5 Go-to carry all tote bags!
I think tote bags are an underestimated wardrobe essential!
They’re honestly my favourite every-day bag. A tote can instantly add something extra to your outfit. As well as of course work as a functional carry-all. However, it's finding the right one that can hold everything, as well as elevate your street style which can be a big undertaking -
The fabric has to be the right density.
The shoulder straps need to be the right length.
The general design, pattern or logo has to be clean etc.
So I’ve done the work for you! (you’re welcome 😉 )
Side Note : Honestly, when you’re a guy, bags are hard!
I loathe backpacks.
I understand the functionality but my god! When I am on a tram or train and someone is just bashing me constantly because they don’t consider the extra space they’re using… argh, it just makes me want to throw it out the window!
Anyway!
Laptop bags are not ideal either.
They’re so circa-2001 ‘metro-sexual’ and are usually made from that cheap knock off leather. I cannot deal - which reminds me of those corporates that wear a brown laptop bag with those caramel leather pointed shoes...
honestly, I need to stop myself right now haha!
Pulling myself back into the topic at hand, the tote bag has been a lifesaver in terms of not committing any transportation incidents or falling victim to a fashion crisis on the daily.
So here are a few (5) of my current favourites that will instantly elevate your initial thoughts on tote bags, and your street style. Because I know some of you can only relate tote bags to those freebie uni student, flimsy, stained bags that carry textbooks or gym gear.
Afends Tote
I Love these totes! they have 3 colour ways, this off-white one, a rust orange and a black-ish one.
A Simple, relaxed design with plenty of room to store all of my every day office needs which I’ll mention what those are to paint a good picture -
Laptop, wallet, keys, diary, drink bottle, re-usable coffee cup, packed lunch and some headphones - when I remember to bring all of those I seriously feel like I’m adulting so hard! 🤣
I love the embroidered ‘Afends’ label. It’s just so effortless and a throw back to early American style that’s just so ‘in’ atm. They’re only $20 and I got mine free when I purchased some super cool beige corded jeans. So I highly recommend you check them out! (tap the photo to shop)
Asos Olive Canvas Tote
I like this one because it’s a larger style. Sort of an in-between a tote and holdall. Which is great if you need to pack a few extras. I like the contrast between the strap and the bag. Very skandi-mod cool kid if you ask me. If you have that sort of nordic style that is more on the cheery side of things, (incorporating colours and prints etc. and ride a bike) I would go for something like this. (tap the pic to shop btw)
Vans Opaque Tote
Okay so a lil’ more sporty, en-vogue kind of vibe.
I like that the clear aspect of the bag is more opaque than just clear. It has a more futuristic, clinical kind of vibe, than just a clear fabric which pulls more of an 80s aesthetic. I like this bag if you wanted to pull a more contemporary street style look. Think like an all black outfit with lace up boots. Or an easy everyday, black and white sports luxe look.
Perfect!
New Yorker Tote
Now the link takes you to ebay where you can buy the tote. But honestly, just do the sign up to the Newyorker Mag. for $10 and get the freebie.
This is a great graphic style that’s more a pattern than a print. It’s just more sophisticated than a uni or band tote in my eyes and works well for any outfit. Also, I honestly think people just read you as a more well-rounded, educated type just having it. I dunno, but the visual cues just come into play with this one.
AS COLOUR CARRIE BAG
I like to think of this bag as the go-to classic.
It’s going to go with anything you put on and store everything you need.
Comes in a variety of colours.
good fabric thickness.
Great price
And hey! if you really want, you can get it personalised on a few websites. Mind you, you’ll have to get a fair few printed but! it works as a great foundation piece to launch that merch. line you’ve been thinking about releasing 😉
I hope these bags have helped you out in your search of the perfect every day bag. I know atm we are not really heading outside. But! online shopping is still a thing for now and we’re all going to need something to carry all our stuff in once we can head out into the world again!
Ditch the backpack, and the laptop bag, as opt. for one of these bad boys!
Until next time, check out my other lifestyle posts!
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Loui.