The beach-ready office bag: a summer essential
As the sun comes out and the days grow longer, it's time to start thinking about summer. And with that comes the inevitable question: what to pack for the beach? But what if you could find a bag that works just as well in the office as it does on the sand? Enter the beach-ready office bag, a hybrid accessory that effortlessly adapts to different parts of your lifestyle.
What makes a beach-ready office bag?
A beach-ready office bag is a handbag that has a holiday spirit about it and fits all your poolside essentials: a towel, a book, a sun hat, and a full set of SPF products. It should feel effortless but sand-proof, with colours that correspond to your holiday wardrobe. While there's something very fabulous about wearing a totally inappropriate bag to the beach, I would argue that a true hybrid bag should feel effortless rather than accidental. Meanwhile, it should also look suitable in an office environment, pairing well with a blazer, fitting a laptop, and even offering a conversation starter with your colleagues.
How to find the perfect beach-ready office bag?
There are certain elements you should consider before making the leap and investing in a bag. Firstly, materials: avoid heavy fabrics that are overly sensitive, like suede and aniline leather. Instead, opt for pliable and softer textiles that are durable. This includes nylon, denim, and canvas, though other textured materials like raffia, silk, and woven leather could work too. Secondly, colours: embrace colour – it's summer after all! Even if you're going for durable materials, like denim or canvas, choose print or add colourful details like a scarf and a bag charm. If you're tempted by raffia or woven straw, avoid natural shades of beige and brown as they will look too beachy in the office. Instead, find pieces in darker shades or patterns, as well as those with contrasting handles in alternative textiles, including leather.
Thirdly, shapes: the most obvious choice is a tote bag – large and adaptable to a whole variety of settings. However, their shapes can vary, and I would always encourage you to go for pieces with architectural elements, including bucket or triangle silhouettes that feel super modern. Of course, make sure it's big enough to fit a laptop but not too big where it ends up looking like you're carrying a weekender. Finally, details: while a zip closure is a bonus, an internal pocket is a must! You should always have a place to put your essentials, away from any potential spillage. Every beach-ready office bag should have a shoulder strap, though an adjustable cross-body will make it even more versatile.
Some of our favourite beach-ready office bags
- M&S Denim Tote Bag
- & Other Stories Braided Leather Tote
- Gucci Mercato Medium Tote Bag in Monogram Print Canvas
- Pre-loved Chanel Wild Stitch Handbag in Dark Blue Denim
- Marimekko Large Unikko Floral Print Shoulder Tote Bag
- Multi-coloured raffia bag
- Nobody's Child Striped Raffia Bag
- Damson Madder Harlequinn Raffia Tote bag in Navy & Red
- Pre-loved Alma Tonutti Italy Woven Straw Tote Bag with Pink Leather Handles
