The Cuyana System Tote: Is This the Perfect Work Bag?
Reviewing my new (to me) tote bag for work
The Cuyana System Tote in ‘Cappuccino’
Why this bag?
I’ve been on the hunt for a new work bag, but wanted to hold out for the perfect one. For the past few years, I’ve been on a hybrid schedule so I wanted to something nice looking but still functional and big enough to haul my laptop and work essentials back and forth.
Out of necessity, I’ve been using a beat up old backback - practical, but not exactly cute. So I set out to find a tote bag that would work for me. After looking into my options, I narrowed it down to the Polene Cyme bag or one of Cuyana’s totes.
I haven’t purchased bags from either of these brands before but they both have bags that fit my style and have good reviews. Cuyana has several cute options for work bags including the more basic Classic Easy Tote, the System Tote, and a new bag called the Mila Satchel that can double as a travel bag.
Since I knew what I was looking for, or at least had narrowed it down, and finding the most sustainable option available is improtant to me, I figured I should check out some of the secondhand apps to see if it was available there. Cuyana is a fairly sustainable brand, so I would feel comfortable purchasing from them, but secondhand is always the better option.
After a few weeks of searching and checking websites and apps, I found a 16 inch sytem tote from Cuyana on sale with some accessories on Poshmark. In total, I paid around $300 for three pieces - the bag itself, an insertable pouch, and a detachable strap - that normally would have cost twice that new!
The wide strap I purchased with it is great for travel and just carrying a lot of stuff. The pouch I got with it snaps into place inside the bag. The great thing about the system tote is that there are a lot of accessories available that you can add on to it. I’m already eyeing the laptop sleeve to finish off the set.
Just a few of the smaller things I throw in my bag everyday.
Would I recommend it?
I’ve been super impressed with this bag so far. First of all, the color is really pretty. I think the cappuccino shade is a perfect neutral that goes with all of my work outfits. The size is also perfect for what I was looking for. There is a smaller version (13 inch) that I think would also work for a lot of people, but I wanted a slightly bigger bag that I can also use when I travel. This fits everything I need for work - my 13 inch laptop, wallet, keys, notebooks, a book, snacks, and other small items I throw in my bag for work.
This bag also feels very sturdy and like it will last a long time. The wider straps mean you can fit more in without worrying about the straps breaking. I also like that you can add on pieces to make it customizable for you and what you need. Add on accessories include different sized straps, pouches, and laptop sleeves.
Pretty much the only downside I’ve seen so far is the price - the 16 inch comes in at $348 without any of the accessories. Not a dealbreaker for me though, and there are a lot of options to buy secondhand like I did if you want to save a bit. However, it is a great quality bag made with sustainability in mind, so regardless of whether you find it thirfted or buy new, it is a great investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Color, leather, ability to buy extra pieces, durability, size
Cons: Having to buy extra pieces, price
Overall, I’m super happy with this bag! This has been the perfect addition to my work wardrobe and fits everything I need to bring to the office. It’s also super comfortable to carry and adds a nice touch to my work outfits. I would absolutely recommend this bag to anyone looking for a nice tote for the office.
