What Makes Tote Bags an Excellent Fashion Accessory

Unlike many fashion accessories, tote bags are as practical as they are stylish. A sturdy tote bag is so useful that people collect those branded by their favorite stores. This year, the $2.99 Trader Joe’s tote bag became a viral sensation, with the bags resold online for hundreds of dollars. What’s going on? Why is the tote bag so popular? For that matter, what is a tote bag? And what is a tote bag used for? 

From promotional sports team giveaways and grocery store branding to luxury design houses like Hermès and Chanel, it seems everyone is embracing the tote bag trend. Let’s explore why the tote bag is a must-have and how to style this excellent fashion accessory.

What Is a Tote Bag?

For all its popularity, let’s first consider — what is a tote bag? A tote bag is a medium to large bag, open at the top, with two handles, one on each wide side. The shape is generally a square or rectangle.

Simple totes are just two pieces of fabric sewn together on three sides, while sturdier designs have four seamed sides and a reinforced bottom panel, providing greater storage space and superior durability for carrying heavier items. The simple style and functional storage make tote bags highly versatile. Tote bags come in many materials, including plastic, nylon, cotton, canvas, woven jute, and leather.

So, what is a tote bag used for? They are ideal for gathering and transporting daily essentials. Tote bags are commonly used as beach bags, diaper bags, reusable shopping bags, travel bags, book bags, gym bags, picnic bags, and more. Versions like the Trader Joe’s tote bag are often used in place of disposable plastic bags for groceries. A stylish tote bag is an elegant yet practical choice, whether you’re carrying your laptop for work or packing for a weekend getaway.

Types of Tote Bags

As mentioned above, there are many types of tote bags, ranging from reusable plastic grocery store bags right on up to designer tote bags.

Cotton Tote Bags

Cotton tote bags are a popular promotional item for businesses big and small because they can be printed with the company logo and name. They are an attractive alternative to single-use plastic bags. However, the environmental impact of cotton totes is complex. While they help reduce plastic waste, their production consumes vast amounts of water, pesticides, and energy. Additionally, without a blend of other fibers, cotton tote bags soon wear out with repeated use. 

Everyday Tote Bags

An everyday tote bag is a fashion staple for many who need a spacious, versatile bag. Made from nylon, canvas, jute, raffia, straw, denim, or faux leather, the tote’s timeless appeal and functionality are a winning combination. Adaptability, durability, and a wide range of colors and styles make these totes popular for all kinds of errands and outings.

Designer Tote Bags

While everyday totes are highly practical, designer tote bags are an elevated option that blends functionality with luxury. Crafted from premium materials, these bags feature the exceptional craftsmanship and exquisite detailing of luxury handbags.

Why Are Tote Bags So Popular?

Tote bags have been around for over 100 years and are enjoying a recent surge in popularity. The functionality and practicality of the bags are key to their success, as are the versatility of style and the cultural relevance of the bags today. Whether you’re headed to the playground with your kids, to the beach, to the office, or for a romantic getaway to Saint Tropez, a stylish tote bag makes the trip more convenient and fashionable.

Designer Tote Bags: The Height of Fashion and Functionality

Designer tote bags offer a perfect blend of style and practicality, elevating the hard-working tote to a sophisticated fashion statement. For example:

• The Hermès Garden Party Tote is both elegant and versatile. Crafted from premium leather or a toile canvas reinforced with a leather bottom and straps, the bag is roomy, and the rolled handles can be carried by hand or slid up over your shoulder. 

• Chanel Deauville Shopping Totes feature canvas or denim printed with oversized text and the Chanel logo. The rolled leather handles, chain-and-leather intertwined straps, oversized Chanel logo, and text give the bag a Parisian flair.

• The chic Goyard St. Louis Tote, with its iconic Goyardine print, offers an impressively lightweight yet durable option that makes a statement wherever it goes.

These designer totes provide more than just handy storage; they represent status, sophistication, and classic charm.

How to Style a Tote Bag

Whether you choose a casual everyday bag or a designer piece, you can get more out of the tote than practical storage. Follow our tips for how to style a tote bag:

Consider the Material:

• Canvas and Cotton: Ideal for casual, laid-back outfits
• Leather or Faux Leather: Offers a more refined look

Match the Style with the Occasion:

• Minimalist Designs: In leather, a minimalist tote can work well for the office
• Vibrant Patterns and Graphics: Play off the colors and prints in your casual look

An all-leather minimalist style, like the Hermès Garden Party tote, can be dressed up with silk Twillies on the handles and paired with a chic sheath dress or sharp suit for the office. Or, skip the scarves and opt for a casual look with jeans, a striped tee or button-down, and a cotton blazer with the tote.

The Chanel Deauville canvas or denim tote with leather straps and handles has a more playful vibe. Top white jeans with a striped Breton top, and step into ballet flats. Add a Chanel Deauville for a bold pop of color.

The Goyard St. Louis adds color and texture to your look. Style a flowing maxi dress or Pallazzo pants with sandals and a St. Louis tote for a breezy, effortless vibe.

A well-chosen tote bag adds both style and practicality to any wardrobe.