7 Back-To-Work Essentials To Make 2026 Your Most Productive Year Yet
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By Victoria Lewis | 8th January 2026Sorry to say it, folks – it’s time to get back into the swing of things. But before you sigh too hard, take a deep breath: this isn’t just about surviving the work week, it’s about starting the year thriving. And yes, we’ve got the ultimate round-up of chic, practical work essentials to help you feel fresh, motivated, and ready to roll.
Think of it like my tried-and-true “girl math” for gym gear: buy something new, and suddenly showing up – and actually getting sht done* — feels way easier. Swap in stylish work accessories, and suddenly your desk is clutter-free, your vibe is on point, and conquering the work world becomes…well, a lot more fun.
Scroll on for our top seven must-haves to survive the back-to-work grind – and look seriously stylish doing it.
1. Blue light glasses
As we bid our digital detoxes goodbye and head back into the land of endless hours spent at the computer, this is where blue light glasses come in. Taking the edge off by filtering some of the blue light emissions from our digital devices, returning to work has never looked so good with these polished frames. Not only a real lifesaver for your eyes, but a subtle style statement – take this as your sign to switch to specs.
2. A planner you’ll actually use
There is nothing quite like a fresh yearly planner sitting pretty on your desk to get you motivated for the year ahead. Not just a place to jot down notes, your planner is where the magic happens – think professional goals, organised to-do lists, and in-built calendars to get you ripe and ready for a productive work year. Because together, there is no limit to what you and your trusty planner can accomplish!
3. Reusable coffee cup
Make the most of that office coffee machine this year with a sustainable, reusable coffee cup. Whether your caffeine buzz starts at home, at the local cafe on your morning commute, or a quick dash to the kitchenette, let me tell you, life is better (for you and the planet) with a keep cup.
4. Tech accessories
With all the gadgets and gizmos we have to keep track of these days, it’s worth investing in tech accessories that are functional and stylish, protective and personality-packed. Be honest – who doesn’t want a phone case that lets your phone stand up on its own?
5. Lunchbox, but make it chic
If your New Year’s resolution sounded something like, “I’m meal-prepping so I can actually bring lunch to work every day”, this one’s for you. We all know how those Sunday arvos meant for prep can… well, not exactly go to plan. That’s where these chic lunchbox options come in – stylish, practical, and ready to make your weekday lunches effortless. Easy to rinse, repeat, and look good doing it, five days a week.
6. Laptop-friendly bag
Want to be ‘that girl’ in the office this year? Start with a work bag that turns heads, stands the test of time, and last but not least, actually fits your laptop. Whether you’re a slouchy hobo bag, a structured silhouette, or statement-making kinda girl, a decent work bag is one thing an office siren cannot go without.
7. Emotional support waterbottle
Last but not least, and this is the one we really can’t live without – every nine-to-fiver needs an emotional support waterbottle. Sip your way through your workday with a trusty drink bottle that’s built for busy days. Choose a funky shape, a metallic texture, or keep it cool and simple, just pick one that speaks to you, and it’ll be with you everywhere you go, office and otherwise.
Imagery: @baileynelson / @inserifdesign / @amandakarolinel
