Just what are the essentials for work bags that make the cut?

No matter your line of work, it is a given that you need a good work bag. A work bag must be many things– a utilitarian workhorse, a chic bag that works just as well after hours, a handy place to stow your lunch, a tech bag, and your workaday purse for the essentials you may need. And it has to be sturdy, super cool, works with all possible outfits, and, of course, it should also be the most excellent accessory around. Roundly, the right bag can make your day, while the wrong bag can set you up for a disaster. No pressure, but you better get it right.

The essential work bag must combine form and function into one. It must be comfortable to wear–no digging into your shoulders. You need this bag to go with everything because you’re not going to be swapping things in and out of different bags to coordinate with what you’re wearing that day. The straps also need to be long enough–no handheld work bags thank you.

Of course, you are probably looking for a more sustainable choice in your work bag as well. Whether something made from sustainably sourced canvas, made with repurposed leather, or built to last forever, you want a more environmentally aware choice. We get it. You want your work bag to be essentially your everything.

5 Sustainable Work Bags to Inspire

1. Felt and Leather Tote – This bag is made from upcycled materials by Looptworks, a company that has pioneered an environmentally friendly approach to product design and production. The mix of a bold design in grey and black is a slam duck in the style department, too.

2. The Carrier – Made of durable waxed canvas, this bag from Moop is a workhorse. The clean lines and utilitarian function of this large tote style bag make it both versatile and stylish. Available in three different colorways.

3. Knitla – The Matt & Nat brand is committed to not using leather or any other animal-based materials in their vegan designs. This satchel style bag, which is available in seven neutral colors, can be carried by the handle drops or with a removable crossbody strap.

4. Manhattan Tote – Timbuk2 bags are designed to last a lifetime. The bags are made with materials that are tough enough for whatever life throws at you, and they even offer a lifetime warranty for defects or tragic fails. Can’t beat that. This tote is made from waxed canvas with leather accents.

5. Avery Tote – Go Forth Goods strives to make timeless, functional bags that are made to last. The company has a commitment to hand making high-quality American-made leather goods with simple designs and practical functionality. We are smitten.

Related on EcoSalon

The Ultimate List of Sustainable Handbag Designers (From A-Z)
9 Vegan Handbags to Take Your Spring Look From Drab to Fab
Handbags Born of Old Leather Jackets

Commuting Woman on Bike Image via Shutterstock

The post 5 Essential (and Totally Sustainable) Work Bags appeared first on EcoSalon.

You certainly can’t leave for work without downing a few cups of java, but why stop there? Wear your caffeine addiction with pride!

Wren, a hand-made South African label, makes very fashionable bags out of coffee burlap sacks.The bags are currently available on Wren’s Etsy site, but an online shop is coming soon.

“Burlap?” you say, “isn’t that for hippies?” Not anymore, thanks to these chic looking totes, laptop bags and duffels that will make you take your coffee obsession to a whole new level. Just make sure to team with a reusable mug and not one of those pesky, disposable things. You wouldn’t want to be labeled as an eco-uncaring fashionista, now would you?

The post Bringing Back Burlap: Chic Coffee Shoulder Bags appeared first on EcoSalon.

When Kerry and Anne Hilton uprooted their lives to help the people of Calcutta, it broke their hearts to witness women selling their bodies just to keep from starving. Appalled that so many souls resort to prostitution as a means of survival, it was clear that they had found their calling.

The Hiltons decided to take advantage of the surplus of jute in West Bengal and pursue what they called “the business of setting people free” with the establishment of Freeset Bags. Here, many troubled victims of the sex trade, lacking even basic sewing skills, went from novices to master artisans with the help of Kerry and Anne. To further support their cause, you can buy their handcrafted totes, slings and messenger bags at Original Good.

The post Freeset Bags: Setting Women Free appeared first on EcoSalon.