If you’re looking for a new bag that combines understated style with functional design, nothing beats the tote. Whether you’re heading to the office, running errands, or jetting off for a weekend getaway, a well-crafted tote offers the ideal balance of fashion and practicality.
With their roomy interiors, sturdy handles, and timeless appeal, the best designer tote bags have become essentials in every modern wardrobe.
Stylish, spacious, and versatile, totes make the perfect companion to any outfit and can be rolled out for just about any occasion—from business meetings to brunch dates.
Eager to elevate your accessory line-up with a designer-level item? We’ve picked out three of the most sought-after totes on the market for you to consider.
Best for Utility
Established in 2006, The Row is a brand synonymous with easygoing style, utilitarian design, and premium materials. One of the more recent additions to its portfolio, the Margaux Bag, is a standout item of their ever-expanding collection.
This classic tote is a must-have for anyone seeking a refined yet practical accessory that will stand the test of time. Expertly constructed in a combination of smooth suede, supple leather, and structured canvas, the Margaux offers a luxurious tactile experience and a durable finish.
It comes in a curated range of shades, including timeless black for the minimalist, elegant ivory for those with refined tastes, and deep marine blue for a bold yet sophisticated statement. Its structured silhouette, cinched side buckles, and softly curved top handles elevate it from simple tote to heirloom-worthy piece.
As one of the best designer tote bags available today, the Margaux strikes an ideal balance between sophistication and everyday function. While it is a serious investment, it’s often considered a more affordable alternative to ultra-luxury totes from heritage houses—without compromising on craftsmanship or cachet.
Best for Sustainability
If you’re more eco-conscious with your fashion choices, Stella McCartney’s Vegan-Leather Shoulder Bag is something to consider. The faux leather fabric holds its own against the real thing, while a curved silhouette makes it an elegant alternative to those bulkier bags you might have lurking in your repertoire.
The curved, sculptural silhouette adds a touch of elegance, offering a refined alternative to the more rigid or oversized totes that often dominate everyday wardrobes.
Signature branding details give it that unmistakable designer edge—from the engraved gold-tone padlock to the subtle debossed logo accents that catch the light in all the right ways.
Inside, the bag is impressively spacious, with enough room to comfortably carry your day-to-day must-haves like a tablet, wallet, or even a small water bottle.
A handy slip pocket keeps smaller items—like keys or lip balm—easily accessible. Whether you’re heading to the office, running errands, or going out for the evening, this tote earns its place among the best designer tote bags, making it a smart, stylish, and sustainable addition to any accessory collection.
Best for Storage
If space is always at a premium and you’re looking to boost your carrying capacity, the Chloé Spin Leather Tote Bag is definitely worth considering.
Fashioned in grained cowhide leather, this roomy tote is available in a range of alluring colourways. Alongside classic black, the Spin is available in flannel grey and boyish brown, which should pair well if you’re a fan of blush and cosmetic tones.
While you won’t find any slip pockets and pouches here, a generous single compartment provides you with all the space you’d ever need for life’s daily essentials.
A sleeker take on the tote thanks to its single handle, the Spin comes finished with gorgeous gold hardware and an understated metallic logo.
Best Designer Tote Bags for Every Style and Need
Whether you’re prioritizing timeless utility, sustainable fashion, or maximum storage, these standout totes offer something for every style and need. With the right tote in hand, you’re not just carrying a bag—you’re making a statement.
