In need of an all season work bag!

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Danzie89

Danzie89

Member
Jun 28, 2014
231
638
#1
Hi ladies! I am in need of some help! I've been carrying around my Vera bag in poppy fields from Vera Bradley for a couple of years now and want something that looks a bit more appropriate for all occasions and a bit more polished. I would prefer a bag that is similar in size to the Vera that has a sturdy base so I can easily fit my work laptop in the bag and some file folders. I work as a social worker in the field so accessibility and something that I can easily carry on my shoulder is important. If possible, I would prefer to spend no more than $100-$150 on the bag. Does anyone have any ideas??

Thank you! :smile1:
 
#2
Hi! I think for $100-150 if you want something nice, your best bet is to go with a basic neutral-tone tote - taupe, black, purple, etc.

Honestly, one bag is TOUGH because blacks rarely go with browns. But a black back with brown edging would often work. I didn't hear you mention a need for leather, which is promising (at that budget). And if it's for work as a social worker, I bet you want something crisp and professional that won't ever look cheap, but also won't ever look flashy...

SOLUTION:
Longchamp Le Pliage in Medium or Large (depending on laptop/files size) in olive, taupe, or black, with long brown straps ($120-180)
+ $20-40 Base shaper/organizer from Amazon or one of many Etsy sellers, because it doesn't really stand up on its own

If you are flexible on color, you can often get slightly-used Longchamps for even cheaper (~$100) on eBay. But be careful about fakes.

If you want to invest in a style you love, with monogram etc, I think you can custom order something to be absolutely exactly what you want for about $200. I would go with this option.
 
#3
I'll look into the Longchamp bags. Are the leather handles substantial enough to carry 5-10 pounds of items I would tote around daily at work? I really like the sleek look!
 
#4
I have a laptop bag from Francine Collections that was sub-$200 and I'd highly recommend checking them out. I bought it years ago for a trip. Great designs with reasonable prices and their customer service is amazing. There was an issue with the initial bag I received and they sent a new one immediately. In this one, I've lugged around a 15.6 laptop, notebooks, and other items for work and work travel and it's been perfect and I've gotten a lot of compliments on it.
 
#5
http://www.colehaan.com/camlin-medium-tote-black/B45789.html

Above bag is little above $150, but leather & larger (not sure which size vera tote you have?). Also comes in burgundy color, if want more cheerful.

http://www.colehaan.com/melbourne-magazine-tote-black/701937790537.html?tmad=c&tmcampid=9&ds_e_ad_type=pla&gclid=CNKRj4ea4sICFYM-aQodTrgA6A&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CMXM0Yea4sICFYc1aQodOWEAZg

Alternately, second leather bag is <$100, smaller (may not fit files), but easy to organize & looks professional.

Hope this helps.
 
#7
Danzie89 said:
I'll look into the Longchamp bags. Are the leather handles substantial enough to carry 5-10 pounds of items I would tote around daily at work? I really like the sleek look!
Click to expand...

They're INCREDIBLY strong - indestructibly so. Yes. I used to carry anywhere between 5-15 lbs in mine.

Le Pliage bags are pretty much iconic; students carry them, moms, businesswomen... you can get away with one in all settings and weather conditions (rain-proof). That's their main selling point.

The main disadvantage is that they have 0 interior organization. You have to buy a separate organizer.
 
#8
Wonderful suggestions so far. Thank you! I will be researching all options (so please keep throwing me some ideas). For reference, I have the Vera Tote from Vera Bradley and I really like its organization but want something a bit more professional looking that I can use throughout the year.
 
#9
missemily said:
I so highly recommend an etsy designer that had made me a couple of gorgeous leather totes- all for under $200. She can customize the bag for you too!!! Her name is Laurel Dasso- this link is to her store. I just love her and her bags!!!! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DalleMieMani
Click to expand...


I quickly glanced at her etsy store and am seriously blown away. I'm definitely considering this option since one of my priorities is patronizing US manufacturing. Which totes of hers did you purchase?
 
#10
I have a customized version of the Seattle bag that is black and the light blue. I also have just the black tote that has one strap and she added an outside slip pocket. Also a black tote. Love them all the leather is gorgeous and she will customize the inside. I have had her add a pen pocket- so they have at least 2 inside slip pockets and a zippered pocket. Love them all! She is so nice and great to work with.
 
#11
https://www.etsy.com/listing/200965013/perfect-tote-black-pebbled-calfskin?
This is basically the bag I have 2 of-one is color blocked and is black and blue. The other is all black. She will do diff colored linings for you also. I love her, if you message her she will work with you to add any changes- she is so sweet. I love that it is made in America and is one of a kind. I carry an iPad, wallet, small cosmetic bag, small wristlet with chargers in it, lunch bag, sometimes an extra jacket and pair of shoes in it. They can hold a ton, they are a great size for hauling stuff to work
 
#13
I caved and ordered one of her bags. I originally sent a message referencing the medium east west tote but wanting it in a larger size to fit my laptop, file folders, planner, and others with interior pockets. I mentioned my price constraint of $230 (I splurged-and that was the price of the medium east west tote bag). She responded no more than 10 minutes later, told me that a custom version of the large east west tote would best fit my needs (which is $280) and told me that I can purchase the medium tote AND get free shipping-- basically she gave me a $60 discount for no apparent reason! And she's changing the shoulder strap (instead of it being very wide and messenger bag-like, it will be a thinner but still substantial adjustable leather strap) and is adding additional interior pockets and a key clip. I am SO SO excited for her to make my bag! I ordered it in the color salted caramel with a dark brown canvas interior.

Thank you ladies for all your wonderful suggestions!
 
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#15
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