase handle, stylish without sacrificing practicality
Take note: Only neutral colourway options available
Reviewed by Hollie Brown
Katie Loxton Victoria suedette shoulder bag
Rating: 4/5
For a simple work bag, the Victoria suedette from Katie Loxton really goes above and beyond. It has the structure of an Hermès Kelly bag with a relaxed, flap top opening inspired by the Balenciaga Rodeo. Made from sleek vegan leather, the design features two main compartments, an outer pocket on the back and a small interior sipper pocket that make staying organised in the office feel effortless.
My 13in laptop slipped in smoothly, though the structured design does limit the amount you can pack into it. However, the side-snap extensions easily pop open on both sides to give you a few extra inches of space for those heavier packing days.
Why we love it: Clasped top keeps items completely secure, plenty of compartments for organisation
Take note: Not the most spacious
Reviewed by Niki Cottrell
Read more: M&S’s £32 crochet cardigan is still trending – here’s how to style it into autumn
