23 Best Designer Tote Bags worth investing in 2022
Tote bags have become increasingly popular as a fashionable yet practical handbag option. The fashion world has slowly shifted away from small handbags to big bags being back in style! In this article, we will be highlighting the 23 best designer tote bags that are on the market. You will find classic and timeless designs to more trendy and modern styles. There is a tote bag for everyone’s style on today’s list.
History of the Tote Bag
The tote bag has been around for years, and dates back all the way to the 17th century. We can thank LL Bean for the first tote bag style we see today. Back in 1940, LL Bean created their first bag to carry both Ice and Wood. However, it wasn’t until Jane Birkin was riding a plane in 1983 sitting next to the CEO of Hermes that she discussed her needs for an all in one large tote bag, thus the launch of the first luxury tote bag: The Hermes Birkin Bag.
Today, there are hundreds of different tote bags out there ranging in price from affordable to luxurious. Drum roll please!! It is time to count down the 5 Best Designer tote bags worth investing in.
Dior Book Tote Bag
Number 1 on the list should come to no surprise as it is the one of the most coveted designer tote bags today, the Dior Book tote bag. Ever since the release of the Dior Book Tote bag back in the Spring/Summer 2018 collection, it has been a Dior top seller ever since. This Book Tote bag comes in a variety of colors and sizes. This is the perfect street style bag, travel bag, and overall tote bag. The Dior Book Tote Bag is one of the best Dior bags and is both stylish and chic. Without a doubt, the Dior Tote bag has earned its spot as one of the best designer tote bags worth investing in.
Large Size: 16.5″W x 14″H x 7.5″D
Price: $3,500
Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote Bag
Another classic designer tote bag that is worth investing in is the Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote Bag. The Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote Bag was first introduced as a beach only bag, but quickly gained popularity as a versatile bag that can be worn year around. Did you know that you can carry up to 90 KG (198 LBS) in the Louis Vuitton Neverfull Tote without breaking the handles? The Louis Vuitton Neverfull comes in multiple sizes and styles.
I can speak from personal experience, owning this bag for more than 10 years now. The Louis Vuitton Neverfull Designer Tote Bag is in great condition and in my opinion will easily last for years to come.
GM Size: 15.7″W x 13″H x 7.9″D
Price: $2,100
Goyard Tote Bag
Another designer tote bag that has earned it’s spot at being on the list is the Goyard Tote Bag. The Goyard Tote bag is known for being well sewn, using high-quality material, and is lightweight. This large classic tote bag is extremely well-made and is definitely a piece worth investing in. The Goyard tote is often compared to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull because of the similar shape and size.
Unlike other big designer names, Goyard is more similar to Hermes, where there is much mystery surrounding the brand. With only a handful of locations in the US and worldwide, Goyard has maintained its allure and continues to focus on craftsmanship and their high quality products. Goyard products continue to maintain their value over the years.
Size: 13.5″W x 11″H x 6″D
Price: $1,620
Birkin 35 or Birkin 40
If you are looking to splurge and price is not an issue, then I definitely recommend the Birkin 35 or Birkin 40. This is the ultimate tote bag. The Birkin bag comes in a variety of sizes. I have a friend who swears by the Birkin 35 as a tote bag, and carries her computer in her bag. I have a Birkin 30 bag and cannot carry my computer in the bag, so if you are looking to use this bag as a tote to carry many items, then definitely size up to the Birkin 35 or Birkin 40.
Normally, when I recommend a designer tote bag that’s worth investing in, I would like it to have a shoulder strap because you are typically carrying many items in your tote. However, the Birkin bag is the ultimate tote and deserves a place on our list today! If you are traveling to Paris, I wrote an entire article about how to purchase a Birkin Bag in Paris.
Brikin 35 Size: 14”W x 10”H x 7”D
Brikin 40 Size: 16” W x 12” H x 8” D
Price Size 35: $12,400
Price: Size 40: $13,200
Rebecca Minkoff Tote Bag
One of the more affordable designer tote bags that is worth investing in is the Rebecca Minkoff Tote Bag. I purchased this bag about 5 years ago and still love it today! The Rebecca Minkoff tote has high quality leather that has ample amount of space. I'm a huge fan of leather tote bags and this one is perfect. Not to mention, is a great work tote, and I can easily fit my laptop, tablet, and small items inside.
The style I am carrying is no longer available. However, there are several other models that are all priced under $250.
Over the years Rebecca Minkoff has gained popularity through her timeless contemporary designs. Today, Rebecca Minkoff is carried worldwide and is sold at several big department stores in Paris. I highly recommend adding a Rebecca Minkoff purse to your collection. In fact, I have 2 bags from the brand.
Gucci GG Marmont Matelassé tote
The Gucci GG Marmont tote bag has been reimagined from the iconic Gucci GG Marmont bag. This tote bag is known for his quilted leather and infamous GG logo, giving it a luxurious look that can be worn both at the office or a night out. One of the most appealing features is the spacious interior, which has enough space to carry all your essentials.
The Gucci GG Marmont Tote Bag comes in the traditional black color, forest green, and newly launched as part of the Cruise 2023 collection brown with merino wool trim.
Size: 13.8″W x 10.6″H x 5.1″D
Price: $2,700
Prada Galleria Tote
The Prada Galleria tote is an iconic and staple piece in the Prada lineup. The Galleria tote first made its appearance in 2007. The bag is named after and draws inspiration from the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is where Prada opened its first shop in 1913.
This bag is crafted using Prada’s iconic Saffiano leather, and features the Prada logo on the front of the bag. The Galleria tote embodies the essence of the Prada brand and reflects its core values. The bag features a central opening and two zip compartments on either side. This tote bag comes in 6 different sizes and comes in a magnitude of colors ranging from neutral colors to bright fun colors. The Large Prada Galleria Tote can definitely fit a computer.
Large Size: 14″W x 10″H x 7″D
Price: $4,500
Saint Laurent Sac De Jour
Saint Laurent first introduced the Sac De Jour tote in 2013 by Heidi Slimane and has undergone several iterations to reach its current design and structure. The Sac De Jour (SDJ) is a timeless bag that can easily be carried from day to night year round. It’s name, which literally translates to “bag of the day” reflects its practical design. This tote features two top handles, a rigid rectangular shape, and a removable leather padlock.
This bag is both fashionable and functional that has been around and popular for almost 10 years!
Large Size: 15.7″W X 11.8″H X 8.2″D
Price: $4,000
Telfar T-Logo shopping bag
Telfar Bag first hit the market in 2014 and rose in popularity. This tote bag is known for being genderless and unisex. The Telfar Shopping Bag is made of vegan leather, features a large logo on the side, and a cross-body strap. The design of this bag was inspired by Bloomingdale's shopping bags, and is often compared to the Hermes Birkin.
Thanks to Beyonce’s song Summer Renaissance, Telfar bags are more popular than ever, and is even difficult to purchase one. In order to get your hands on a Telfar you must participate in the “Drop” on their website. In these drops, Telfar sells a certain number of bags on a certain day. Within minutes these drops sell out and if you don’t snag one you have to wait until the next drop.
Large Size: 15″W x 11 1/4″H x 5″D
Price: $202
Coach Willow Leather Tote
The Coach Willow tote is the perfect bag for carrying all of your daily essentials. It is made from polished pebble leather, features two open pockets, a secure center zip, and shoulder straps with a longer drop. This tote bag can fit up to a 13″ laptop, making it a practical bag for work and stylish at the same time. The Willow tote is finished with the Signature Coach turn lock closure, which adds sophistication to its design.
Large Size: 13.5″W x 10 3/4″H x 5 3/4″D
Price: $350
Rive Gauche Tote
The Rive Gauche Tote bag by Saint Laurent launched a few years ago, but gained immense popularity in the Summer of 2022. This tote bag is made of 3 elements, 60% cotton, 40% linen, and features Leather straps. The Saint Laurent tote features the words “RIVE GAUCHE” printed across the front, with smaller “SAINT LAURENT” text beneath it. Similar to other tote bags, this one is a great for everyday use and travel.
Large Size: 15.4″W x 12.2″H x 7.1″D
Price: $1,790
Longchamp Le Pliage Tote
The Le Pilage Tote bags by Longchamp is one of the most accessible and popular bags Longchamp makes. It is known rectangular shape, nylon material, leather straps, and zipper closure. This iconic bag was designed in 1993 by Philippe Cassegrain, it’s name “Le Pliage” which is French translates to “folding.” This is in reference to how easily the nylon material can be folded up when it’s not being used.
Large Size: 12.25″L x 11.75″H x 7.5″D
Price: $155
Salvatore Ferragamo Travel Leather Tote
Salvatore Ferragamo Leather Travel Tote bag is a traditional style tote bag with one large, spacious pocket. This tote bag features double handles, a 9-inch drop, turn lock closure, and features the iconic Ferragamo logo in gold hardware. This pebbled leather tote bag makes for the perfect work bag, and the gold hardware really elevate the look.
Large Size: 16″W x 10.5″H x 6″D
Price: $1,690
Christian Louboutin Cabata Leather Tote
The Christian Louboutin Cabata Leather Tote bag is a classic tote bag with a unique twist. Similar to Christian Louboutin Red bottom shoes, this bag features the signature red color on the bottom and the inside of the bag. On the base of the handles you will find the iconic Louboutin spikes giving the bag a bit of an edgy look. One of the best part Christian Louboutin bags is they are built to last! This tote is both chic and practical, with ample amount of space to hold all your belongings.
Large Size: 15.5″W x 11.5″H x 5.5″D
Price: $1,490
Chloé Large Woody Canvas Tote
One of the best and most popular Chloe bags worth investing in is the Chloe Large Woody Canvas Tote bag. Released in 2005, the Chloe Woody Tote bag is known for its long logo ribbon straps and linen canvas and leather exterior. Inside you will find a large, roomy compartment with a center flap pocket. In my opinion, this tote bag is perfect for the Spring and Summer!
Size: 13″H x 17.7″W x 5.2″D
Price: $1,450
Kate Spade Cara Tote Bag Large
Classic and Timeless are two words to describe the Kate Spade Cara Large Tote. Launched in 2021, this tote bag has earned its spot in the Kate Spade lineup. With a minimalistic design and small logo, this is the ultimate work bag. This tote features one large compartment and a zipper closure. What I love about this bag is the different colors it comes in, from pastels to the neutrals, with the most popular being the color black.
Size: 11.48”H x 15.2”W x 5”D
Price: $129
The Strathberry Tote bag
Strathberry first launched in 2013. This London brand iconic bags have been seen on several celebrities including the royal family. One of the most famous and popular Strathberry bag is the Strathberry Tote Bag. This structured tote bag featured a gold closure bar across the top of the bag. This bag comes in 3 sizes, including a large tote bag big enough to fit a Macbook computer.
Size: 11.48”H x 15.2”W x 5”D
Price: $129
Chanel Supermodel Tote bag
The Chanel Weekender bag also known as the Supermodel bag is a vintage Chanel tote bag that was launched in the 90s. Even though it was discontinued, there is still a demand for this vintage bag. This bag features quilted calfskin leather, a giant signature “CC” in 24k gold-plated hardware with a flap closure. This iconic 17 inch tote weekender bag is the perfect luxury travel tote bag.
Size: 13.75″H x 17.75″ W x 7″D
Price: Average: $8,000
Burberry Lola Quilted Leather Shopper Bag
The Burberry Lola quilted tote bag is the ultimate chic tote bag. This bag features gold chain hardware and black quilted lambskin, giving it a luxurious look and feel. There is one main interior compartment with a magnet closure. With a width of 11 inches this bag can easily fit your tablet, phone, wallet, and other accessories. Burberry is notorious for making high quality products, including their infamous Burberry Trench Coat and the Burberry shopper bag is no different.
Size: 16″W x 11″H x 6.5″D
Price: Average: $2,490
Marc Jacobs Large Monogram Denim Tote
The Marc Jacobs monogram denim tote bag features a large scale logo on an Italian denim tote bag. This bag has two top handles and an adjustable cross-body strap. This is the ultimate casual everyday fun logo tote bag that is composed of both cotton and denim.
Size: 13″W x 11″H x 6″D
Price: Average: $325
Givenchy G-Tote bag
The Givenchy G-Tote bag is made of high-quality canvas materials and features the iconic Givency logo on the front. This is more of a casual tote, that is perfect for the beach or the city. Being slightly over 10.5 inches wide, you can easily carry your ipad, accessories or groceries using this bag.
Size: 14.6″W x 10.6″H x 5.5″D
Price: Average: $1,275
Moynat oh! Tote bag
The Parisian Brand Moynat Paris, popular Oh! Tote bag is an iconic canvas tote that is worth investing in. This bag features a stylish tricolored stripe with the brand's iconic Moynat Macaron logo in the middle. Available in a variety of colors, with the most popular being the black. This lightweight 13.5 width tote bags enables you to carry all your essentials throughout the day, and can easily fit a 13-inch MacBook computer. If you are looking for a canvas bag that is luxurious but not mainstream, then this tote is perfect for you!
Size: 16.5″ W x 10.6″H X 5.4″D
Price: $1,640
Tom Ford Small East/West Grained Leather Tote
This Tom Ford East West Leather tote bag is the ultimate tote bag that can be worn to the office. The high quality grained calfskin leather and the polished gold logo hardware is the perfect blend of chic and sophistication. This lightweight, 14 inches wide tote, can easily carry a computer, tablet, phone and notebook. The structured silhouette and flat base make the Tom Ford Small East/West Grained Leather Tote perfect for standing upright and holding its shape, even when it is filled with your daily essentials.
Size: 13.75″W x 11″H x 5″D
Price: $1,590
Recap on the 23 Best Designer Tote Bags worth investing in
The 2 most talked about bags on the market today are tote bags and small / mini bags. (A new article about designer small bags was just published!) Personally, I think it’s hilarious because they are on opposite sides of the spectrum and offer a completely different look.
With that being said, I adore designer tote bags! It is one of those accessories that can carry all your daily essentials, wallet and more! When buying a bag, it's important that you find the right tote bag for you, your needs and matches your personal style.
I love hearing from you, is there a designer tote bag that you absolutely adore that didn’t make the list?
Sincerely Petite in Paris,
Diane
