Aesthetic preferences evolve, whether we like it or not. Don’t believe me? Just compare your current style with photos from 2–3 years ago - it’s unlikely your fashion sense remains unchanged. That’s exactly how my story with tote bags began. Once upon a time, I disliked - no, hated - these handheld designs 😅.
Why? The reasoning was pretty standard. Tote bags reminded me too much of women’s handbags. Especially the thin, canvas styles - they looked better suited for carrying groceries than for everyday use.
Yet here I am, a proud tote bag enthusiast. Over time, through gifted items and personal exploration, I started choosing tote bags for myself. Here’s how it all unfolded:
Maison Kitsuné Fabric Bag
This was the first tote bag that felt substantial enough for daily use. Before this, I only used tote bags as a substitute for plastic bags - functional, but nothing stylish.
The canvas material of this bag was noticeably thicker than the typical flimsy totes I’d encountered. Still, it wasn’t enough to fully win me over...
WANT Les Essentiels O’Hare Tote Bag
Things started to shift when I received the O’Hare tote in nylon from WANT Les Essentiels, back around 2016–2017. As a leather aficionado, my first impression of the bag was lukewarm.
But the Italian nylon changed everything. Its drape mimicked the elegance of a tailored suit - thin yet remarkably durable. In fact, after years of use, it only has a small scratch from an accidental scrape on concrete 😂.
The detachable strap was a game-changer for me, allowing it to transition into a crossbody bag when needed. This feature was perfect for someone like me, still skeptical about totes at the time.
With every use, I appreciated it more. WANT Les Essentiels crafts their bags with such modern practicality that before you know it, you’re hooked. For me, the O’Hare was the gateway to seeing totes - and handbags in general - in a new light.
Article & Goods Modern tote
After falling for the nylon tote, I decided to try a leather option. I landed on the Modern Tote by Article & Goods, drawn in by its deep brown color, textured grain leather, and minimalist design.
The bag fits a 13-inch laptop along with a few essentials, thanks to its slim width of under 8 cm. The sturdy leather and impeccable stitching proved to me that tote bags are anything but flimsy.
Bleu de Chauffe Bazar tote bag
If anyone still thinks tote bags are “feminine,” the Bazar tote bag will make them think twice. Crafted from rugged Jeep canvas and featuring thick, vegetable-tanned leather handles, this bag is the epitome of durability.
It can easily hold a 13-inch laptop - with space to spare. While it’s a bit loose for smaller loads, stuffing it with more essentials balances the bag perfectly.
I love items that age beautifully, like raw denim or leather, and this bag fits that philosophy. Over time, the canvas softens, and the handles develop character, making the bag uniquely yours.
Our Legacy Sub leather tote bag
The Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic has always fascinated me, and Our Legacy perfectly encapsulates it. This tote is crafted from crocodile-textured leather - a departure from my usual preference for smooth or pebble-grain leather, showing how tastes can evolve.
Compact at 31 cm x 23 cm x 6 cm, it’s designed for small essentials. While the short handles feel unstable, the long strap saves the day, allowing me to wear it crossbody for a polished, hands-free look.
Adam’s Peach navy suede tote bag
This Korean brand excels in craftsmanship, and their horizontal suede tote bag is a testament to that. The minimal design is elevated by meticulous details: contrasting white stitching, leather trims, adjustable snap buttons, and a bottom panel crafted from a single piece of smooth leather.
The result? A refined and functional bag that feels just as good as it looks. No wonder Adam’s Peach has become a global favorite - it’s the latest addition to my tote collection 🤣.
If you’re wondering what my next tote will be, I can’t say for sure. But one thing’s certain: once you fall for tote bags, there’s no turning back. It’s like sinking into quicksand - the more you resist, the deeper you go. Cheers to the tote life!
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