Totting Tote Bags

Tote Handbags have really reached a new height in popularity due to its “shopper tote” reincarnation.

Usually tote bags have been popular with a slightly older crowd who considered themselves too old to be lugging backpacks or messenger bags around.  But lately, tote handbags have been a very popular styled handbags sold as “shopper totes.”

The idea here is that you need a slightly larger handbag to go shopping in.  Something you keep on your shoulder while you shop that will keep your keys, notes, and maybe a snack or two contained.  If you have babies, you would have enough room to throw in a bottle and extra diaper so you could keep your large diaper bag in the car between errands.

Tote bags have come a long way from the old library book canvas bags that you’re so used to seeing.  Many tote bags have longer straps that make them comfortable to be carried over the shoulder as well as by hand.  You’ll find them in nylons and leather as often you find them in cotton canvas.  Many tote bags today will have zip tops and small pockets on the inside your important small stuff doesn’t get loss in the crowd.

Roominess is probably the one big problem with tote bags.  They’re so roomy that you’re tempted to drop everything into them.  Then, when you’re looking for that one thing, you end up practically dumping out everything else just to get it.  At any rate, here are a few of my favorite tote bags:

Kate Spade Baja Woven Straw Basket.  This straw tote bag is from her latest collection.  It has a nicely textured straw weave in the body and is finished with leather trim and gold colored hardware ($225).

Tod’s New D-Bag Grande.  You won’t go wrong with this iconic bag from Tod’s.  The bag is in sturdy leather with contrast topstitching, has a leather drawstring for you to cinch up your stuff and is finished with silver colored hardware ($1,220).

Kenneth Cole Unhinged.  This is a great leather city bag for your daily gear and is especially budget priced when you don’t want to go into the 4 digits for a tote bag.  Pick this up in black, yellow, or white.  The handles are attached with buckles that let you adjust the length so you can get just the right fit under your arm ($225).

Louis Vuitton Cabas Piano.  This tote style bag is in their brown monogram canvas with natural colored leather trim and gold toned hardware.  A zip top keeps your stuff safe inside.  The bag is lined with brown canvas on the inside and there is a cell phone pocket on the inside ($775).