If you work in an office you have probably observed the morning rush as people arrive with their belongings, stashed into an array of bags that offer a parade of utility and practicality. Some haul heaving backpacks that’d put school kids’ to shame, others carry canvas tote bags to hold their laptop and packed lunch; a few might have dedicated computer bags, or perhaps a mini crossbody with a careful edit inside. What people choose will be dictated by a number of factors – a public transport commute vs. coveted car park in the building, an early morning gym session or after work plans, maybe a dreaded hot desking situation. These hardworking options will take you from car (or bus) to desk to dinner and back home again – and bring some colour to even the bleakest of office environments.
MAKE IT WORK
Deadly Ponies’ big ‘Mr Breton’ tote bag, in subtle shade of ‘lemongrass’, will help you hold your necessities close on the morning commute. Daejha wears a Twenty-seven Names jacket, $860. Camilla and Marc shirt, $420, jacket (worn under coat), $480, and skirt, $360. Deadly Ponies bag, $1099.
CLOCKWATCHERS
The pop of pastel from Yu Mei’s mini bags, in shades of ‘moon croc’ and ‘pumice’, make a statement under harsh fluorescent lighting. Daejha wears a Jojo Ross dress, $469. Yu Mei bags (worn as belts), $599, and $279. La Tribe shoes, $360. Roberto Coin necklace, $96,450, from Partridge Jewellers. Tights, stylist’s own.
COPY & PASTE
The newest style from the Auckland-based bag brand, the ‘Flo’ – in ‘cherry’ colourway – is plump and practical. Georgia Jay bag, $730
HOT DESK
Featuring an update on Burberry’s signature check, this knitted duffle style bag features a peg clip atop the handle. Daejha wears a Burberry blazer, $4350, shirt, $1390, trousers, $1950, and bag, $3190.
TOUCHING BASE
For those days when you don’t need much, just your phone, swipe card and a short to-do list. Daejha wears a Camilla and Marc jacket, $420. COS skirt, $215. Saben bag, $429.
GET THAT BAG
The roomy ‘Teresa’ tote in shade of ‘kiwi’ will fit a laptop, and other work necessities, and was created by the Wellington-based brand for “fuss-free commuting and analytics on the go”. Yu Mei tote bag, $1995
MORNING STAND UP
With silver dewdrop and domed stud hardware, the ‘Mr Chopalopagus’ style from Deadly Ponies is large enough room to fit daily essentials, and an afternoon snack. A mini version is also available, for more concise edits. Daejha wears a COS top, $145, and skirt $250. Deadly Ponies bag, $799, and scarf, $329. La Tribe shoes, $340. Jasmin Sparrow bracelet, $850. Lovisa hair clip, $20 (set of three). Tights, stylist’s own.
ON HOLD
Sometimes the only way to bring some lightness and whimsy to a busy workday is via accessories: like this Loewe bag, in the shape of an elephant. Daejha wears a Twenty-seven Names coat, $720 , and dress, $480. R.M.Williams shirt, $169. Loewe bag, $3890, from Faradays. Gloves, stylist’s own. Silk & Steel earrings, $99.
DESKSIDE CHAT
A bag in an unexpected shade of ‘daffodil’, like Burberry’s curved ‘Rocking Horse’ style, will bring a blast of sunshine to a grey cubicle. Burberry bag, $3190
OFFICE SPACE
Alaïa’s iconic ‘Le Cœur’ studded crossbody bag with crystal-cut details might be petite, but it will fit most smartphones. Daejha wears a Twenty-seven Names coat, $720, and dress, $480. R.M.Williams shirt, $169. Alaïa bag, $2789, from Faradays. Gloves, stylist’s own.
