For some women, finding a fashionable yet functional laptop bag is rumored to be harder than choosing a wedding band. Not only does such a bag need to be business-appropriate but not boring, affordable but not cheaply made, and distinctive but not childish, it also needs to survive storms, the subway, and possibly even scrutiny from co-workers (and that might only be on the morning commute!). If you’re having trouble finding a wonderful yet workable laptop bag, take some inspiration from these perfect picks.
Chic 'n' Small: Perfect for netbooks and other small computers, this quilted purse adds glamour to your workday. The double-chain handle slides through grommets (and the purse itself), so you can opt to use it as one cross-body strap. A cute decorative padlock on outer pocket makes it official business. ($54.90; thelimited.com)
Cheap ’n’ Cheerful: These bright sleeves by Built NY stretch to fit laptops up to 16". The best part: the neoprene sheath is TSA friendly, which means you won't have to remove your laptop from it's case when going through airport security. ($36; seejanework.com)
Urban Adventure: If you needed to find a durable laptop bag, like, yesterday, then look no further than Timbuk2’s FSwig Backpack. This verticle messenger bag comes complete with a grab handle, padded strap, and “tuckable” backpack straps, so you can wear it any which way. ($90; timbuk2.com)
Luxurious and Lively: Melissa Beth Designs was one of the original brands to offer laptop bags designed uniquely for women, and the Pocket Full of ’Puter is still something of an industry standard. Suitable for up to 15.4-inch laptops, these bags come in a variety of eye-catching colors, are trimmed in leather, and reveal punchy interior fabrics to keep your own inner diva satisfied. Ladies with laptops measuring 13 inches or less should check out the Half Pocket Full of ’Puter for their tiny technology. ($198 for the Pocket Full of ’Puter, $149 for the Half Pocket; melissabethdesigns.com)
Fashion Forward: Avert your eyes if necessary, because it’s one strong woman who can gaze upon the Acme Made Slim Cargo in PS Strip Reverberating by Paul Smith and not get itchy fingers. In addition to eye-catching stripes, this bag has a smoothly rounded design and high-quality leather handles, is made from water-resistant ballistic nylon, and comes with a one-year warranty to back it all up. The world is your catwalk with this high-fashion find. ($100; acmemade.com)
