Our summer wardrobes have had a pretty good run this year, haven't they? With heatwave after heatwave, our favourite linen dresses (in particular, this Reformation style), toe-baring sandals and humble straw bags have gained all the airtime. And while we're not wishing summer away just yet – even though so many brands are already dropping pre-fall collections – we can't help but lust over all the new autumn pieces that'll be a part of our everyday uniforms imminently. And as we head into transeasonal weather territory – basically, the time of the year when no one knows whether to pack sunglasses or an umbrella for the commute (the answer? Both) – we think it's best to be on the safe side and lovingly pack our raffia bags away in favour of a sturdier, more reliable bag. Especially when it comes to a work bag, and this is where the much-loved tote comes into play.
And with new film Materialists launching a few days back, starring mega babe, Dakota Johnson, we've been getting some inspiration from her on-set wardrobe as a high-flying matchmaker in New York. And there's everything from the perfect leather coat, a pinstripe office-ready trouser suit and a sleek carry-everything tote bag. While we've already told you how to copy Dakota's looks from the movie, we want to now show you where to get her exact bag.
Spotted on the streets of New York, Dakota can be seen wearing a fail-safe workwear formula: blazer + wide-leg trousers + loafers. And the look is complete with the addition of the chicest oversized tote bag by Spanish label, Hereu.
As a mid-price style at £510, it's one of those leather bags you'll wear so often – and it'll also look even better throughout the years as you soften it up.
Shop: Dakota Johnson's Tote Bag
Hereu www.next.co.uk
This is the exact bag Dakota Johnson was wearing starring in new film, Materialists. The Spanish label has also been worn by the likes of Kendall Jenner, Katie Holmes and Kristen Stewart, so it's the A-list-approved accessory brand to get on-board with. Pronto.
It got us thinking about what makes the best work bags, and it's, of course, all about being big enough to be practical – we want to be able to fit our laptop, water bottle, and make-up bag, with some additional room for snacks. But we also want it not to look like a typical 'work' bag, considering you carry it around more often than most styles, it should represent your personal style, while also elevating all your outfits every time you put it on. And we realised, it's all about leather and suede.
Real or faux, these tote bags never fail to impress, will carry everything you stuff into it and you can find so many amazing styles no matter your budget. With this is mind, it's time to upgrade your workwear looks with 11 more of our favourite leather and suede tote bags.
Shop: Best Leather And Suede Tote Bags For Work
Demellierdemellierlondon.com
In buttery soft chocolatey brown suede, it's hardly surprising every fashion editor around has this tote hanging off their arm on the way to the office. The fit-everything fold-out shape – with rigid, easy-to-carry leather handles and golden hardware buckle – makes it a wow bag from every angle.
Net a porterwww.net-a-porter.com
Round of applause, Toteme. The minimalist brand has once again created an item that's destined for cult status. The rectangular shape and black colourway of this bag makes the humble tote feel fresh, while the fuss-free details deliver that premium look we expect from the much-loved Swedish label.
4.
H&M Shopper
h&m www2.hm.com
No one, and we mean absolutely no one will believe this is a high street bag, or that it's under £30 – yes, really! Proof that faux suede can look just as expensive as the real deal, this big H&M bag comes in tan or dark brown. Our choice? We want one of each for this price.
John lewis www.johnlewis.com
Burgundy will always be a chic, timeless option when it comes to a new bag. Softer than black, but just as easy to style, we recommend wearing this one with cream, dusty pink and butter yellow outfits. Congrats to John Lewis for creating the dream slouchy tote GRAZIA HQ are obsessed with.
coswww.cos.com
The high street version of that Dragon Diffusionwoven bag, we're lusting over this new in Cos bag. We know a viral bag when we see one, so you better be quick to get this sleek style that's bound to sell out as fast as the Cos crossbody bag everyone has loved for years.
www.net-a-porter.com
The Jil Sander Voyage tote is one of those love-forever pieces you'll never regret investing in. Created with structured leather, with a cream canvas lining, we love how the drawstring detailing on this one will make sure all your belongings are safe as you're rushing around on the morning commute.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Here to liven up any outfit, this cow print leather tote from M&S will get all the compliments when you walk into the office. This will lend itself well to the Western and boho trends we're seeing a lot of, so try it out with a ruffle blouse and flared jeans or a welcome addition to the Canadian tuxedo – because we all know double denim never fails.
mytheresawww.mytheresa.com
Just like the iconic Margaux, The Row's Marlo tote is set to follow suit. Perfectly formed, with minimal details and an instantly recognisable silhouette, sure, the large bag is a splurge, but you'll never want to get dressed without it.
Topshopwww.asos.com
If you thought your work bag needs to be in a classic colour, think again. This butter yellow iteration from the new Topshop collectionwill actually go with so many outfits – from a grey suit to a burgundy knit and wide leg trousers, it'll fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe and work just as well, as say, cream or beige.
zarawww.zara.com
Zara has a habit of making premium-looking bags that will fool everyone into thinking you've spent more than you have. Take this £29.99 faux leather style, for example, the directional shape and classic hue is what makes it look extra chic. It also comes with a handy inner pouch, and for £3 extra, you can add up to three initials on the tag.
Mytheresawww.mytheresa.com
Another iconic designer iteration is the Bottega Veneta Andiama Intercciato. Now, in this glossy green shade, we appreciate how it'll fit with your outfits no matter the season. For autumn, we're already imagining wearing it with a suede skirt, cashmere knit and knee-high boots.
Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor and stylist, contributing to many titles including Vogue, Stylist, Glamour, Who What Wear and of course, Grazia. Always finding high street buys that look expensive, and the designer items to elevate them further, she’s constantly on the lookout for lesser-known brands and mini street style trends. This, and searching for her next holiday destination where she’ll be showing them off on Instagram at @harriet.davey, along with travel tips on TikTok @harriet.davey.