In T’s column 1 Piece, 10 Budgets, we share 10 perfect versions of an item in a range of prices. Once a purely practical necessity, the work bag has become a statement piece. Here are the T market editor Jaclyn Bloomfield’s favorite iterations.
1. Mango, $89.99
Mango’s shopper proves that a great everyday bag doesn’t need to be expensive. Available in black or brown, the style features an easy-to-navigate interior with a zippered pocket and a secure magnetic closure, while a belt and dangling charm add a bit of flair.
2. Verified New York, $398
Since its 2020 debut, Verified New York has developed a reputation for pairing good values with timeless style, one example of which is this structured and versatile tote, crafted from chocolate brown suede and finished with a detachable strap.
3. Tory Burch, $595
Tory Burch is known for polished designs with a subtly preppy touch, and the brand’s newly launched Romy tote — made out of supple pebbled leather and available in five neutral shades — is no exception.
4. Amadee, $700
The designer behind the Seoul-based label Amadee trained at luxury houses like Prada and Versace. But while this oversize tote, made from Italian leather and suede, is certainly luxurious, it’s also practical, with an extra-long handle that slips easily over a coat-clad shoulder.
5. Manu Atelier, $745
With Manu Atelier, the sisters Beste and Merve Manastir marry Turkey’s rich tradition of meticulous leatherwork with a modern sensibility, as exemplified by the Le Cambon 35. Offered in a striking navy suede, among other colorways and fabrications, it’s a sophisticated piece meant to remain in rotation for years.
6. Yuzefi, $774
The Gyoza tote, from the Iranian designer Nazanin Yousefi’s namesake brand, features clean lines, an expansive interior and a magnetic closure accented with gold hardware. Part of a broader series, it’s available in three sizes and multiple colorways.
7. Toteme, $1,690
The Stockholm-based label Toteme has become synonymous with sumptuous minimalist design. A case in point is this tote made from Italian Palmellato leather and accented with a belt and tonal stitching — a nod to the brand’s iconic embroidered scarf jacket.
8. Montblanc, $2,685
Of course the Document Case from Montblanc has loops for pens and pencils. It also has a detachable cross-body strap and a trolley sleeve that can fit neatly over a carry-on handle, making it an ideal choice for those moving between the office and the airport.
9. Ferragamo, $3,600
Ferragamo’s roomy Hug bag takes its name from the way the side tabs, finished with the brand’s signature gold Gancini buckles, wrap around the body of the design, but you may find yourself embracing it, too.
10. Prada, $6,300
Prada’s Buckle Bag debuted on the Spring 2024 runway and has quickly become a cornerstone of the house’s handbag lineup. Made from calfskin, it gives heritage-driven design a contemporary twist thanks to its interchangeable belt detail.
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