Big Bags Are Back—These 10 Totes Prove You Don't Have to Sacrifice Style for Space
There's a reason tote bags never go out of style—they're the one item that can do it all. Whether you're heading to the office with a laptop in tow, catching a flight, or simply running around town, a great tote is the ultimate companion. If you haven't taken a look at the runways yet this season, you need to know that they're bigger, chicer, and more functional than ever. From structured silhouettes to effortless suede styles that feel lived-in in the best way, I've been eyeing the return of the big bag trend with open arms—and an open shoulder.
To create the ultimate shopping list, I tapped some of the most stylish people I know (myself included) to share their ride-or-die tote bags. From under-$100 options to investment pieces worth every penny, these are the bags that truly do the most. Scroll on to shop the best totes that will carry you—and everything you need—through 2025 and beyond.
The 5 Best Tote Bags, Period:1. Best for Travel Enthusiasts: Dragon Diffusion Nantucket Woven Bag($509)
2. Best for Suede Lovers: Liffner Sprout Suede Tote Bag ($675)
3. Best for Practical Use: Cafe Kitsune Opera Tote Bag($75)
4. Best for Minimalists: Toteme Day Tote ($1690)
5. Best for Carrying Literally Everything: COS Alcove Tote ($320)
Liffner Mega Sprout Tote
"My go-to tote is forever my Liffner suede tote. It comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors, depending on what you need it for. It's heavy-duty, carries everything you need (and more), while elevating your look!" — Mimi Nguyen
"This Liffner tote has quickly become my favorite. It's ideal for travel or my commuter days spent running around NYC. I love the simple design, and the suede makes it feel ultra-luxe." — Chrissy Rutherford
Shop the tote:Materials: Suede
Size: Extra large
Pros: Carries it all
Cons: It could get damaged easily since it's suede
Ferragamo Incognito Cabas Bag"This season, I'm all about big tote bags! The bigger, the better! Especially suede ones! They are so easy to style, and finally, I can fit everything into my bag!" — Renia Jazdzy
Shop the tote:Materials: Calfskin suede
Size: Medium
Pros: The gold hardware makes it look super elevated
Cons: Doesn't fit a laptop
Demellier New York Tote
"I love this oversize tote bag from Demellier because it combines a modern silhouette with timeless elegance, making it the perfect office to weekend companion. Its sleek silhouette and practical size embody everything I look for in a tote bag. Plus, the attention to sustainable craftsmanship at Demellier always wows me." — Sierra Mayhew
Shop the tote:Toteme Suede Day Tote
"I completely love this Toteme bag. It's so chic, practical, and can fit everything from a laptop to a backup outfit (not even kidding). It's so effortless, and I absolutely love the suede." — Christie Tyler
Shop the tote:Materials: Suede and 100% cow leather
Size: Large
Pros: A timeless design
Cons: There's a lack of internal compartments that could make it easy to lose items within the bag
COS Alcove Tote Bag"Nothing beats a chic and practical tote. My current favorite is the Alcove Tote from COS in brown leather. It's the perfect mix of structure and softness, making it effortless for everyday wear while still looking polished. The shape feels timeless yet modern, and it fits all my essentials without feeling bulky." —Lena Farl
Shop the tote:Materials: 100% leather
Size: Extra large
Pros: There's a zipper pouch inside for valuables
Cons: The bag's unstructured shape may not hold its form when empty
Bottega Veneta Hop Bag"My favorite tote bag is the large Bottega Veneta Hop bag. A tote bag is forever, and this one will age beautifully with wear due to the intrecciato leather and its craftsmanship. I love that it has a visible geometric shape to it, adding a little drama. Just throwing it on your shoulder with all your essentials inside elevates even a simple outfit to run errands!" — Grece Ghanem
Materials: Brown calf leather
Size: Extra-extra large
Pros: A bag that could fit an outfit change, a laptop, and more
Cons: Some might call it too big
Shop the tote:The Row N.S. Park Tote"This is the bag I've been looking at lately. I noticed that I don't really have any white bags, and The Row is the perfect brand for a minimalistic bag such as a tote bag. So a white tote bag from them would be the dream bag for me lately." — Tamara Mory
Shop the tote:Materials: 100% leather
Size: Large
Pros: Entry-level price point for it being from The Row
Cons: White can get stained easily
Café Kitsune Opera Tote"Right now, I have one from Café Kitsuné that I love because the fabric is thick, so I can use it for my laptop and everything when I'm on the go (even a quick night out)." — Aïda Badji
Shop the tote:Materials: 100% cotton
Size: Large
Pros: Easy fabric to clean
Cons: Pricey, considering the fabric
Polene Cyme Mini Tote
"Otherwise, for my fancy tote bag, I have the Cyme from Polène in black and camel. I use the Cyme every time I'm traveling, although it becomes heavy with my laptop, iPad, and camera. This is my favorite elegant bag." —Aïda Badji
Shop the tote:Materials: Italian leather
Size: Medium
Pros: Can be worn as a handbag, elbow bag, or shoulder bag
Cons: Might not be able to fit a laptop
Dragon Diffusions Nantucket Bag"A forever tote bag for me! I can carry it all season, and it goes with me everywhere. The quality, craftsmanship is impeccable and the price point is so good." — Shalini Acharya
Shop the tote:Materials: Buffalo calf leather
Size: Large
Pros: Currently an It bag in New York City
Cons: No lining
FAQsWhat is the difference between a canvas bag and a tote bag?
A canvas bag refers specifically to a bag made from canvas fabric—think the tote your favorite brand sent along with your recent purchase. I tend to use these for casual grocery runs or a quick coffee with friends in the park, while a tote bag, on the other hand, refers to a style of bag. While many tote bags are made from canvas, they can also be crafted from other materials like leather, nylon, or cotton. So, a canvas bag could be a tote, but not all totes are made from canvas. My choice for a workday, going out with friends, or long-haul flights will always be a classic leather tote.
What fabric is best for tote bags?
The best fabric for tote bags depends on what you intend to use it for. Canvas has been a popular choice in recent years due to its durability, lightweight nature, and ease of cleaning, making it great for everyday or casual use. Leather is the vibe for those of us seeking a more luxurious and sophisticated look. Suede is trending right now and provides a refined look, but it requires more care, making it suitable for special occasions. My suede bag comes with me to the office but never on a flight when I know it will get tossed around. Pick your fighter, but I like to have all three of these fabrics on hand, depending on where my day will take me.
What makes a good tote bag for everyday use?
A good tote bag for everyday use should be spacious, durable, and versatile. I look for styles that offer enough room for the daily essentials (laptop size is a must for me) with sturdy handles and a strong material that can withstand wear and tear. Bonus points if it's not so fancy that I would be heartbroken if something happens to it because life happens.
How do I care for my tote bag to ensure it lasts?
To keep your tote bag in top condition, clean it regularly by wiping it down with a soft, damp cloth. For leather totes, you can use a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and supple. For canvas totes, throw them in the wash now and then. I always store my accessories in a dust bag for maximum protection. For suede or fabric totes, be sure to spot-clean or professionally clean them as needed.
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