I think the medium Soft 16 would make a great work bag! I work 100% remotely now, so carrying a laptop was not my consideration, but I tested the bag with my 13" MacBook Pro for you.
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As you can see in the photo, my laptop fits. Just barely, but it's not a tight squeeze, easy to get in and out. I don't think it would fit in a sleeve, though. I also have a large BV wallet, keys, gum, and a few lipsticks in there. The bag maintains its shape perfectly and is only a bit more stiff against the body. Still vey comfortable to carry on the shoulder. In the past I used my Ferragamo Sophia as a work bag, and I disliked how the weight of the laptop messed up the shape of the bag, which is not at all a problem with the Celine (photo below so you can see the difference).
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As for color, since I already have the Ferragamo in black, I did not try the 16 in black. The smooth leather is gorgeous in person, though. This gray is very versatile, warm-toned and with the very slightest rosy undertone, which I like. Looks good with both dark and light colors.
I hope this helps!