Bags of room: The best tote bags to carry anywhere
A timeless sartorial sidekick, invest in a tote bag you’ll wear with everything year-round
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‘It’ bags are a widespread fashion phenomenon. From the Gucci 1955 crossbody bag and the iconic Lady Dior to mini bags like Jacquemus’ candy-coloured Le Chiquito, the most coveted bag of the season changes, well, seasonally. Yet, while we’re always ready to add to our collections with the trendy silhouettes of the latest ‘It’ bag, it is handy to have one versatile silhouette in your wardrobe. The handbag equivalent of wardrobe essentials like Oxford shirts, black dresses, and trench coats, tote bags are the trusty friend you’ll turn to day after day, year after year. So, when it comes to investing in one, it pays to do your research.
Generally roomy enough to fit all your essentials, most tote bags also come equipped with comfortable and sturdy shoulder straps or top handles. They also offer a wide variety of fabric options – from polished leather and nylon to canvas and even crochet.
Whether you’re headed to the office with your laptop and lunch in tow, to the park for a summer picnic, or are off to a sunny locale stocked up with beach essentials, a tote bag is the ideal choice. So ditch those flimsy cotton shoppers and shop our pick the best long-lasting tote bags.
Bottega Veneta Andiamo tote bag
Matthieu Blazy reimagined Bottega Veneta’s house codes to create the ever-popular Andiamo tote bag. Made using the label’s signature intrecciato technique in black leather, the bag is embellished with eye-catching gold knot hardware. With a name that translates to ‘let’s go’, this bag’s retro shape is perfect for holding all the essentials you need for a workday in the city.
Prada Crochet Tote Bag
Toeing the line between playfully modern and bohemian retro, there’s a reason crochet is a trend that refuses to fade – and this Prada tote bag is a perfect way to dip your toe in. Crocheted in a vibrant orangey-red straw, with the iconic triangle logo woven in, this tote bag screams summer. Pair with a summer dress and straw hat for a sojourn to the beach or farmers’ market.
Louis Vuitton Neverfull
One of Louis Vuitton’s best-selling bags, the Neverfull has been a cult favourite since it was first introduced in 2007. Made from a monogrammed canvas with a cowhide trim and side laces that can be cinched, it is spacious and roomy. The deceivingly delicate handles are capable of withstanding more than you’d think and also fit comfortably over the shoulders. This timeless classic also features a removable pouch that makes internal organisation easy and doubles up as a clutch.
Dior Book Tote
Another classic, Dior’s Book Tote is an amalgamation of the heritage label’s archives. The instantly recognisable cotton-canvas bag is embroidered with an ecru and blue Toile de Jouy motif with Dior’s signature monogram splashed across the front. An excellent option for carrying all your essentials, you can even personalise yours with your name or initials.
Stella McCartney Frayme Tote Bag
Opt for a feel-good vegan alternative to animal leather with Stella McCartney’s Frayme tote bag. Inspired by the brand’s classic codes, this dusty blue tote is framed by an oversized chain and features a metal hook fastening and long, supple shoulder strap for added comfort.
The Row Park Tote
Supple calf leather and a slouchy shape make this tote bag from The Row subtly luxurious and infinitely versatile. The tan exterior is stamped with the label’s moniker while the interior is lined with buttery suede. The spacious and understated bag can easily fit your laptop, a book, and other office essentials.
Gucci Ophidia Tote
Crafted from cream GG Supreme canvas, Gucci’s Ophidia tote is an all-time favourite. Outlined with leather trims and punctuated with the label’s signature equestrian-inspired red and green web stripe, this tote bag plays beautifully into fashion’s logomania. A heritage bag that’s sure to make commuting a breeze.
Marc Jacobs The Monogram Tote Bag
Tote bags are practically synonymous with Marc Jacobs. If you’re tired of seeing bags emblazoned with ‘The Tote Bag’ on the tube, opt for this cotton denim iteration instead. Plastered with the brand’s monogram, this light blue tote bag is also embellished with a logo patch and features multiple internal pockets, two handles and a detachable shoulder strap for added versatility.
Tusting Alice Tote
Tusting, the renowned British heritage brand, has been crafting premium leather goods since 1875 and each one of its designs is beautifully designed and expertly finessed. The Alice Tote is a case in point, made from a gorgeous Italian suede with a gentle slouch that is perfect for throwing over your shoulder whether in the city or countryside. Effortlessly chic and the perfect balance of relaxed but smart, we particularly love the luxurious chocolate shade.
Chloé Large Woody tote bag
A brilliantly simple design with clean lines and a minimal silhouette, Chloé’s Woody tote bag is one for all occasions. The woven linen body is elevated with leather trims and a logo-detailed ribbon. Pair with a breezy co ord set and sandals for the perfect summer holiday look.
Khaite Lotus tote bag
Khaite’s Lotus tote bag is inspired by the unstructured fluidity of a scarf. The sculptural folds are crafted from olive green textured leather suede lending the unlined bag an undefinable cool and chic aesthetic. Pair yours with plain or bright relaxed fit trousers and a matching oversized jumper.
Coperni Heart-Shaped Tote Bag
You can always count on Coperni to deliver unique and unexpected takes on accessories (remember its uber-cool glass bags?). This heart-shaped tote definitely doesn’t disappoint on that front. Crafted in black calf leather with a discreet silver logo stamped on the front, the Parisian label’s tote bag is the perfect subtly bold and roomy choice.
Alaïa One Piece Bag
First came the naked dresses, then the shoes, and now Alaïa’s addition to the barely-there aesthetic takes shape in this open-knit mesh bag with leather trims. The extra large hobo bag features a leather knot fastening and a detachable zipped pouch to hold your valuables safely. Wear yours to the beach with strappy sandals.
Loewe Puzzle Fold Tote
Practicality wins every time when it comes to bags and this Loewe Puzzle Fold tote toes the line between form and function beautifully. Inspired by the brand’s famed crossbody bag, it’s crafted from leather cut into geometric panels that collapse flat. Lightweight and discreetly embossed with Loewe branding, think of it as the perfect travel companion.
Saint Laurent East West Tote
Clean silhouette, smooth unlined leather, and skinny shoulder straps combine in this Saint Laurent shopping tote to make the minimal bag of dreams. The subtle beige colourway paired with a small stamped logo make this bag ideal for the quiet luxury aficionado. Pair yours with everything – trousers and crisps shirts to mini skirts and boots.
Burberry Highlands Tote
A ludicrously capacious bag, you’ll have to restrain yourself from filling Burberry’s Highlands tote bag with everything and the kitchen sink. Crafted from a cotton linen blend in Burberry’s iconic check print with a coated finish for ultimate weatherproofing, what else could you want from a tote bag?
Longchamp Le Pliage
No tote bag edit is complete without a mention of Longchamp’s Le Pliage. Launched in 1993, the foldable canvas bag was inspired by origami. Go for a greener option with this iteration made from recycled canvas with cowhide leather trims and gold metallic hardware. A bonafide wardrobe staple, the bag comes with a snap button, zip closure, and inside pockets in a plethora of colours.
Etro Love Trotter tote bag
Etro’s paisley tote bag makes standing out easy. Emblazoned with the brand’s Pegasus logo surrounded by pretty print motifs, the navy blue cotton body is structured with leather borders and sleek top handles. Small enough for everyday convenience but surprisingly roomy.
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