A good tote bag is an accessory that will carry you through everything life throws at it. It should be strong enough to hold your daily essentials—including that laptop, day planner, makeup, and other beauty products—and stylish enough to transition seamlessly from errands to work to evening drinks with the girls.
For that purpose, look no further than a designer leather tote bag from one of our favorite brands. Made of full-grain leather, the best tote bags will age beautifully and hold up to everyday wear. Plus, you can rest assured that the materials used to make these versatile bags are both sustainable and cruelty-free.
Totes For Shopping
When you’re on a shopping stylish leather tote bags spree with your girlfriends, a leather tote is a sleek way to carry your new purchases. This style of bag is large enough to accommodate a few pairs of shoes, a new sweater or dress, and all the other little items you may have snatched throughout the afternoon.
Leather totes are also a great choice for commuting, as they’re durable and sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of your commute and all the errands you may need to run on the way to work or school. The best totes feature an interior divider to keep your belongings organized, and many offer a built-in laptop sleeve for your devices.
If you want to be extra prepared for your upcoming commute, you can purchase a tote with an additional removable organizer that fits into the main compartment of the bag. It’s a great way to keep your most important things within easy reach, and you can also pair it with a matching wallet for an extra layer of security.
The beauty of a leather tote is that it will develop a beautiful patina over time as it ages, which adds to its charm. If you’re looking to invest in a leather tote that will last, consider purchasing it from a brand that uses only the highest-quality hides. This includes bags from brands like Cuyana, which use a proprietary blend of leather sourced in a responsible manner.
When all-over leather feels a little too corporate for your tastes, you can also opt for a tote that mixes the material with another fabric. Khaite, for instance, turns the classic basket tote into an elevated workbag with oversized proportions and buttery leather.
Totes For Work
If you’re a frequent flyer, a tote that will fit your laptop and all of your office necessities is an indispensable accessory. Look for styles with features such as a neoprene laptop sleeve, water bottle compartments, snaps to attach an additional Cuyana Flap bag, and more.
This tote from Tory Burch is a classic, and it’s a great option for women who need to carry around a heavier load of gear during the week. It’s spacious, durable, and available in a variety of colors to match your wardrobe.