Whether you are a college student, corporate baddie, or a traveler, a durable tote bag is a necessity in your wardrobe.
I have been victim of the Vogue and Business Insider recommendations; all of which are probably sponsored. I am super picky with my bags. I want them to be stylish, durable, comfortable to wear, and practical. Is that too much to ask for in today’s world?
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite bags that I’ve used for a multitude of occassions:
Best Overall: Cuyana System Tote 13-inch
I first heard about this brand when Meghan Markle was spotted wearing the brand in 2019. Their bags are made from Italian leather and is made 100% of sustainable materials. I purchased the System Tote because I liked that it came with the option to customize the interior. You can purchase the laptop sleeve, extra pouches, flap bag, and adjustable straps to customize it to your liking and for your efficiency. Although it is expensive at $328 as a base price, it is well worth the splurge. I have had mine for 4 years now with not a single scratch or sign of aging! It is available in a 13-inch and 16-inch lengths, pebbled or croc leather, and many colors!
Best for Travel: MZ Wallace Metro Tote Deluxe
I LOVE this bag. I have it in three colors (Quartz Pearl, Black, and Sandshell). I am a professional overpacker; so, my bags and suitcases are exploding when I travel. What I love: (1) has a pocket on the side that you can unzip to create a sleeve. This allows you to put the tote on your carry-on luggage so you can lug it around hands-free! (2) the handles are extra-padded and reinforced with leather so that it is more durable and comfortable to carry. (3) So many pockets! 5 exterior and 6 interior. You can hoard as much as you want. (4) There are protective feet on the bottom (5) It comes with a laptop sleeve and shoe bag (6) THE BEST PART: The zip top extends, so you have around 5 more inches of height that you can stuff into the bag. Seriously. This bag is chef’s kiss.
Best Luxury Splurge: Goyard Bellechasse Biaude PM Bag
Goyard is oversaturated today; but, this tote is one that you probably haven’t seen on the street. I snagged a limited edition version in Monaco last year and am so glad I did. It has a structured bottom, a cover for rain, and a clasp. It also is very spacious so you can fit your laptop, paperwork, pencil case, cosmetics bag, and more. The Bellechasse Biaude Bag feels way more durable than the Anjou or Artois bags because it is better constructed; the handles are not sewn directly onto the bag (easy to tear), there are reinforced bottom corners, and the leather on the body is thicker and less flexible. Tip: You can find them second-hand!
Best Priced: Longchamp Le Pliage
Yes, $145 is still steep, I know. But for the quality and durability, this bag is better-priced than most others on the market. It is super simple with only one little pocket inside. But that is the beauty of the bag! You can buy a bag organizer on amazon if you want more structure. I prefer the medium bag to the large version because my 13-inch macbook fits perfectly and my items don’t move around so much. Tip: I purchased all of my Longchamp bags from outlet stores and T.J. Maxx. Saved around 40-50% buying this way!
Best for Work + Workouts: Lululemon New Parent Tote Bag
Don’t let “parent” deter you from buying this bag. I used to work at Lululemon and this bag is better than any other gym bag they sell. First, it comes with every possible accessory: a removable strap, removable pouch that converts into a crossbody bag, washable + water repellent pad that is meant for changing diapers but I use at parks, benches, etc. Second, it comes with tons of pockets, even a laptop space! There are separated compartments so that you can organize quickly and easily. You can stick your gym clothes on one side, your work items in another, and still have space to put your lunch and huge Stanley bottle on the side. 10/10 workout bag.
Best Backpack: Tumi Celina Backpack
Tumi is renowned for their high quality bags and suitcases. I personally do not find backpacks to be very stylish but this Tumi Celina backpack does the trick. Not only does it look great, but is utilitarian. Key features include: (1) compartmentalized spaces for laptop, water bottle, smartphone, and luggage (2) top handle and adjustable shoulder straps (3) Tumi Tracer. I have had a Tumi backpack since I was in middle school and I definitely will continue using this brand’s backpacks.
Best Farmer’s Market Tote: L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Open-Top
Because Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy used this bag, you should use it too. It is super durable, handcrafted in Maine, customizable, and perfect to haul heavy items. I use mine for the farmer’s markets but it is often used as a school bag, beach bag, and grocery bag too! I like the large size with long handles. I can fit all of my weekly groceries and the long handles allow me to put it on my shoulder when I walk home. This bag has been viral on TikTok for months and for good reason! Make sure to get a cheeky monogram for $8!
Best on Trend Bag for the Fall: Madewell Shopper Tote In Soft Grain
This bag is a new addition to my closet; I love the dark brown and suede. It feels super luxurious and on trend. So far, I haven’t had any issues with the bag. You can style it to your liking – with collapsible sides or not. It can fit my 13-inch macbook, pencil case, makeup bag, and wallet with no problem. If you are looking for a fall work bag, this would be my rec! The bag comes in black and tan leather if you are looking for a non-suede option. Remember, if you are a student, you get 15% off!
Thank you for reading and remember that you don’t need a new bag every season! I recommend these bags because they are high-quality, durable, and stand the test of time. They are closet staples!
XX,
Isabelle
