The 9 Best Designer Tote Bags, According To An Expert – 2024
Fashionable and convenient bags that add style and practicality to your look.
Eleonora Fiano is a seasoned fashion stylist with over 5 years of experience. Her impressive portfolio includes creating captivating fashion editorials both online and in print and collaborating with emerging brands and designers. She also attends masterclasses and webinars and keeps herself up-to-date with the latest trends in the worlds of fashion, art, cinema, and music.
Read full bio of Eleonora Fiano
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
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Let’s get real – tiny bags are good for the gram. But, what about the times when you actually need a spacious bag to fit in things? The best designer totes bags are made just for such times! Now you can look fashionable and carry your essentials in a good high-end quality tote bag. These roomy bags are easily available all over the market. So much so that making a choice gets difficult! “In every woman’s closet, the tote bag is definitely among the must-have accessories. Its main characteristic is that it is spacious and comfortable and functional, while remaining one of the most fashionable and trendy accessories of today. Models range from more classic shapes, sizes and colors to those embellished with special hardware or accessories,” says Fashion Stylist, Eleanor Fiano.
In This Article
The 9 Best Designer Tote Bags For All Your Daily Needs – 2024
1. Best Waterproof Tote Bag:MONISTA Woman Laptop Tote Bag
Upgrade your handbag collection with this spacious laptop tote bag from MONISTA and enjoy the bliss of clutter-free baggage. This multifunctional shoulder bag has 15 pockets for interior organization and stores all your essentials within the designated space, including your laptop, power bank, charger, and personal stationery. So, no more sifting through your bag when searching for a pen or a lip balm.
The combination of high-grade nylon and leather makes this tote bag wear-resistant and highly durable. The soft and thick protective compartment, elastic Velcro strap, and waterproof fabric keep your laptop protected from accidental breakage and water damage. The external USB port connects to your phone cable to provide convenient charging. Plus, its top zip closure and anti-wrinkle material makes it reliable for multipurpose usage.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 5.51 x 6.3 x 12.99 inches
- Handle Drop Length: 24 inches
- Pockets: 15
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Wear-resistant
- Anti-wrinkle material
- Multipurpose
- Convenient charging
- Top zip closure
- Too bulky
"I'm very pleased with this bag. It is vast and fits my laptop, iPad, dual phones, notebooks, and more. I admire its compatibility with roller bags, making it ideal for travel. It's a spacious bag, perfect for my teaching essentials as well."
Stylecraze TriviaThe verb ‘tote’ means carrying something heavy by the arm or back, hence the tote bag.
2. Best Versatile:BOSTANTEN Briefcase
The stylish, genuine leather laptop briefcase from BOSTANTEN has premium metal hardware, a soft fabric lining, and a high level of durability. The padded laptop compartment is roomy and can accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop. It also has a secured space at the back for keeping valuable objects. The feedback from Amazon reviewers echoes satisfaction with the thoughtfully crafted design. The adjustable leather straps provide various carrying options for the bag to be handheld, used on the shoulder, or as a crossbody. The bag can be used for daily use as well as for work, school, and interviews and is both functional and in agreement with current fashion trends.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 16.92 x 5.9 x 11.42 inches
- Handle strap: 12 inches
- Laptop compartment: 1
- Main Pocket: 1
- Slip pockets: 2
- Pen loops: 2
- Outsde Zipper pocket: 1
- Zipper closure
- Durable leather
- Adjustable leather straps
- Lightweight
None
"I appreciate this bag's roominess. It easily fits my laptop, notepads, and other essentials. While more inner pockets could add functionality, it is holding up well under heavy usage. The design regularly draws compliments for its professional and stylish look while providing practical features like a sturdy handle, strap, and helpful exterior pocket."
3. Best Canvas:Kate Spade Harper Leather Tote Bag
The classic Kate Spade Harper Leather Tote Bag can be an excellent addition to your exclusive designer collection. It comes with interior compartments, allowing you to keep your stuff organized and easily accessible. It is made of refined grain leather that looks extremely classy. This tote comes with two comfortable straps that are long and do not press hard against your skin – so no more strap marks on your shoulder! Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or going to the office – these sophisticated totes have got you covered.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 14.6 x 5.5 inches
- Handle Drop Length: 11 inches
- Pockets: 4
- Durable
- Spade jacquard lining
- Comfortable double straps
- Easy to clean
None
"I love this Kate Spade bag. I use it all the time and it has held up even after consistent use. The floral pattern is lovely and it pairs well with my winter wardrobe. It's the perfect balance of roomy and compact."
Remember4. Best For Daily Use:Michael Kors Charlotte Large Top Zip Tote
The Michael Kors Charlotte Large Top Zip Tote bag is ideal for all your essentials. It is detailed with gold-tone hardware and Saffiano leather and has two exterior side pockets that are easy to access. The interior compartment is compatible with a 15-inch. The bag is sturdy and versatile enough for day-to-day activities. Keep it in a dry, cool, and ventilated space, and wipe it with a dry cloth.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15 X 10 X 4.75 inches
- Handle strap: 10 inches
- Main Pocket: 1
- Slip pockets: 2
- Back zipper pocket: 1
- 100% leather
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- 100% polyester Zip
None
"My new purse beautiful, elegant, and practical. I like its perfectly functioning zipper and easy-to-clean leather. It is light, comfortable, and durable. No second thoughts, I would absolutely recommend this stable purse to everyone."
5. Best Quality:BROMEN Briefcase
The classic BROMEN 15.6” Fashion Laptop Tote Bag is a great choice for anyone who carries a laptop while studying or working. This excellent tote is designed in a classic briefcase style that is simple and stylish and can fit all you need for daily use. It comes with two slip pockets, allowing quick access to essentials, making it an excellent alternative to plastic bags. There is an organized compartment for your 15.6″ laptop or tablet to help you keep things in order. The velcro strap closure protects your laptop. The best feature of this tote bag is the two comfortable, adjustable long shoulder straps that work as a handbag, shoulder bag, or crossbody bag.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 14.57 x 4.72 x 12.4 inches
- Handle strap: 12.2 inches
- Main Pocket: 1
- Inner Computer pocket: 1
- External Pockets: 4
- Slip pockets: 2
- Back zipper pocket: 1
- Pen loops: 2
- Large capacity
- Zipper closure
- High-quality
- Waterproof leather body
- Magnetic closure
- Durable
None
"I have been using this classy bag daily since last year. It comfortably accommodates my laptop along with my other everyday essentials. The material has held up well with slight signs of wear. I love the subtle branding, sturdy zipper, and overall professional look. It is perfect for my needs, though it has developed a slight lean. A great purchase, I might even get another one for myself!"
6. Best Vintage Hobo Tote Bag:CLUCI Women Designer Genuine Leather Tote Bags
This vintage leather tote hobo bag from CLUCI is an iconic carryall that never goes out of fashion. It has a polyester lining that makes it skin-friendly and durable. The golden hardware and decorative double-ring circles along with the detachable and adjustable shoulder straps make it perfect for your day or night outings. It even comes with a top handle that fits perfectly in the crux of your arms, giving you a stunning look.
The inner and outer compartments let you organize your essentials and offer quick access to them. It has a snap closure, two open slot pockets, two inner zipper pockets, one back zipper pocket, one key holder, and magnetic snap closure. These are enough to hold your laptop, umbrella, A4 books, keys, cards, fashion accessories, and wallet. Moreover, its five metal bottom rivets protect it from abrasion and retain its vintage looks.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.35 x 12.40 x 5.90 inches
- Handle Drop Length: 8.26 inches
- Interior Pockets: 6
- Exterior Pockets: 3
- High-quality material
- Durable
- Adjustable strap
- Fine stitching
- Magnetic snap closure
None
"This leather purse offers ample room, making finding objects inside a breeze. Its heavy, chunky hardware may not be for everyone but has proven sturdy. Its snap closure is reliable although a zipper would have been better. It meets my needs and even gathers compliments."
7. Best Retro Tote Bag:LOVEVOOK Hobo Bag Set
This chic shoulder tote bag from LOVEVOOK highlights modern craftsmanship that is fashionable and boosts your inner diva. This bag is a charming piece of style that is exquisitely crafted out of high-quality synthetic leather. It also comes with a medium crossbody bag and a wallet clutch. It has an incredibly roomy internal structure as it comes with one main compartment, one zipper pocket, and two slot pockets that provide enough space to stash in all your essential stuff.
It has smooth zipper closure and a comfortable shoulder strap, ensuring a tested and reliable closure mechanism. This durable tote features a sturdy design, elegant lines, and a well-stitched body, and several reviews online also attest to the same. It is extremely lightweight and features anti-shock and wear-resistant quality. Moreover, it is scratch-proof, which makes it perfect for daily use. Besides its convenient features, this designer tote is perfect for all occasions.
Specifications
- Tote Bag Size: 11.8 x 10.4 x 4.7 inches
- Crossbody Bag Size: 10.6 x8.3 x 4.1 inches
- Wallet Clutch Size: 7.1 x 5.5 x 2.4 inches
- Tote Bag Handle Drop Length: 9.8 inches
- Pockets: 4
- High-quality material
- Wear-resistant
- Scratch-resistant
- Durable
- Anti-shock
- Large capacity
- Sturdy design
- Lightweight
None
"This bag allows me to carry my laptop and notebook without sacrificing style. It is delivers utility and longevity, which is important for office-goers like me. I'd definitely recommend it for its sturdiness."
8. Best Shoulder Purse Tote:PIJUSHI Designer Women Leather Tote Shoulder Bag
This designer leather tote bag from PIJUSHI features timeless style and exquisite craftsmanship. The tote materials such as wax oil leather and top-grain cow leather, make it a complete game-changer for any occasion. To add to its elegance, the beautiful embossed crocodile design imparts a dual tone and 3D effect. It comes with strong leather handles and dragon flap design that ensures durability and style.
The additional golden bottom rivets protect it from abrasion and scratches. This bag comes with a flap and zip closure and has one back zipper pocket along with two slip-in and one small zipper pockets on each side of the bag. This medium-size hobo tote bag is safe and convenient as it provides enough space to carry your iPad, mobile, wallet, and umbrella. Moreover, its special shape-fixed design protects the bag from getting out of shape and gives it a classy look.
Specifications
- Dimensiones: 12.5 x 5.5 x 8.5 inches
- Handle Drop Length: 8 inches
- Pockets: 5
- High-quality leather
- Dragon flap design
- Durable
- Golden bottom rivets
None
"I like the middle zipper and unique overlap styling of the bag. The overall quality is great but the drooping divider inside could be improved. Pijushi bags continue to exceed my expectations but I like this one the most due to the design having plenty pockets for convenience. It is undeniably a great purchase for me."
9. Best Travel Bag:Michael Kors Jet Crossgrain Leather Tote Bag
The sophisticated Michael Kors Jet Crossgrain Leather Tote Bag is a perfect travel companion for jet-setters. It is made from cross-grain leather that oozes chic vibes. The bag has two exterior pockets and plenty of storage space to contain all your essentials without hassle. The zip design of the bag keeps your stuff in place, while the multiple compartments keep things organized and give you maximum comfort. The bag is made of 100% leather with polyester lining. The tote bag’s flashy gold-tone hardware and signature details match perfectly with any outfit.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 4.25 inches
- Handle drop: 8 inches
- Pockets: 2 exterior and 5 interior
- Multi-tasking
- Zip fastening
- 100% leather
- Spacious
- Durable
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Gold-tone hardware
- Top heavy
"My light pink handbag not only holds my day-to-day necessities but also adds charm to my outfits. The zipped inner pocket, divider, and extra side pockets fit well inside the roomy interior. I use it for light travels but it is also great for long tours."
Large, organized, and multifunctional tote bags can be the perfect accessory for almost any use. But from simple totes to designer bags, the variety available may leave you confused. Take a breath and go through our list of points to consider while choosing the best designer tote bags for your needs.
How To Choose The Best Designer Tote Bags For Your Needs
Multifunctional
A tote bag is usually large in size and comes with multiple pockets and compartments. These features make totes extremely multifunctional. Some have laptop compartments, and space for personal stationary, power bank, or essential items and can be used for office or travel purposes. If you are a student, choose bags that are good to carry books along with a lunchbox and a water bottle. You can also choose vibrant tote bags for shopping trips or lunches with friends. Pick a bag with features customized to your needs for maximum utility or aesthetics.
Fabric
Choose tote bags with outer shells made of leather, or high-grade nylon. You may also choose bags that are embellished with metal studs for beautification. The rings and buckles are usually made of stainless steel or rust-free metal. While leather looks fancy, a canvas bag is more durable. The inner lining is usually made of polyester or nylon which makes the bag stable, strong, and tear-resistant. In case of laptop compartments, look for pockets and straps that are padded and soft to hold the device while offering it added protection.
Pick a bag that is water-resistant and fade-proof. It should not tear easily and should be soft along with a sturdy, durable build.
Adjustable Straps
Look for detachable straps or an adjustable handle. This can be made of canvas, leather or can be a woven strap, as per your choice. The straps can be velcro attachable or stitched on.
Compartments
If you are a heavy user of a tote bag, pick one with multiple compartments. This helps to sort and store your belongings instead of sifting through the bag when you need something. Choose bags with zippered pockets and small open compartments for phones, charger, cosmetics, stationary along with a laptop section. Inner compartments, open slip slots, outer pockets and slots, removable fabric-lined inner pouches are various kinds of compartments and divisions available in tote bags. Also, choose bags with buttoned or zippered closure for added security.
Infographic: Care Tips For Your Designer Tote Bag
A designer bag is a long-term investment. Not taking good care of it may affect ots quality, and your investment may not be fruitful. Check out the infographic below for a few care tips that will help you keep your designer tote bag as good as new. Scroll down.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Whether you are heading to school or work or are headed to the beach or shopping, a tote bag is ideal for carrying all your essentials. Pick the BOSTANTEN Briefcase for its versatile carrying options and roomy design with permium metal hardware., while the Kate Spade Harper Leather Tote Bag is a chic bag that comes with multiple interior pockets for organized storage. For those who want a luxurious yet sturdy bag with exterior side pockets, the Michael Kors Charlotte Large Top Zip Tote is the one for you. These best designer tote bags are extremely versatile and effortlessly stylish. Some totes are ideal for carrying a laptop, while some come with a USB charging port, and some tote bags come with different compartments for organized storage. However, it would be of great help to invest in the tote bags that come with adjustable straps as they are convenient to use.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Baishali Bhattacharya, is a certified image consultant and fashion expert who uses her knowledge and expertise to understand products that add style and elegance to one’s look. She carefully went through user reviews online and selected the best designer tote bags for daily use. These designer bags are fashionable, chic, and spacy, making them ideal for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth buying a designer bag?
Yes. A good-quality designer bag is long-lasting, versatile, stylish, and suitable for carrying your essentials to school, work, the beach, or shopping. Plus, it makes for a great addition to your fashion statement.
How big should a designer tote bag be?
There are three types of tote bags – small, medium, and large. Small designer tote bags are 12 inches wide, 13 inches high, and 4 inches deep. A medium tote bag is about 16 inches wide, 15 inches high, and 5 inches deep. This bag size feels like a handbag, and you can dress up or down for any occasion accordingly.
How long do designer tote bags last?
A good-quality designer tote bag can last for at least a year if you use it daily for carrying heavier items. A
tote bag lasts longer if used sparingly for lightweight essentials and occasions.
Can you use a tote bag as a handbag?
Yes. A tote bag can serve the purpose of a handbag or laptop bag.
Are designer tote bags anti-theft?
Yes. Designer tote bags have narrow openings close to your arm, so it is difficult for pickpockets to snatch or slip their hands in your bag and steal something.
Are designer tote bags actually environment-friendly?
Yes. Reusable designer tote bags made of cotton are environment-friendly.
How do you maintain a designer tote bag?
Stuff your bag with acid-free tissue paper, scarves, or soft fabric to maintain its shape. Unclip or roll up long straps and store them inside the bag. Hang your designer tote bag over a hook or a wooden hanger or store it upright.
Read full bio of Eleonora Fiano
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Srijita De
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