A beautiful designer handbag effortlessly pulls together any outfit, and the best designer tote bags do exactly that, plus add functionality to comfortably hold your essentials. “Crafted with precision and using high-quality materials, designer handbags exceeds that of non-designer alternatives, says Danielle Gumina, content editor at Fashionphile, who recommends investing in one. Plus, if cared for properly, the premium materials and craftsmanship means you’ll own it for years to come. We curated the best designer tote bag picks to shop, including gorgeous quiet luxury pieces that will undoubtedly stand the test of time, elevated leather shopper totes, fun canvas and raffia options for the impending warm weather, and a few other luxe and covetable styles to add to your wish list.
The best designer tote bags, at a glance
- Best Leather Tote Bag: Loewe Puzzle Fold Medium Tote, $1,900
- Best Canvas Tote Bag: Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM Tote, $1,765
- Best Suede Tote Bag: Khaite Lotus Mini Suede Tote, $1,980
- Best Straw Tote Bag: Prada Raffia Tote Bag, $2,050
- Best Work Tote Bag: Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote, $398
- Best Packable Travel Tote Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Tote, $155
- Best Mini Tote Bag: Balenciaga Mini Duty-Free Canvas Tote, $1,190
- Best Top-Handle Tote Bag: Bottega Veneta Medium Andiamo Intrecciato Top-Handle Tote, $5,100
Why shop for a designer tote bag?
“Unlike other fast fashion items that lose their worth quickly, designer handbags often maintain or even increase in value,” Gumina says, while name checking brands such Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Saint Laurent as the most popular on Fashionphile’s resale site. Whether you sell it down the road or pass it on to future generations, it automatically becomes a cherished heirloom.
How to shop for a designer tote
As you’re considering your new bag purchase, keep your personal style and needs in mind. You want to find something you can always turn to and won’t get sick of after one season. Classic designs won’t go out of style, of course, but take an audit of your wardrobe first. Most importantly, think of how, when, and where you’ll use your tote. Do you typically carry a lot of stuff or do you travel light? Is it something spacious that should double as a work laptop bag? Or do you prefer a smaller everyday bag that you can use on-the-go? Ultimately, if it’s a style that can serve you from weekday to weekend, it’s worth thinking about splurging for a designer version. And check out our designer wallet picks to pair with your tote.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
