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12 Best Designer Tote Bags

There’s something to be said about the respectable tote bag. Generously sized and featuring practical pocket space, there’s a sense of preparedness that the Neverfull or Musubi Mini offer us. 

Those who own one automatically exude a go-getter attitude. They’re ready to conquer the day, whether that be a long afternoon of endless lectures, meetings, or a lengthy catch-up with a friend. 

From Acne Studios to Louis Vuitton, there are hundreds of designer tote bags to choose from. They’re a great alternative for those who need to carry more since most can easily accommodate a water bottle, a compact wallet, and a few notebooks.

Ideal for traveling and long days, tote bags are one of the few luxury purchases that require zero justifications. 

Care for some recommendations? If so, we’ve put together a list of the best designer tote bags that are tote-ally in season. 

Finding The Best Designer Tote Bags 

The best designer tote bags are known to be convenient, practical, and provide generous storage space. With that in mind, it seems counterintuitive to purchase a carry-on that doesn’t meet these three requirements. 

The size you need usually depends on the belongings you typically carry. Versatile designs feature pockets, adjustable buckles, zippers, and magnetic clasps. Tote bags devoid of additional storage space are typically considered a major red flag. 

Design is another factor worth considering. After all, you don’t want to be stuck carrying an ugly tote bag. We highly recommend opting for monochrome hues and traditional silhouettes.

Abstract shapes and loud prints are often at risk of going out of style. Of course, this may not apply to maximalist fashionistas who live for big and bold designs. 

The 12 Best Designer Tote Bags 

Haute couture is known to be controversial. Tote bags, on the other hand, are typically viewed as a classic wardrobe staple that’s devoid of unnecessary details.

Of course, novelty tote bags are considered a thing in high fashion, but most trendsetters opt for traditional silhouettes compared to avant-garde art pieces. 

From Dior to Fendi, the tote bag has evolved past the traditional cotton carry-on. It’s been reimagined over the years and is now considered a staple for the modern trendsetter.

Keep in mind that most versions are constructed with heavy-duty canvas and leather. 

If you can’t be bothered to sift through hundreds of luxury brands, we’ll keep things short and sweet. Here are 12 of the best designer tote bags that score major points when it comes to fashion and functionality. 

#1: Christian Dior pre-owned mini Oblique Book Tote bag - Neutrals



Brand: Christian Dior
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $3095
Color: Neutrals

Navy blue/beige canvas pre-owned mini Oblique Book Tote bag from Christian Dior Pre-Owned featuring signature Oblique monogram pattern, embroidered logo to the front, two top handles, open top and main compartment. POSITIVELY CONSCIOUS: Purchasing this item continues its narrative and reduces the environmental impact of using new resources. You can be confident that you’re making a better choice for the Planet..


#2: Marc Jacobs The Tote shearling-trim bag - Black



Brand: Marc Jacobs
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $450
Color: Black

Black/white sheep skin The Tote shearling-trim bag from Marc Jacobs featuring shearling trim, crinkled finish, logo print to the front, two rounded top handles, adjustable detachable shoulder strap, top zip fastening, main compartment and logo patch to the rear.


#3: Khaite Black Osa Medium Circle Tote Bag



Brand: Khaite
Retailer: Ssense
Price: $1700
Color: 200 BLACK

Buffed calfskin tote bag in black. · Twin carry handles · Logo engraved in gold-tone at face · Removable zip pouch at interior · Unlined · Gold-tone hardware · H14.25 x W21.5 x D9.25 in Supplier color: Black


#4: Gucci - Ophidia Web-stripe Gg Supreme Canvas Tote Bag - Womens - Grey Multi



Brand: Gucci
Retailer: MatchesFashion
Price: $1060
Color: Grey Multi

Gucci - Gucci's taupe-grey Ophidia tote bag is trimmed with a signature red and green Web stripe inspired by the straps on traditional horse saddles. It's crafted in Italy from GG Supreme canvas with a vintage rhombus pattern and punctuated with a gold logo plaque. Carry it by the grained-leather top handles for days on the go.


#5: Balenciaga Black The Simpsons Edition Shopper Tote Bag



Brand: Balenciaga
Retailer: Ssense
Price: $1750
Color: 1092 BLACK

Crinkled calfskin tote bag in black featuring graphics and text printed in multicolor at face. · Twin grained calfskin carry handles · Logo printed in white at back face · Zip pocket at interior · Textile lining · H18.5 x W18.5 x D7 in Part of the Balenciaga x The Simpsons collaboration. © 20th Television Supplier color: Black


#6: Salvatore Ferragamo The Studio Soft tote bag - Black



Brand: Salvatore Ferragamo
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $2601
Color: Black

Black calf leather The Studio Soft tote bag from SALVATORE FERRAGAMO featuring two rounded top handles, adjustable detachable shoulder strap, Gancini flip-lock fastening, gold-tone hardware, metal feet, internal zip-fastening pocket and internal logo patch.


#7: Alexander McQueen The Bundle logo tote bag - Black



Brand: Alexander McQueen
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $1190
Color: Black

Black The Bundle logo tote bag from Alexander McQueen featuring logo print to the front, two long top handles, front zip-fastening pocket, drawstring fastening, internal logo patch and internal patch pocket.


#8: The Sant Kinchaku rectangular tote bag - Black



Brand: The Sant
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $383
Color: Black

Black calf leather Kinchaku rectangular tote bag from The Sant featuring rectangle body, top zip fastening, single twisted top handle and detachable shoulder strap.


#9: Fendi medium By The Way tote bag - F1BZJ-GRAVEL+ ANEMONE +MUL



Brand: Fendi
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $1950
Color: F1BZJ-GRAVEL+ ANEMONE +MUL

White calf leather-blend medium By The Way tote bag from FENDI featuring leather tag, silver-tone hardware, two top handles, top zip fastening and adjustable detachable shoulder strap.


#10: Tommy Hilfiger The Club tote bag - Black



Brand: Tommy Hilfiger
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $151
Color: Black

Black polyurethane The Club tote bag from TOMMY HILFIGER featuring detachable shoulder strap, two top handles, top zip fastening and main compartment.


#11: Stella McCartney x The Beatles graphic-print tote bag - White



Brand: Stella McCartney
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $750
Color: White

White/black organic cotton x The Beatles graphic-print tote bag from STELLA MCCARTNEY featuring graphic print, logo patch to the rear, two long top handles, snap fastening, main compartment and internal zip-fastening pocket. POSITIVELY CONSCIOUS: We've partnered with Good On You — an ethical agency that rates how sustainably brands perform across various people, planet and animal welfare criteria. This product comes from a Conscious brand that performs well in relation to their impact on animals..


#12: adidas logo-print tote bag - Pink



Brand: adidas
Retailer: Farfetch
Price: $76
Color: Pink

Multicolour recycled polyester-blend logo-print tote bag from adidas featuring logo print to the side, single shoulder strap, main compartment and two top handles. POSITIVELY CONSCIOUS: This Planet Conscious product is crafted from certified recycled or upcycled materials, which helps you make a better choice for the environment as they generate less energy, save water and reduce the need for new raw materials. For recycled synthetic clothing products we highly recommend using a microfibre-catching washing bag to ensure that no microplastics that can pollute water are released in the process.. POSITIVELY CONSCIOUS: We've partnered with Good On You — an ethical agency that rates how sustainably brands perform across various people, planet and animal welfare criteria. This product comes from a Conscious brand that performs well in relation to their impact on the planet, for example ensures the use of materials that limit the amount of chemicals, water and wastewater involved in production processes..


What Are the Most Popular Designer Tote Bags?

Online shopping sprees usually start with one query: “where should I even begin?” In our opinion, magazine listicles are the best way to help overcome buyer anxiety, as most countdowns feature a top-10 list of recommended goods.

For now, we’ll keep things short by only showcasing four of the most popular designer tote bags for trendsetters to consider. 

  • The Dior Oblique Embroidered Tote Bag: Printed with the brand’s signature monogram motif, this legendary bag can act as the ultimate humblebrag. 
  • The Marc Jacobs Tote Bag: For those unsure of the definition of a tote bag, Marc Jacobs provides a nifty reminder. 
  • The Khaite Circle Medium Leather Tote Bag: Cut in a trapezoid shape, this unique carry-on is considered a deviation from the classic rectangle design. 
  • The Gucci Ophidia Web-Stripe GG Supreme Tote Bag: Covered with the iconic GG print, it’s definitely a favorite among maximalist trendsetters. 

What Are Designer Tote Bags Made Of?

As previously mentioned, designer tote bags are usually constructed with genuine leather and heavy-duty canvas

Of course, it’s common to find other designs made out of different fabrics, such as cotton, polyester, nylon, wicker, and jacquard.

You can rest assured that most carry-ons are durable and resilient under stress since they’re typically made out of thick, heavy-duty materials. 

What Can Designer Tote Bags Be Used For?

There’s no need to worry about the fashion police here. Designer tote bags can be used for many different functions.

Due to their generous size and sturdy construction, they’re typically worn for long days out on the town. 

From water bottles and notebooks to hand creams and purses, tote bags can carry all your essential belongings. They can be your go-to companion for office meetings, errands, and casual dates.

In terms of occasions, this particular purse can be adapted for formal events and everyday settings, but this heavily depends on the design you currently own. 

Are Designer Tote Bags Worth It?

Featuring plenty of storage space and chic designs, not only are they practical, I think it’s safe to say that designer tote bags are a worthwhile investment.

They serve as a great alternative for those who hate the bulkiness of backpacks and the unrealistic nature of mini purses. 

This particular carry-on can fit a large number of belongings, which is excellent for trendsetters who need a bag that holds more than just their phone, wallet, and keys.

If you’re worried about the price tag, we highly recommend trying your luck at consignment shops. Online boutiques such as the Verstaire Collective and TheRealReal offer discounted prices on all designer goods. 

How To Style Designer Tote Bags

According to haute couture, it’s imperative to match your bag with your outfit.

Of course, this only complicates things if you subscribe to the ‘grab, dress, and go’ mentality side of fashion. For those in need of OOTD inspo, we’ll show you some ways to style your designer tote bag. 

If you hate the stark and stiff aesthetic of most tote bags, why not opt for a romantic alternative?

Case in point, this Dior tote bag features a floral pattern in cream and espresso beige. We highly recommend wearing a flirty summer dress to help match the bag’s flirty attitude. 

There’s no need to wear a fancy gown or bedazzled jumpsuit with your tote bag. Haute couture can be simple as well.

For instance, this stunning outfit consists of a Saint Laurent tote bag, a pair of light wash jeans, a top, and a matching cardigan.

Considered a prime example of minimalism, it’s an easy way to look stylish without unnecessary effort. 

You can never go wrong with a basic monochrome outfit. Composed of a pair of white jeans, a cream-colored blouse, and a matching Louis Vuitton bag, it’s a look that screams elegance, sophistication, and class in an uncomplicated manner. 


Looking to stay up to date on all things designer? We’ve got you covered:

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