Ask any fashion insider about their favorite hard-working accessory, and they’ll likely wax poetic about their best designer tote bag. “A versatile designer tote can serve as a laptop bag for the office, a travel purse for your carry-on essentials, and even a gym bag if you want to elevate your athleisure look,” says Will Cooper, SVP of Women’s Designer RTW, Shoes, and Handbags at Saks. Simply put, a great designer tote is pretty much guaranteed to clock overtime.
While you could also opt for a range of bag style silhouettes to get the job done, personal shopper Gab Waller, who frequently sources coveted bags for her VIP clients, notes totes are one of the best investments in the handbag category, “and if you’re reaching for a multi-use tote bag regularly, you might as well buy a high-quality bag that's built to last," notes. Citing designer totes often cut from quality fabrics—like sturdy leathers and unfussy coated canvas— will stand the test of time.
If anyone can attest to the real-life longevity of cost-per-wear and investment bags, luxury content creator Cassie Thorpe can. She's been collecting high-end accessories since age 16. “You can carry a well-made tote bag by your side forever. My first designer tote was the Louis Vuitton Neverfull, which I still have over a decade later,” she says. “Even after all this time, this workhorse of a bag is in perfect condition, and it’s seen me through many eras in my life.
With that in mind, we've curated an edit of the best designer totes with input from Thorpe, Waller, and Cooper, with the best options for first-time buyers, seasoned collectors, and everyone in between. Keep scrolling, and you'll also discover a quick hit guide for what to look for when purchasing a designer tote, alongside a range of expert-approved styling tips so you can wear your bag with every outfit.
The Designer Tote Bag We're Loving
- Best Leather Designer Tote Bag: Saint Laurent Shopping Tote Bag
- Best Canvas Designer Tote Bag: Savette Tondo Large Leather-Trimmed Canvas Tote
- Best Vintage-Inspired Designer Tote Bag: Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM
- Best Affordable Designer Tote Bag: Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Leather Tote
- Best Statement Designer Tote Bag: Alaïa Mina North-South Tote Bag in Vienne Straight Perforated Leather
“Saint Laurent’s Shopping tote is made from a luxe calfskin fabric that will stand the test of time,” says Cooper. It's offered in various neutral colorways, from a rich black shade to a soft beige hue, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a versatile carryall. “Plus, this bag has a removable pouch for all your small belongings, so you won’t have to worry about losing your keys or cosmetics at the bottom of this deep tote,” adds Cooper.
Colors: Black, brown, cream, beige, navy blue, olive green, storm gray
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 14.5" W x 11" H x 5" D (fits up to 13" laptop)
Heritage designers craft some of the best designer tote bags on the market, but plenty of new-to-the-scene brands deserve just as much praise and are keeping craftsmanship alive. “Lately, I’ve been loving this New York City-based label called Savette,” says Waller. Their Tondo canvas tote has such a sophisticated design and quality construction,” she adds.
Colors: Beige, black & white
Material: Canvas, leather
Dimensions: 16.9" W x 11.8" H x 7.9" D (fits up to 15" laptop)
Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull tote has been a part of Thorpe's designer bag collection for years. She says, "This bag is nearly indestructible, thanks to its coated canvas exterior." Initially introduced as a refined beach bag option in 2007, the Neverfull Tote has become a multipurpose essential. "I’ve used it as a carry-on while traveling, as a work bag for my days in the office, and even as an overnight bag for weekend getaways," says Thorpe. The bottom line? This tote will be with you for the long haul.
Colors: Brown
Material: Canvas, leather
Dimensions: 12.6″ W x 11″ H x 12.2″ L (fits up to 12" laptop)
If you're searching for a well-crafted designer tote bag at an affordable price, consider Tory Burch. Their pebbled leather tote features three organized compartments, an interior zip divider, and protective metal feet, all for under $300.
Colors: Beige, brown, black
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 14" W x 11.5" H x 4" D (fits up to 13" laptop)
"I believe that Alaïa is one of the more underrated labels for designer tote bags," says Thorpe. She tells Marie Claire that Alaïa’s Mina tote is a must-have because of its intricately lacy laser-cut design, which resembles the brand’s traditional Vienne motif. While Alaïa’s Mina tote bag certainly makes a statement, it's also practical, featuring sturdy top handles and a spacious compartment.
Colors: Burgundy
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 17.25" W x 12.5" H x 6.25" H (fits up to 17" laptop)
Other Designer Tote Bags We'd Invest In
The Fendi Origami bag is loved for many reasons, but Thorpe is particularly drawn to its unique shape. She explains that the solid magnetic closures give the bag an origami-like transformation, which inspired its name. Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi for the label’s Spring 2024 show, the bag is influenced by the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. You can style this tote in two distinct ways: carefully folding it into a bucket or shopper bag.
Color: Brown
Material: Leather, polyester
Dimensions: 12.2″ W x 11.8″ H x 6.7″ D (fits up to 12" laptop)
“I really like the fact that Burberry’s Festival tote has adjustable leather straps, so you can modify the handles depending on how you’d like to carry the bag,” says Thorpe. The style expert shares that another standout is its iconic exterior, plastered in Burberry’s heritage check pattern and adorned with super subtle metal hardware.
Colors: Black & beige, white & navy
Material: Cotton blend
Dimensions: 20.75" W x 15.25" H x 9" D (fits up to 17" laptop)
Mansur Gavriel's Everyday tote is designed to be used every day in a versatile black shade, with a simple, softly structured shape and a spacious interior. Actress Katie Holmes is known for carrying this reliable bag on leisurely walks and errand runs.
Color: Black
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 18.9" W x 11" H x 5.5" D (fits up to 17" laptop)
Longchamp’s Le Pliage Tote is designed to be used in any weather, made with completely water-resistant nylon fabric, so it's perfect for carrying in heavy rain or taking to the beach. Wherever you choose to bring this tote, you can be confident that your belongings will stay dry.
Colors: Steel gray, brown, green, orange, cream, burgundy
Material: Nylon, leather
Dimensions: 12" W x 12" H x 7" D. (fits up to 12" laptop)
Established in 2016, the French fashion house Polène has gained recognition for its sculptural leather bags. The brand's products are all meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in Ubrique, Spain, and will appeal to both minimalists and people who appreciate great design. One of Polène's recent styles, the Cyme tote, has quickly gained popularity for its sturdy construction, basket-style shape, and double straps that allow for a ton of styling options.
Color: Brown
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 15.7" W x 14.9" H x 6.7 "D (fits up to 15" laptop)
If you're in the market for a stylish and versatile carryall, Cooper suggests checking out Bottega Veneta's Arco bag. This new bag features the brand's signature woven intrecciato technique, adding an artistic touch to the classic black tote design. Cooper notes that this tote can easily be dressed up with a going-out outfit or casual for weekends and the workplace.
Colors: Black, black & silver, white, pink, beige
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 14.5" W x 9.75" H x 6" D (fits up to 13" laptop)
When Maria Grazia Chiuri revealed the Dior Book Tote as part of the label's Spring 2018 collection, it quickly became a cult classic. Covered in animated flora and fauna prints, this bag will bring any look to life. If your current accessories collection mainly consists of solid shades, consider adding this whimsical bag to your assortment.
Colors: Ecru & blue, pink, ecru & gray, ecru & pink, aquamarine
Material: Canvas
Dimensions: 15.7" W x 13.4" H x 5.1" D (fits up to 13" laptop)
The Prada Re-Nylon tote is one of Cooper's picks for the brand's iconic metal triangle logo and the recycled nylon fabric. While Prada originally used virgin nylon in the 1990s, it now uses regenerated nylon spun from recycled materials, adding this bag to the list of great sustainable designer tote options.
Colors: Black, blue, brown
Material: Recycled nylon
Dimensions: 16.9'' W x 12.2'' H x 5.9'' L (fits up to 15" laptop)
Plenty of designer labels have perfected the East-West bag trend, with one prime example being The Row’s EW Margaux tote. Recognizable for its long horizontal shape, this streamlined bag is highly coveted among the fashion crowd, according to Waller. “The Margaux bag is one of my most requested bags at the moment,” she says. Waller adds that The Row’s Idaho bag is also in high demand because “it’s beyond easy to use and style.”
Colors: Brown
Material: Leather, cotton twill
Dimensions: 26" W x 11.8" H x 9.1" D (fits up to 11" laptop)
Ditch the hassle of cumbersome totes with Loewe’s dynamic Puzzle bag. Its architectural design allows it to fold completely flat, making it perfect for travel. Fashion designer Jonathan Anderson invented this bag several years ago, and its space-saving feature has become inherently linked to why the fashion set loves this bag so much.
Colors: Green, black, navy, yellow, beige, burgundy
Material: Leather, suede (lining)
Dimensions: 10" W x 12" H x 5.7 "D (although the small size won't fit a laptop, the large version can likely fit a "13 inch laptop)
Take a trip down memory lane with Balenciaga’s Le City tote. This early 2000s gem, first released in 2001, is back in style. According to Cooper, "The Le City bag is a functional tote that exudes a cool 'downtown city girl' vibe with its tumbled shiny lambskin leather and whip stitching."
Colors: Black. beige
Material: Leather, cotton canvas (lining)
Dimensions: 15'' W x 11.5" H x 5.5'' D (fits up to 13" laptop)
During the Spring 2024 fashion week circuit, slouchy bags emerged as a bag trend across the runways of countless designers, including Chloé, Isabel Marant, and Bottega Veneta. Over a year later, this trend is still going strong, so it's no surprise that Toteme’s pliable tote is one of the "It" bags of the moment.
Color: Black
Material: Leather
Dimensions: 20.5" W x 14" H x 10.5" D (fits up to 17" laptop)
Features to Consider When Buying a Designer Tote Bag
- Fabric
Waller's tip: If you plan to use your designer tote bag daily, choose durable materials like leather and tightly woven canvases instead of suede for easy maintenance.
- Color
"I recommend choosing a neutral color that can effortlessly complement your wardrobe, particularly if you’re making your first designer tote bag purchase," says Cooper. The fashion expert says that a neutral tote can be styled daily, driving down the cost per wear and making you feel satisfied with your big investment.
- Function
"It’s definitely important to consider your lifestyle and specific needs when buying a designer tote bag," notes Cooper. Thorpe always makes sure that the bag's functionality works for her before buying it. Ask yourself, how many compartments does this bag have? What type of closure is it equipped with? And is it large enough to fit your bulkier items?
Styling Your Designer Tote Bag for Everyday Outfits
Allow your designer tote bag to take center stage while wearing a more subdued, casual outfit.
You don't have to save your investment pieces for dressy occasions. If you're running errands or meeting up with friends for lunch in a button-down shirt, trousers, and loafers, grab your designer tote bag. It can store plenty of on-the-go items like your wallet, water bottle, or even a book to read while you're en route.
A day of travel calls for a roomy designer tote bag and a comfortable outfit to match.
Slip into a cozy airport outfit (like a white T-shirt, leggings, and a sweater) and "use your versatile designer tote that doubles as your go-to travel bag,” suggests Cooper. Minimalists can forgo a carry-on and opt for a roomy designer tote bag as their luggage instead.
For days in the office, trade your laptop bag for a fresh designer tote, and throw on a tailored suit set.
Heading into the office? Carry a laptop-friendly designer tote bag that screams Shiv Roy (in a good way) paired with a range of winter work outfits, like a great tailored suit set.
Meet the Experts
In his current role, Cooper oversees the holistic vision and strategy for Saks Fifth Avenue's shoes and accessories category. Cooper, who has more than eighteen years of experience in luxury retail, has a diverse background across categories including women’s RTW, men's RTW, and women’s shoes and handbags.
Gab Waller is a professional personal shopper, whose fashion sourcing service has fast positioned her on speed dial for celebrity clients and fashion fanatics around the world.
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