the hunt: work horse work bags

My beloved work bag in on it's last legs. For close to 10 years, it's faithfully lugged my laptop to and from class, work, the airport, coffee shops, photo shoots, and everywhere in between. I found it at Express while I was still in college, and although the straps are unraveling and the zippers aren't that zippy anymore, I can't give the damn thing up. It's just an absolutely perfect work bag - roomy, exterior pockets for easy access to cell phone, keys, and other essentials, wear-with-everything black patent leather...But I know the time will come when my perfect bag won't be able to bear the burden of my computer, magazines, notebooks, iPad, and everything else I carry with me on any given day. It's time to start the search for a replacement, and these chic work horses would definitely get the job done.

1/ Pour La Victoire Nouveau Tote
Made of sturdy black leather, this sleek, stylish tote by Pour La Victoire - a brand I can't get enough of - has zipper gussets that expand to allow more room for workday essentials.
$445, Shopbop

2/ J.Crew Biennial Briefcase

J.Crew's recently introduced Biennial Briefcase is an instant hit - it's currently sold out online, but here's hoping it's restocked soon. The colorblocked carry-all is not only super chic, it also has padded sides (safety first!) and lots of interior compartments for organizing your cell phone, wallet, makeup, and pretty much anything else.

$395, J.Crew

3/ Loeffler Randall Locker Tote
Complete with a matching envelope clutch and detachable interior pocket, this tote is perfect for transition from day to night. Plus the water snake inset gives it a sexy, exotic vibe.
$595, Loeffler Randall

4/ Banana Republic Dianne Tote
This black leather tote by Banana Republic is as classically styled as it is practically designed. It has long handles for comfortable wear, an exterior pocket, an interior laptop compartment, and pockets for your cell phone and other essentials.
$250, Banana Republic

5/ J.Crew Montague Tote
I love a good "borrowed from the boys" style moment, and this men's leather tote by J.Crew would definitely add a masculine edge to even the most feminine work ensembles.
$298, J.Crew

6/ Kate Spade Grove Court Thea Tote
Available in colorblocked cream and navy (above) or basic black, this Kate Spade tote has a timeless appeal. And thanks to the polkadot lining, it's just as cute on the inside.
$448, Kate Spade

7/ Foley + Corinna Simpatico Tote
With a roomy interior that features a zip pocket and two slip pockets, this stylish Foley + Corinna tote in a neutral color palette goes with anything and can carry everything.
$450, Piperlime

8/ Proenza Schouler PS11 Tote
Yes, the price makes buying this bag a bit - ok, completely - pie-in-the-sky for my budget, but look at it! It's perfect! Luxe, wear-with-anything textured black leather, an exterior pocket, removable shoulder strap, roomy interior, and chic structured silhouette - what's not to love?
$2,350, Net-a-Porter