An occupational hazard of being a shopping editor is that I’m constantly exposed to the very best things to buy, which—unsurprisingly—means I’m also constantly tempted to spend far more than my budget allows. This summer, however, I attempted to put myself on a shopping ban. It was going surprisingly well, too, until I spotted the carry-all tote that seemingly every chic woman worth her salt owns. Of course, I’m talking about Alex Mill’s cult tote bag.
And when I say everyone, I mean it. Gwyneth Paltrow, Tracee Ellis Ross and Julia Roberts have all been spotted carrying one, alongside countless stylish women on my Instagram feed. Its appeal lies in that elusive combination of practicality and personality. The roomy design can comfortably accommodate everything you need and the 100% heavy-duty cotton material makes it durable for every day, whilst the customisable monogram gives it a playful, personal touch—whether you opt for your initials, your dog’s name or your favourite internet abbreviation. Then there are the colours: golden khaki, deep purple, espresso brown and plenty more, making choosing just one surprisingly difficult.
Better still, the tote comes in four sizes, depending on your needs.The Weekday makes an excellent work bag, whilst the capacious Weekend is exactly what I’d want slung over my shoulder for an autumn staycation. And despite being able to fit everything but the kitchen sink, they still possess that slightly undone, effortlessly cool quality that makes a practical tote feel like a genuine fashion buy.
Keep scrolling to shop the Alex Mill tote bags currently taking over celebrity and fashion-insider wardrobes.
Shop The Alex Mill Tote Bag
The golden-khaki colourway has that slightly utilitarian feel that makes a canvas tote look effortlessly cool.
You really can’t go wrong with navy.
If your wardrobe tends to lean neutral, this is a playful way to introduce some colour.
Rich, expensive-looking and incredibly easy to style, this is the perfect pick for autumn.
Gwyneth’s colour of choice.
The ultimate wear-with-everything option.
There’s something inherently chic about olive green.
Proof that a practical bag needn’t be boring.
Pair with khaki trousers for the ultimate colour combo of 2026.
A slightly roomier version, the Weekend tote is perfect for your next staycation.
Perfect for minimalists.
So sleek.
