Smart backpack

[Spidergirl8]

I'm looking for a smart backpack that I can use for work to leave me hands free for nursery drop. I don't want to spend loads as I'm more of a handbag person but I'm wrecking my handbags as they are getting bashed on pram etc.

Ideally it would be good for it to be at least shower proof. I've been looking everywhere and almost gave up but just came across this. I think it might work. I want to ask for a second opinion though, I need to look relatively smart and may need to take to meetings etc, but my overall work environment is smart casual- some people would use a nylon one but I want to give off a smart/professional image.

Oh and as a ps- was thinking about getting this coat too. I should add, I'm in my late 30s. Opinions?

Anyone want to share an opinion, pretty please?

Hello Spider!
That rucksack looks fantastic, and I think certainly smart enough for work without being corporate or boring.

I like the Zara trench too, but for the price I think you could get better quality from a more expensive brand, but from TK Maxx. IMO, this is where they really excel - every store I've been into has a huge selection of coats and jackets, especially by the mid market and better European brands.

I love this backpack from cos.

Sorry, posted too soon! Agree with PP: backpack great, coat nice but not amazing

The zara bag ticks all your boxes and would be fine in meetings. I personally prefer the Cos one but mostly because I am not a big black fan.

Cheap and cheerful from river island
Tan and black options from asos

There is always the mulberry cara if you have £££. Or longchamp le pliage which although it's material has a waterproof lining.

Thanks all. I did think the trench was a bit £ given it is from Zara, it was just such a good fit. Although I also like this one too, perhaps I should wait for the sale!

I love the COS one, it's just so pricey and not sure it would last in the rain. Went in store to try and se it but it was sold out. I did also consider the Longchamp one but not sure it is big enough, I have a couple of the totes and do like them a lot though!

I have the longchamp one as I found it very difficult to use a normal handbag while out with toddler twins.
It is fantastic - light and waterproof and looks good but it is a bit small for work. It wouldn't work for me as I take a laptop as well so for work I just use the backpack that came with my laptop. Not pretty but it's padded and comfortable to wear and I travel a lot so practical.

I love that Zara backpack, great find. I use one from IKEA but it's not smart enough for work. Quite tempted by that one.