Treat Yo’ Self: A Totally Great Tote Bag
Trends come and go, but a good tote is forever.
Have you seen those TikToks about how much women can carry in their hands? If not, check it out here. It’s impressive. For the rest of us mere mortals, I have rounded up six excellent tote bags to help carry the load and look good while doing it.
L.L. Bean Leather Trimmed Waxed Canvas Tote ($129) – L.L. Bean is famous for their classic boat tote, and while the original is iconic, I'm partial to this elevated version with leather straps. The waxed canvas that develops a lovely patina with age is also a nice touch.
Alex Mill Perfect Weekday Tote ($175) – I have been stalking this bag for months. I love the bright color options and modern monogramming. It looks sturdy but not stiff, and I appreciate the double strap option and snap closures to keep your goodies from falling out.
Sea Bags Medium Tote ($175-$230) – I’ve had my vintage tote (shown below) for years, and it makes me feel like I’m ready to set sail off the coast of Newport, RI. Hey, a girl can dream! Not only do I love my Sea Bags (full disclosure: I also have a wristlet and a ditty bag), but their story is pretty amazing. Every bag is made in Maine from recycled sails.
Left to right: L.L. Bean Waxed Canvas Tote; Alex Mill Weekday Tote; Sea Bags Medium Tote (similar to image)
Ann Mashburn Zoe Leather Tote ($695) – Another bag I've been stalking. (Yes, I have a problem.) But honestly? No notes. This style and color is absolute perfection. You could wear sweats with this bag and still look put together. It’s one of those confidence-boosting pieces that says, “I have my shit together” even when you don’t.
Cuyana Classic Easy Tote ($278) – I have a friend who has this bag and loves it. I get it. The leather is soft and buttery. Like the Alex Mill tote, it features double straps for carrying flexibility. Cuyana offers multiple colors, though I think they are missing the rich brown color like the Ann Mashburn tote.
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag ($165) - You see this bag everywhere and probably for good reason. I'll admit, I've never been tempted to buy one myself, but this brick orange color might just change my mind.
Left to right: Ann Mashburn Zoe Tote; Cuyana Easy Tote; Longchamp Le Pliage Tote