Now that we are midway into August, although summer is still here, the season will be winding down in a few weeks. As we revisit our social and professional calendars, it’s clear that vacation time is ending. What better way to get back into the swing of work than to invest in the most key staple of all, the daytime essential tote? As a 35-year executive and mom, I have been through no less than 50 totes in my lifetime, and one thing is clear. Nothing in an ensemble makes a statement as much as the bag you carry. Your clothes and shoes are essential for a complete look, but because they are not used daily, they do not require the thought and financial investment needed to purchase an elegant tote. Whether you work in a corporate or creative environment, are a stay-at-home mom, or are retired and working philanthropically, a tote that chicly carries your day’s essentials will empower you to do whatever you’re doing in style.
Below are my favorites and why I chose them. There are a few key common denominators. Form follows function, and function follows form. Meaning their function, their bells and whistles, make them beautiful. They have elegant, zippered pockets or special functional and gorgeous hardware. They have two handles and/or shoulder straps for easy carrying and the ability to navigate inside and find your keys, wallet, phone, or whatever you have. They are also available in multiple colors, patterns, and materials, so if one color or fabrication is sold out, you have options. Lastly, their timeless beauty equates to resale value if kept in relatively good condition.
Dior Book Tote ($4,500) Dior Large Black Leather Book Tote w S/S
The Dior book tote has always been perfect for carrying almost anything, especially a laptop and anything structured because of its shape and durability. The problem was its lack of a shoulder strap. Now that Dior has finally added the shoulder strap and incorporated a leather version, it’s closer to perfection than ever. Its structure, though, may be a challenge in addition to its lack of a zip top or some fastener at the top. It is still a great bag for work and carrying all
Pros: Chic, smart, timeless
Cons: are that there is no fastener at the top, making it a challenge for travel. Also, while the shoulder strap helps, it’s awkward as a genuine shoulder bag; you will undoubtedly carry it in your hands like before the shoulder strap was added.
Prada ($4,400) Prada Medium Leather Shoulder Bag Cognac
This bag is super chic and understated, similar to The Row’s Margaux, but easier to locate in stores and online and more moderately priced. While not inexpensive, it holds a lot and certainly has enough polish to make a statement at your next meeting. I prefer the black colorway, but the cognac is pretty, too.
Pros: Prada bags are always chic and in demand. The leather is rich but durable. They’re spacious but not massively overwhelming, even on a petite frame.
Cons: It resembles the Margaux, so if you’re striving for something bold and original, this may not be your perfect bag.
Saint Laurent Animal Print Tote ($5,100 in leopard, $3,450 in solid) Saint Laurent Leopard Print Tote
If you want a bold, confident statement, why not opt for an oversized animal print tote? Saint Laurent’s totes are durable and beautiful, in solid or print. If your bag complements a powerful Saint Laurent corporate siren outfit, even better!
Pros: Spacious and statement bags, Saint Laurent bags, particularly totes, are always chic for the ‘rich mom aesthetic’ or the corporate executive on the go. They are equally fabulous for travel before, during and after the actual flight or drive.
Cons: The animal print version is a bit pricey, but the leather options offer a great alternative.
Jil Sander Folded Leather Buckle Tote ($4,500) Jil Sander Large Tote
This sleek yet oversized tote is constructed of rich, supple leather and adjustable straps.
Pros: it fits everything, and Jil Sander is resurging as one of the ‘it’ brands of the summer and, indeed, into fall.
Cons: The closure has a magnetic fastener inside, and the lining is cream-colored canvas, making pen marks or spots noticeable. It is pricier than the others, and the lack of structure may be a drawback, depending on your needs.
Tom Ford Audrey Tote ($2,190) Tom Ford Large Audrey Tote Black
This bag is simple, elegant, smart, and polished. It screams power, and I can never say no to a bag with a belt or strap closure.
Pros: Exquisite bag, sturdy material, ease of entry to find your things, interior pockets, and a long enough drop shoulder strap
Cons: There are none except needing additional snap closure(s)! This bag is perfect!
Ferragamo Medium Calf Leather Tote Bag ($2,200) Ferragamo Medium Tote
An elegant choice for understated luxury and at a relatively palatable price point, this option works for all your daytime and early evening events. Ferragamo is steadily gaining appeal in the luxury handbag market, and you really can’t go wrong with this option.
Pros: beautiful, elegant, and smart, soft but structured
Cons: None! Unlike other options, it has a flap over the top for security and closure.
Bottega Veneta Andiamo Tote ($5,500) Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo Tote
I have always loved this bag and Bottega Veneta’s craftsmanship. The colors in which this bag is available are all stunning.
Pros: It’s beautiful and statement-worthy! It’s functional, with sections inside and interior pockets. The long, braided strap functions as a cross-body or shoulder strap and adds elegance.
Cons: Bottega Veneta bags are on the pricey side and more delicate than most totes. If this is your only tote, it is not your bag.
Hermes Birkin ‘Good Condition’($20,000) Birkin 30 Black
While a Birkin is, for many, the holy grail of holy grail bags, it warrants its illustrious mystique. The ease of entry to access your things, the way the larger sizes (30, 35, and above) easily store a small laptop, and the pockets inside make it super high functioning. The dimensions, hardware, and many chic ways it can be worn make it the most exquisite bag ever designed. Legend has it that it was created on the back of a napkin on an airplane, demonstrating that love and intention trump all.
Pros: Everything
Cons: The challenges, cost, and otherwise, of obtaining them!
