18 Best Designer Tote Bags, Recommended by Fashion Insiders
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The best designer tote bags are worthwhile investment pieces—but picking the right high-end handbag from the endless avalanche of choices can become a process. To save you time from combing through all the different styles, we spoke with fashion industry insiders to learn about the bags they own and recommend. Here’s everything you need to know about shopping for luxury tote bags, coupled with expertise and honest feedback from editors, influencers, and other in-the-know people.
The best designer tote bags, at a glance
- Best Overall: Gucci Ophidia GG Medium Tote, $1,700
- Best for Work: Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote, $398
- Best Leather: Saint Laurent Shopping Bag, $1,490
- Best for Travel: Loewe Large Flamenco Clutch, $3,150
- Best Under $200: Marc Jacobs The Canvas Medium Tote Bag, $195
- Best Under $500: Kate Spade Manhattan Woven Straw Small Tote, $398
- Best Under $1,000: Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote, $795
- Best Canvas: Chloé Medium Woody Tote Bag, $1,290
- Best Nylon: Longchamp Le Pliage Original Medium Tote, $140
What to know about buying a designer tote bag
Best Overall: Gucci Ophidia GG Medium Tote
Courtesy of brand1/21Gucci Ophidia GG Medium Tote
Bringing together Gucci’s most iconic house codes—the allover double-“G” Gucci logo and signature green and red webbed stripe—this medium-size tote feels retro and modern at once. (One could be forgiven for thinking it’s true vintage.) The sturdy canvas reinforces the structured shape of the tote, while leather trim and double shoulder straps provide polish. Once you have this bag, you’ll find yourself pairing it with everything from full suits to white T-shirts and relaxed jeans; it’s endlessly versatile.
Material: Canvas with leather trim / Colors: 3 options / Size: 15" x 11" x 5.5" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Best for Work: Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote
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Courtesy of brand2/21Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote
If you need an elegant work bag that fits your laptop, lunch, and extras, this pebbled leather tote is up for the task. A handy center zipper pocket for 13-inch laptops divides the bag into two compartments; there are also slip pockets for your phone, sunglasses, and other essentials for easy access. Longer shoulder straps help the bag fit comfortably over blazers and coats. And we appreciate the metal feet on the bottom, which help the tote stand upright and protect the leather.
Material: Leather / Colors: 7 options / Size: 14" x 11.5" x 4" / Laptop size: 13" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes and Tory Burch promo codes.
Best Leather: Saint Laurent Shopping Bag
Courtesy of brand3/21Saint Laurent Shopping Bag
In a market where it’s possible to spend upwards of six figures on a single bag, Saint Laurent’s unfussy tote stands out. “The Saint Laurent Shopping Bag is, for a luxury item, a good buy at $1,500,” says Amy Odell, founder of the fashion newsletter Back Row. “I like how structured and durable it is.” It’s ever-so-slightly slouchy, but with enough structure to hold tech, practical shoes, a book, and whatever else you need to make it through the day, whether you’re going shopping or heading off to work. Classic black makes for a leather bag that’ll complement everything in your wardrobe.
Material: Leather / Colors: 1 option / Size: 11" x 14" x 5" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes and Bergdorf Goodman promo codes.
Best for Travel: Loewe Large Flamenco Clutch
Courtesy of brand4/21Loewe Large Flamenco Clutch
“Clutch” is a bit of a misnomer here; the Loewe Flamenco is a tote through and through. (It’s also been spotted on It girls like Taylor Russell, FYI.) “I personally love my Loewe Flamenco. I hemmed and hawed over which bag to buy for many years and am very happy with my purchase,” Odell says. “I have traveled with it and I bring it around New York City often, and it’s been great.” We especially love it as a travel bag, since it’s got plenty of room for tech and closes securely at the top. The cinched top lends the bag a unique shape that instantly reads “luxury”—and isn’t that the whole point here?
Material: Leather / Colors: 6 options / Size: 15" x 11.4" x 5.5" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Net-a-Porter promo codes.
Best Under $200: Marc Jacobs Medium Tote Canvas Bag
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Courtesy of brand5/21Marc Jacobs The Canvas Medium Tote Bag
Featuring the cheeky branding Marc Jacobs is known for, this utilitarian canvas tote bag is playful and casual, offering personality in spades. The textured cotton material is intended to break in as you wear it, so this is definitely not a bag to be precious with. And that’s a plus, since this is a completely functional pick with a flat-zip top, wall pockets, and an adjustable shoulder strap that turns it into a crossbody bag. The roomy shape and flat bottom make it easy to hold your tablet (or a small laptop), a water bottle, a makeup pouch, and whatever else you may need.
Material: Cotton canvas / Colors: 6 options / Size: 13" x 10" x 7" / Laptop size: 13" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes and Neiman Marcus promo codes.
Best Under $500: Kate Spade Manhattan Woven Straw Small Tote
Courtesy of brand6/21Kate Spade Manhattan Woven Straw Small Tote
On the smaller end of the spectrum, this cheery woven tote is ideal when you don’t need a laptop—think nice brunches, date nights, and weekend getaways. Two slip pockets, a top-zip construction, and an optional shoulder strap keep things plenty functional. You might think that such bold colors might make it tough to style, but it’s no issue; think of this bag as a welcome pop of color that’ll instantly elevate otherwise boring ensembles.
Material: Straw, polyurethane, leather trim / Colors: 1 option / Size: 5.0" x 8.75" x 10.25" / Laptop size: N/A
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Kate Spade promo codes.
Best Under $1,000: Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Leather Tote
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Courtesy of brand7/21Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote
Made with soft tumbled Italian leather that lends a chic level of slouch, this simple tote is built to see you through the day. It’s spacious, with enough room for a 16-inch laptop, a change of shoes, and other must-haves. (Stash your cash, keys, phone, and ID in the detachable pouch.) Freelance editor Deanna Pai highly recommends the brand’s high-quality leather, and celeb fans include Katie Holmes, Margot Robbie, and Julianne Moore, so you know you’re in stylish company.
Material: Leather / Colors: 4 options / Size: 21.5" x 11.8" x 9" / Laptop size: 16" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes.
Best Canvas: Chloé Medium Woody Tote Bag
Courtesy of brand8/21Chloé Medium Woody Tote Bag
There’s something undeniably fun about a designer twist on a classic, and this one’s all about the oversized logo adorning the grosgrain handles. Constructed with durable linen canvas, this market tote has a nice structure and shape that’s reinforced by the contrasting leather trim. It’s just roomy enough to fit a 13-inch laptop and some other small essentials—and the French-girl aesthetic is perfect for warmer months (or pretending you’re in them).
Material: Linen canvas, leather trim / Colors: 2 options / Size: 14" x 11.5" x 4" / Laptop size: 13" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes.
Best Nylon: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
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Courtesy of brand9/21Longchamp Le Pliage Original Medium Tote
Looking for an affordable designer bag? Longchamp’s Le Pliage is an easy, iconic answer. It’s equally useful as a work, school, gym, or carry-on bag, thanks to a roomy interior, water-resistant finish, and lightweight foldable design. (It clocks in at a little over 10 ounces.) Store your phone and valuables in the inside slip pocket; the zip top is secured with a leather snap flap to keep your haul safe. For functionality alone, this shoulder bag should be at the top of your list.
Material: Nylon, leather trim / Colors: 7 options/ Size: 12.3" x 11.8" x 7.5" / Laptop size: 13" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes.
Best Suede: Métier Incognito Large Cabas Tote
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Courtesy of brand10/21Métier Incognito Large Cabas Tote
“I decided to leave the canvas tote behind and carry all my essentials in style,” says stylist Casey Trudeau. “Initially, I purchased this Métier suede tote with the intention of using it for big meetings, but it has become my go-to carryall for everyday use.” The quiet luxury vibes of this large tote justify the price tag; just imagine the compliments you’ll get from this investment piece over the next few decades.
Material: Suede / Colors: 1 option / Size: 15.7" x 9.4" x 13" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes.
Best Shopper: Prada Raffia Tote Bag
Courtesy of brand11/21Prada Crochet Tote Bag
Come summer, everyone has straw bags swinging from their arms—so snag yours now. This airy raffia tote from Prada is a luxe option that will take you from city to coast. Constructed with an open-weave crochet design and finished with the triangle logo, it’s soft and comfortable to wear. Opt for a pop of color to embrace a warm-weather mood, or go for tried-and-true black. (Tip: Since it’s unlined, organize and protect your essentials with pouches to maximize this pick’s practicality.)
Material: Raffia, leather trim / Colors: 6 options / Size: 14.1" x 14.9" x 1.1" / Laptop size: 13" and below
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Best Slouchy: Khaite The Medium Lotus Tote
Courtesy of brand12/21Khaite The Medium Lotus Tote
Buttery suede and an instantly recognizable silhouette have earned this Khaite bag cult-favorite status among the fashion crowd; we often see it on editors and influencers in the wild. It’s free from any splashy logos or hardware; the timeless design is the appeal here. The construction intentionally mimics the movement of a scarf, so it’s light and drapes just right. (It’s also available in raffia for $1,650.)
Material: Suede / Colors: 10 options / Size: 16" x 16" x 9.6" / Laptop size: N/A
Best Bucket: Cuyana Oversized Linea Bag
Courtesy of brand13/21Cuyana Oversized Linea Bag
“This bag is made from beautiful pebbled leather—just, like, so soft,” says Sam Reed, Glamour’s senior trending news and entertainment editor. “I do appreciate a fat strap; I didn’t realize how much [my other tote] had dug in until I switched. I also appreciate that there are several compartments here, including an inner sleeve for my laptop. I’ve also begun utilizing the key ring, which is incredibly convenient. It’s also just a really fashionable bag, and a great dupe for some of the more expensive bucket bags on the market.”
Material: Leather / Colors: 3 options / Size: 13.5" x 14.5" x 4.7" / Laptop size: 16" and below
Best Foldable: Loewe Puzzle Fold Tote
Courtesy of brand14/21Loewe Puzzle Fold Tote
If you’re going to invest in a shopper tote, why not one from Loewe? The Spanish brand is hot right now, and this recent edition to its sculptural Puzzle line actually folds down when not in use. “It’s gorgeous and just the right size for a commuting bag—it fits a laptop and your basic essentials without feeling cramped,” says Rachel Fletcher, a senior commerce editor at Architectural Digest. “I will say it’s pretty delicate considering the price tag, and blemishes show pretty easily on the leather because it isn’t pebbled or grainy—after putting it in my bike basket once, it got a bit scratched up. But I’m also not someone who is accustomed to carrying a designer bag, so take that with a grain of salt.”
Material: Leather / Colors: 5 options / Size: 10" x 12.4" x 5.7" / Laptop size: 13" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Saks Fifth Avenue promo codes and Neiman Marcus promo codes.
Best Graphic: Coach Relay Tote Bag
Courtesy of brand15/21Coach Relay Tote Bag
A leather tote bag with the spirit of a canvas pick, Coach’s graphic gem is a welcome change of pace. It’s plenty structured for work, but not too serious for pleasure—exactly the kind of hero bag your collection might be missing. Plus, metal feet at the bottom will keep the piece pristine, even when your commute or flight is anything but.
Material: Leather / Colors: 3 options / Size: 16.3" x 13.8" x 6" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Most Trendy: Reformation Medium Vittoria Tote Bag
Courtesy of brand16/21Reformation Medium Vittoria Tote Bag
Launched last year, Reformation’s entire line of bags—including this leather tote—is well worth the investment. But this one is something special: “Everything about it is perfect: the supple leather, the quirky design, the shoulder bow,” says Glamour shopping editor Jake Henry Smith. “I’ve bonded with style influencers about how versatile it is; there’s room for all the daily essentials (and even a small laptop if you’re okay with storing it on its side). The bow punches up casual outfits and elevates dressier ones.”
Material: Leather / Colors: 8 options / Size: 12.5" x 9.5" x 5" / Laptop size: N/A
Best for Summer: Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Raffia Tote
Courtesy of brand17/21Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Raffia Tote
Raffia bags practically scream “vacation,” and this gem from Saint Laurent doesn’t compromise on designer aesthetics—it’s both summery and chic all at once. (There’s also a tan option, should summer black be too bold for your taste.) Water bottles, one-pieces, and beach reads feel a little more special when they’re packed away in this top-handle bag.
Material: Raffia / Colors: 2 options / Size: 14" x 13.5" x 6" / Laptop size: 15" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes and Net-a-Porter promo codes.
Best for the Beach: Bode Laundry Tote
Courtesy of brand18/21Bode Laundry Tote
“I’ve been dreaming of this bag ever since I saw that vintage-inspired embroidery,” Glamour’s Smith says. “Bode is known for coastal designs that look—in the best way—like thrift-store finds, and this tote is a perfect entry-level piece. There’s plenty of room for a towel, a few cold drinks, and a portable speaker, making this a perfect beach bag if I’ve ever seen one.”
Material: Cotton / Colors: 1 option / Size: 26" x 15.5" x 4.5" / Laptop size: 16" and below
Save on the best designer tote bags with these Nordstrom promo codes.
19/21Why buy a designer tote bag?
“Crafted with precision and using high-quality materials, designer handbags exceed that of nondesigner alternatives,” says Danielle Gumina, content editor at Fashionphile, who recommends investing in one. Plus, if your bag is cared for properly, the premium materials and craftsmanship mean you’ll own it for years to come.
“Unlike other fast-fashion items that lose their worth quickly, designer handbags often maintain or even increase in value,” Gumina says, name-checking brands such Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Saint Laurent as the most popular on Fashionphile’s resale site. Whether you sell it down the road or pass it on to future generations, it automatically becomes a cherished heirloom.
20/21How should you shop for a designer tote?
As you’re considering your new bag purchase, keep your personal style and needs in mind. You want to find something you can always turn to and won’t get sick of after one season. Classic designs won’t go out of style, of course, but take an audit of your wardrobe first.
Most important, think of how, when, and where you’ll use your tote. Do you typically carry a lot of stuff or do you travel light? Is it something spacious that should double as a laptop bag? Or do you prefer a smaller everyday bag that you can use on the go? Ultimately, if it’s a style that can serve you from weekday to weekend, it’s worth thinking about splurging for a designer version. (Check out our designer wallet picks to pair with your tote.)
21/21Which designer bags are hot right now?
The Marc Jacobs canvas tote is incredibly popular right now for its accessible price point and everyday practicality. On the splurgier side of the spectrum, Khaite’s Lotus bag and Loewe’s Puzzle tote are having big moments. And for summer, materials like raffia and canvas make great investments; they feel beachy and vacation-ready.
