Finding a bag that actually fits a laptop without looking like a sad corporate briefcase is a struggle. Most "totes" just turn into black holes where your keys go to die. Then there is the Empire Carryall Bag 34. It is a behemoth of a bag, but in a way that feels intentional rather than bulky. If you have been scrolling through Coach’s recent revival, you have definitely seen this silhouette. It is basically the older, more sophisticated sister of the Brooklyn and the Lana.
People are obsessed.
But obsession doesn't always mean it's practical. Honestly, when you are dropping several hundred dollars on a piece of leather, you need to know if the straps are going to dig into your shoulder the second you put a MacBook inside.
What Exactly is the Empire Carryall Bag 34?
Coach released the Empire line as part of their push back into "heritage" luxury. They wanted something that felt like 1990s New York—structured, slightly minimalist, but expensive-looking. The "34" refers to the width in centimeters. It is the middle child of the family, sitting between the smaller 26 and the absolutely massive 40.
The leather is the standout here. It is a natural grain leather that feels buttery. Not that stiff, plasticky leather you find on cheaper outlet bags. This is the boutique-grade stuff. It has a slight sheen but isn't shiny. Over time, it is designed to soften, though the Empire Carryall Bag 34 keeps its shape better than a standard floppy tote because of the base construction and the side cinching.
The Specs You Need to Care About
- Dimensions: Roughly 13.5 inches wide, 9 inches high, and 6 inches deep.
- Weight: It’s heavy. Even empty, you feel the quality of the leather and the hardware.
- Hardware: Minimalist. Think sleek buckles and a tiny, understated logo.
- Function: It has a zip-top closure, which is a massive win for anyone who takes the subway or hates their stuff spilling out in the car.
Does Your Laptop Actually Fit?
This is the number one question. I’ll be real: it depends on your laptop's "thirst" for space.
A 13-inch MacBook Air or Pro fits like a glove. It slides in with room for a charger, a notebook, and a makeup bag. If you are rocking a 14-inch MacBook Pro, it still fits, but you might have to angle it slightly to get the zipper shut comfortably. For anyone with a 15-inch or 16-inch beast? Forget it. You need to step up to the Empire 40.
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The Empire Carryall Bag 34 is a "work-life" bag, not just a "work" bag. It’s for the person who goes from a meeting to dinner and doesn't want to look like they’re carrying their entire home office.
The "Saggy Bottom" Debate
If you look at reviews on TikTok or handbag forums like PurseBlog, there is a divide. Some people love the "lived-in" look. Others hate it.
Because the leather is natural grain, the bottom can start to bow if you carry heavy items without a base shaper. Honestly, for a bag this price, Coach should probably include a reinforced bottom, but they went for a more relaxed aesthetic. If you’re a perfectionist who needs your bag to stand up straight like a soldier, you’ll want to buy a felt organizer insert.
It solves the sagging issue instantly. Plus, it keeps your lip gloss from rolling into the dark corners.
Carrying Options: Hand vs. Shoulder
The Empire Carryall Bag 34 comes with top handles and a detachable crossbody strap.
Let’s talk about that strap.
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It is thin. For a bag this size, a thin strap is a choice. If you pack this bag to the brim, that strap is going to bite into your shoulder by 3:00 PM. Most owners end up carrying it by the top handles or "crook of the arm" style. It looks more chic that way anyway. The crossbody option is more of a "I need my hands free to hold a coffee and my phone" backup plan, not a primary way to carry it for a three-mile walk.
Why This Bag is Beating the Competition
Look at the competition. The Saint Laurent Sac de Jour is iconic, but it’s literally three times the price and way heavier. The Prada Galleria is beautiful but feels very "corporate." The Empire Carryall Bag 34 hits a sweet spot. It has that "Quiet Luxury" vibe without the $4,000 price tag.
It’s also surprisingly durable. Natural grain leather is better at hiding scratches than smooth box leather. If you scuff it, you can usually buff it out with a bit of leather conditioner and a soft cloth.
Style It Like a Pro
You can't really "dress down" this bag to the level of gym clothes. It looks weird with leggings. But it looks incredible with:
- Oversized Blazers: It balances out the proportions perfectly.
- Straight-Leg Denim and Loafers: The ultimate "rich mom" or "creative director" look.
- Trench Coats: Very New York. Very classic.
The hardware is usually gold-tone or brass, which leans warm. Keep that in mind if you are a "silver-only" person. Some seasonal colors come with silver, but the classic black and tan almost always feature the warmer metal.
What Most People Get Wrong
People often mistake the 34 for a "large" bag. In the world of carryalls, it’s actually more of a "medium-plus."
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If you are a mom who needs to carry diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and a laptop, the 34 will frustrate you. You’ll be playing Tetris every time you try to close it. For that lifestyle, go for the 40. The Empire Carryall Bag 34 is for the professional who has edited their life down to the essentials.
Also, don't ignore the feet on the bottom. They exist! This is a huge plus because you can actually set the bag down on a café floor without feeling like you’re ruining the leather.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Leather is skin. It needs moisture.
If you live in a dry climate, the leather on your Empire Carryall Bag 34 can start to look dull after six months. Use a high-quality conditioner like Apple Brand or Coach’s own leather moisturizer once a season.
And for the love of all things fashion, don't store it hanging by the strap. It will stretch the leather loops. Stuff it with acid-free tissue paper or a small pillow and keep it in its dust bag when you aren't using it. This keeps the structure intact.
The Final Word on the Empire Carryall 34
Is it perfect? No. The strap could be wider and the bottom could be stiffer. But is it one of the best-designed bags Coach has put out in a decade? Absolutely.
It’s a "grown-up" bag. It feels substantial. When you set it on a conference table, it says you know what you’re doing.
Actionable Next Steps
- Measure your laptop: If it's wider than 13 inches, go to a store and test the fit before buying.
- Pick your color carefully: The "Maple" and "Black" colors hold their resale value best.
- Invest in an organizer: A $20 felt insert will save the shape of your $600+ investment.
- Check the weight: If you have back issues, go to a Coach boutique and hold the bag for five minutes. It is heavier than a nylon tote.
Don't wait for a massive sale on the core colors. The Empire Carryall Bag 34 in Black or Maple rarely hits the deep-clearance racks because demand stays high. If you find it at a slight discount or with a "spend and save" promotion, jump on it. It’s a piece that will still look relevant five years from now.