Somewhere between weekender bags and fashionable tiny purses lies a classic style that effortlessly delivers on both fronts: the tote. Defined by two over-the-shoulder handles and a deep rectangular structure, totes have become much more than utilitarian carryalls. Today, they are powerful accessories that are always in style — that’s why we’ve rounded up the best tote bags for work, travel, school, and everything in between.
From a classy oversized Mansur Gavriel handbag to a Lululemon favorite, these cute tote bags are worth adding to your rotation. Each of our picks is approved for all occasions — and ready to join you on everything from crowded commutes and gym trips to shopping excursions and nights out on the town.
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Somewhere between weekender bags and fashionable tiny purses lies a classic style that effortlessly delivers on both fronts: the tote. Defined by two over-the-shoulder handles and a deep rectangular structure, totes have become much more than utilitarian carryalls. Today, they are powerful accessories that are always style savvy, not to mention oversized handbags are 2023’s trendiest bag. (Speaking of trends, there’s an Instagram account dedicated to the revival of L.L. Bean’s iconic Boat and Tote bags.) That’s why we’ve rounded up the best tote bags for work, travel, school, and everything in between.
From a classy oversized Mansur Gavriel handbag to a Lululemon favorite, these cute tote bags are worth adding to your rotation. Each of our picks is approved for all occasions — aka ready to join you on everything from crowded commutes and gym trips to shopping excursions and nights out on the town.
Lululemon Quilted Grid Tote Bag 26L, $, available at Lululemon
Lululemon Daily Multi-Pocket Canvas Tote Bag 20L
Stormy weather is no match for your commute or weekend trip, thanks to Lululemon’s trusty lightweight tote. It’s made of water-repellant fabric and has plenty of pockets inside and out to organize all your stuff.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Daily Multi-Pocket Canvas Tote Bag 20L, $, available at Lululemon
Coachtopia Loop Mini Puffy Tote
Did someone say its spring? Coach did! Freshen up your spring wardrobe with Coach’s latest Coachtopia drop: this pretty-in-pink puffy tote.
Shop Coachtopia at Coach
Coachtopia Coachtopia Loop Mini Puffy Tote, $, available at Coach
Lululemon Quilted Grid Tote Bag 26L
UNHIDE LATER
Stormy weather is no match for your commute or weekend trip, thanks to this bag. Lululemon’s trusty lightweight tote has a zipper instead of a snap closure, so your items are safely secured.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Quilted Grid Tote Bag 26L, $, available at Lululemon
FP Movement Quilted Carryall
If you’re more of an active girlie, here is the tote for you. This slouchy pouch will carry you anywhere you want to go, whether you’re headed to the gym or the farmers’ market.
Shop FP Movement
FP Movement Quilted Carryall, $, available at Free People
By Anthropologie Mini Hollace Tote
This number is designed to be your most loved style — pair it with a leather jacket or dress, and carry it everywhere from the office to a park picnic.
Shop by Anthropologie at Anthropologie
By Anthropologie Mini Hollace Tote, $, available at Anthropologie
Lux & Nyx Small Origami Ultra Satin
Make a statement with Lux & Nyx’s origami bag that will effortlessly take you from day to night. Plus, if the small size won’t fit all your stuff, you have two other sizes and six other colors to choose from. Talk about making something for everyone!
Shop Lux & Nyx
Lux & Nyx Small Origami Ultra Satin, $, available at Lux & Nyx
Hobo Bags Sheila East-West Tote
Haven’t you heard? Boho-chic bags are in. We love Hobo’s leather rendition of the classic tote with not one, but two different ways to carry.
Shop Hobo Bags
Hobo Bags Sheila East-West Tote, $, available at Hobo Bags
Charles & Keith Tubular Slouchy Tote Bag
This funky tote from Charles & Keith has plenty of room to store all your baggage and looks chic doing so.
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Charles & Keith Tubular Slouchy Tote Bag, $, available at Charles & Keith
Matt & Nat Abbi Purity Vegan Tote
This Matt & Nat bag isn’t just about looking good when headed to work; it’s also about feeling good with your purchase. The interior lining of the bag is made from 100% recycled water bottles, and the company is completely vegan and cruelty-free. If this Barbie pink isn’t your color, there are six others to choose from.
Shop Matt & Nat
Matt & Nat Abbi Vegan Tote, $, available at Matt & Nat
MZ Wallace Small Metro Tote Deluxe
She may be small, but she is mighty. MZ Wallace’s Small Metro Tote is in fact smaller than the medium and larger sizes, but it still holds a whole lotta stuff (and secrets) within its quilted exterior. We love MZ Wallace bags for the organizational aspects of the interior, including pockets, zippers, and even an extra zippered bag!
Shop MZ Wallace
MZ WALLACE Small Metro Tote Deluxe, $, available at MZ Wallace
Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote
Everlane fans assemble: The brand recently launched its latest tote bag, the Luxe Italian Leather Tote, and it’s oh so chic. The handbag is sleek and spacious, has a leather-coved metal snap-button closure, and features two over-the-shoulder straps for more support when you’re on the go. It’s a good work bag since it has ample space for office essentials with a polished silhouette.
Shop Everlane
Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote, $, available at Everlane
Dagne Dover Kal Drawstring Tote
Pair your favorite puffer jacket with a coordinating puffer tote bag for a trendy ensemble that also looks cozy – and that’s over 50% off right now.
Shop Dagne Dover
Dagne Dover Kal Drawstring Tote, $, available at Dagne Dover
Etsy LinenFox Large Tote Bag
We love the relaxed, elegant vibe and all-encompassing size of this handmade tote crafted from 100% organic Baltic linen.
Shop LinenFox at Etsy
Linenfox Large Linen Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy
L.L.Bean Hunter’s Open-Top Tote Bag
For a more modern take on the OG tote, try L.L.Bean’s sturdy polyester version in a statement camo print — this timeless workhouse carryall is available in three size tiers, suits just about any style, and holds a boatload of stuff.
Shop L.L.Bean
L.L. Bean Hunter’s Tote Bag, Open-Top, $, available at L.L. Bean
J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote In Leather
Invest in this leather bag and be amazed at how many years go by using it. The Montauk Tote is one of the best totes for travel with its roominess and elevated appearance. It’ll be your new staple for weekend trips and everything in between.
Shop J.Crew
J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote In Leather, $, available at J.Crew
Baggu Duck Bag
A spring tote embroidered with flowers will bring a bit of sunshine to your everyday.
Shop Baggu
Baggu Duck Bag, $, available at Baggu
Weedie Parker Baby Bodega Bag
Tote bags aren’t always for toting around lots of stuff. Sometimes all you need is a baby tote just for running errands. If you’re feeling the bag but not the color scheme, you can snag a custom baby bodega. There’s even a full-size bodega bag if you need more room, and it can be customized!
Shop Weedie Parker
Weedie Parker Baby Bodega Bag, $, available at Edie Parker
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote
You might recognize Mansur Gavriel by its iconic bucket bags. However, the brand also has a list of stylish handbags like the Everyday Soft Tote for you to carry around your belongings fashionably.
Shop Mansur Gavriel
Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote, $, available at Mansur Gavriel
Isabel Marant Yenky Tote
Parisian designer Isabel Marant designs attire and accessories for busy women on the go. This denim tote bag falls under that bracket with its clean-cut design that matches any ‘fit and occasion. Plus, its canvas lining protects from any spillage.
Shop Isabel Marant at Saks Fifth Avenue
Isabel Marant Small Yenky Canvas Logo Tote Bag, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Madewell The Medium Transport Tote
One cute tote bag that will never fail you: Madewell’s Transport Tote. It’s a cult favorite with 4.4 stars and over 1,100 reviews.
Shop Madewell
Madewell The Medium Transport Tote, $, available at Madewell
Amazon Women’s Corduroy Cow Print Tote Bag
This quirky cow print tote bag made of corduroy adds a bit of patterned fun while still being neutral enough to go with any outfit.
Shop LHMTQVK at Amazon
LHMTQVK Women’s Reusable Corduroy Tote Bag, $, available at Amazon
WARP Hexella Large Tote Emerald
Get ready to look your best with Hexella’s 100% goat skin leather tote. The geometric-looking handbag has a luxe appeal with plated hardware and includes a dust bag and storage box.
Shop WARP
WARP Hexella Large Tote Emerald, $, available at WARP
Marc Jacobs The Jacquard Medium Tote Bag
What could be more iconic than a tote bag with the words “the tote bag” scrawled across it? This Marc Jacobs purse is a must-have piece for its laid-back aesthetic.
Shop Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs The Jacquard Medium Tote Bag, $, available at Marc Jacobs
Eric Javits Squishee St.Tropez Straw Tote
No need to actually be in St. Tropez to channel French seaside vibes. You can do it anywhere with this mid-size tote crafted with the lightweight and durable Squishee braid straw.
Shop Eric Javits
Eric Javits Squishee® St.Tropez Straw Tote, $, available at Eric Javits
Find Me Now Ruffle Shoulder Bag
Find Me Now created the airy beach bag you need for all your weekend vacays.
Shop Find Me Now
FIND ME NOW Ruffle Shoulder Bag, $, available at Find Me Now
Mlouye Sera Tall Tote Mini Bag
Consider adding this striking multicolor statement tote bag to your handbag collection. It costs a fraction of the price of a luxury handbag while still looking luxe. Plus, the drawstring top securely holds your items, so nothing gets lost during transit.
Shop Mlouye
Mlouye Sera Tall Tote Mini, $, available at Mlouye
Karl Lagerfeld Paris Noveau Iridescent Tote
Opt for an iridescent style from Karl Lagerfeld Paris for a spunky spin on classic leather tote bags. The rainbow-esque tote has pockets for your cards and enough room to hold all your knickknacks while maintaining its whimsical flair.
Shop Karl Lagerfeld
Karl Lagerfeld Paris Nouveau Iridescent Tote, $, available at Karl Lagerfeld Paris
& Other Stories Vertical Mini Tote Bag
We’re ready to take this chic radiant orange tote to weekend brunches and weddings for many seasons to come.
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& Other Stories Vertical Mini Tote Bag, $, available at & Other Stories
Charles & Keith Willa Knitted Tote Bag
This knitted tote from Charles & Keith has plenty of room to store all your baggage and looks chic doing so.
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Charles & Keith Willa Knitted Tote Bag, $, available at Charles & Keith
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Mini Tote Bag
If you’re an avid Rebecca Minkoff fan, you’ll notice the signature buckle clasp and tassel. We love this mini tote version with both a crossbody strap and handles.
Shop Rebecca Minkoff at Nordstrom Rack
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Mini Tote Bag, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Ralph Lauren Polo Bear Twill Shopper Tote
Ralph Lauren’s iconic Polo Bear is one of the most adorable, indelible brand images out there. It captures the vibe and — always fashionably dressed in preppy attires of knit sweaters and loafers. Although it’s usually featured on the brand’s crewnecks, now you can get it on a tote.
Shop Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren Polo Bear Twill Shopper Tote, $, available at Ralph Lauren
Ganni Green Canvas Tote Bag
Add a burst of radiance to your gym ‘fit or your weekend uniform with a Kelly green GANNI tote. It has the quirky touch of the brand’s signature smiley face replicated as a tennis ball. Talk about personality.
Shop Ganni on SSENSE
Ganni SSENSE-Exclusive Green Canvas Tote, $, available at SSENSE
Rebecca Minkoff Suede Tote
If you’re an avid Rebecca Minkoff fan, you’ll notice the signature buckle clasp and tassel. Unlike many totes, it also features a magnetic snap closure. No need to zip your bag (or let it all hang open) when you’re on the go.
Shop Rebecca Minkoff at Saks Fifth Avenue
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Suede Tote, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag
Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag, $, available at Amazon
Free People Roma Suede Tote Bag
Introducing a stylish suede tote bag with a touch of carefree slouchiness. It will become your staple for those busy days when you don’t have time to play organizational Tetris and instead need to just toss your essentials in and go. Perfectly oversized while still looking polished, it’s also good for shopping trips and farmer’s market visits.
Shop Free People
Free People Roma Suede Tote Bag, $, available at Free People
Lululemon Clean Lines Toe Bag 22L
Stormy weather is no match for your commute or weekend trip, thanks to this bag. Lululemon’s trusty lightweight tote has a zipper instead of a snap closure, so your items are safely secured.
Plus, it’s created from water-repellent material — no need to worry about spills or splashes. The multifunctional tote also features interior compartments and a special pocket designed to hold your water bottle.
Shop Lululemon
Lululemon Clean Lines Tote Bag 22L, $, available at Lululemon
Béis The Everyday Pet Tote Bag
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For pet parents who can’t bear to leave their fur babies behind, Béis created the multi-wear tote bag. The laptop-friendly accessory has multiple slip pockets, a key leash, shoulder straps, and a leash with removable sherpa landing pad for your pet. Now you can take your work and pet with you everywhere.
Shop Béis
Béis The Everyday Pet Tote, $, available at Béis
Charles & Keith Osiris Swirl-Print Metallic Accent Tote
Feast your eyes on the most aesthetically pleasing tote bag there is. Charles & Keith created a faux-leather statement piece swirled with rainbow hues and fastened with gold-toned hardware. You’d be surprised to know that the luxe tote is affordable at $93.
Shop Charles & Keith
Charles & Keith Osiris Swirl-Print Metallic Accent Tote, $, available at Charles & Keith
Béis The Everyday Pet Tote Bag
For pet parents who can’t bear to leave their fur babies behind, Béis created the multi-wear tote bag. The laptop-friendly accessory has multiple slip pockets, a key leash, shoulder straps, and a leash with removable sherpa landing pad for your pet. Now you can take your work and pet with you everywhere.
Shop Béis
Béis The Everyday Pet Tote, $, available at Béis
Tarte Sugar Rush Holographic Tote
Plastic bags may be out, but holographic totes made from non-toxic, luminous-jelly materials aren’t.
Sugar Rush Holographic Tote Bag, $, available at Tarte
Etsy Thank You Shopping Bag Tote
Give a cheeky nod to New York’s plastic bag ban with this takeout-style tote crafted from a durable, double-layer canvas.
ChubbyMishoStore Thank You T-Shirt Reusable Shopping Bag, $, available at Etsy
Urban Outfitters Millie Puffy Mini Tote Bag
Pair your favorite puffer with a coordinating puffer tote bag for a trendy ensemble that also looks crazy cozy. The adorable mini is a best-seller from Urban Outfitters.
Shop Urban Outfitters
Urban Outfitters Millie Puffy Mini Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Rothy’s The Essential Tote
The comfy-chic shoe brand’s sustainable handbag launch brought us this sleek stripe tote crafted from 100% recycled marine plastic materials.
Rothy’s The Essential Tote, $, available at Rothy’s
Baggu Standard Baggu
It’s tough to pick just one of Baggu’s classic reusable bags to include in our tote hit list — but this multi-metallic style ranks high as a must-have, disco-vibe essential.
H&M Straw Bag
Straw bags don’t always have to be the stereotypical brown hue. This playful one has rainbow sherbet vibes, but don’t let the sweet look fool you. At 15 inches tall, there’s enough room to stuff plenty of beach supplies.
H&M Straw Bag, $, available at H&M
WorldLyda Canvas Crossbody Tote
This delightfully rainbow-striped and durable canvas style wields a bonus crossbody strap for extra secure toting.
Worldlyda Canvas Crossbody Tote, $, available at Amazon
Mango Leather Shopper Bag
Envision a chic businesswoman with this suede tote. The chain double handle is an elevated touch to the usual canvas versions.
Etsy Granny Crochet Tote
Exude covetable granny style with this handmade crochet bag.
KNITANDCROCHETWORLD Granny Crochet Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy
Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag
Everlane’s elevated version of the tote bag is crafted from buttery-smooth Italian leather that radiates effortless polish. The roomy shape makes it perfect for work, school, or as a daily tote.
Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag, $, available at Everlane
Free People Cloud Commuter Tote
Meet your beloved quilted puffer coat in its slouchy tote form. It has a zippered interior with a padded laptop sleeve, so your daily essentials will be safe and cushy.
Free People Cloud Commuter Tote, $, available at Free People
Girlfriend Collective Provence Please Recycle Tote Bag
This recyclable tote was created for organization lovers. You can store all your little knick-knacks with the five pockets of various sizes.
Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag
Channel your best summer style with this warm-weather essential tote crafted from woven jute braided with fabric fragments.
Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Urban Outfitters Tie-Dye Washed Canvas Tote
Finally, a tie-dye tote (crafted from durable cotton canvas) to complete your head-to-toe tie-dye ‘fits in 2020.
Urban Outfitters Washed Canvas Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote
We said EVERY occasion…
Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote, $, available at Opening Ceremony
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