Anyone else finding the return to work has left you mentally dragging your heels, as the sun shines outside the window?
One thing that helps? Planning outfits allows us to feel in control and organised and ready to tackle the new year, not to mention excited about what these 12 months might bring fashion-wise.
We’re starting with a great bag that merges style and function and will form the foundation of our working wardrobe this year.
According to fashion reseller Depop’s recent 2026 trend report, style is currently shifting away from constant reinvention toward something more selective, repetitive and emotionally grounded: fewer pieces, worn more intention. Prioritising taste, not trends.
The report also says that fashion lovers are not waiting for special occasions to wear their favourite items, rather than using everyday activities (yes, that includes work!) to show off their sense of style and identity.
Depop found that “many people now dress up on regular days to express confidence and support emotional comfort and as a way to feel more present in their day-to-day lives.”
This certainly resonates with us. While switching up styling with jewellery and accessories brings life to classic pieces – choosing those key items to build upon helps narrow down your style signature.
Investing in a great work bag that has a nod to fashion but will last longer than the EOFY is our priority. Here’s the ones we have our eye on:
Saint Laurent Mombasa
The deep chocolate hue of this giant hobo-shaped bag has us sold. It looks nonchalant and comes in three sizes – just choose the one that fits your must-haves, be it lipstick and keys or water bottle and after-work gym gear.
Dior Medium Book Tote
The squared-off shape of Dior’s famous book tote makes it great for slotting in papers and your tablet, but is spacious enough to let you see everything else down in the depths.
Deadly Ponies Mr Bandit Tote
We can’t stop thinkin about the shiny oxblood colour of this classic leather tote, but the Gingerbread Suede interior is just as good. The glossy finish adds professional polish to every outfit.
R.M. Williams Eden tote
A brilliant example of hidden organisation and versatility, this bag has an internal pouch in the same rich, tan leather that you can also can detach and use alone.
Saben Parker Briefcase
Carrying a laptop regularly? Here’s your go-to. Saben has perfected all the non-negotiables of a work bag with padded protection for your tech, different internal compartments and a longer crossbody strap for carrying.
Cos Sculpted Tote Bag
Our not-so-secret crush, this dreamy tote doesn’t exactly scream corporate, but it fits a lot while getting from A to B and is on the money trend-wise (if that’s of concern to you) with it’s slouchy, oversized shape. Just watch out with your morning matcha, suede is difficult to clean.
Gucci Beatrix Tote
Are you sensing a theme? Gucci’s famous GG canvas gets a seasonal update in this relaxed shape tote in an almost-incognito dark brown colourway.
DeMellier New York tote
A desirable new twist on classic ‘expandable’ style bags such as Celine’s Luggage tote, this forest green number is just the thing to take us through autumn and winter. Every bag sold also supports the company’s ‘A Bag, A Life’ initiative, funding life-saving vaccines and medical treatments for children.
St Agni 90s Belt Bag
If all you need is your keys, card and phone, there’s no better way to pop out on office errands with this little number slung over your shoulder. Step away from boring black with this mahogany option that still works well with all of your neutral basics.
