Summer totes for every occasion
From breezy coastal getaways to strolls in the big city
Honestly, I was tote-ally (had to!) excited about writing this post, as I’ve been lusting over so many great appropriately [so not ludicrously] capacious bags with summer on the horizon.
When it comes to choosing a tote (or really most fashion items for that matter), I’m quite picky because I want the bag to be a piece I’ll use year after year. That means it has to fit some key criteria. My must haves include:
True shoulder straps - anything shorter is just not practical in my book because I need at least 1 free hand for my matcha!
Large enough to carry the essentials
Sufficiently sturdy to withstand more “fashionably rugged” use
Ideally not “run of the mill” - when you’re out and about, you should rarely see someone else carrying it
Can’t be so wide such that it awkwardly protrudes from your body and shoulder, knocking into everything around you - want to avoid bull in a china shop vibes
And in narrowing down my favorites, I bucketed them into 3 themes that seem to cover my bases when it comes to the major use cases.
For my first 3 picks, the inspiration was “Summer on the Italian Riviera”. Channeling Gwyneth in The Talented Mr. Ripley - think flowing white linens, espadrilles, gelato slowly melting off of the cone, and tart citrus. Stripes are everywhere, but in a non-preppy way, with the varied colors coordinating with a specific beach club. Here are the bags I would carry as I walk across the rocky terrain and gaze out onto the sparkling blue sea, Aperol Spritz in hand (duh!).
Mansur Gavriel Limited Edition Pascucci Tote: I’m admittedly not a big stripes girl, but ever since MG launched this partnership with Stamperia Pascucci 2 years ago, I have repeatedly revisited the bag selection. I love the fact that it can fit a laptop, has leather handles, and the base is slightly circular which makes for a more visually appealing and dare I say “summery” shape. Their Raffia Market Tote is a more subdued, but beautiful choice too.
Clare V. L’ete Tote: This comes in two different versions - the more beachy version below as well as the weekender version in a fun green and navy. It’s lightweight, so easy to pack, but also perfectly roomy for all of your summer and beach essentials. Clare V.’s Sandy Tote, which has almost gone viral at this point is a more minimalist woven option, which comes in 3 different colors - natural, black, and orange + blue. Note that during May, it’s 15% off everything at Clare V. with code LEWEEKEND15 - get it while it’s hot!
Loeffler Randall Crochet Tote: This comes in the light blue and white (pictured) as well as green and white, which gives strong Zendaya tennis-core vibes. I also love the Orion striped version here. It’s slightly smaller than a typical tote, but has handles that are long enough for a comfortable shoulder carry. If you’re looking for something roomier that skews a bit more muted, the Angelo Timber Woven Leather Tote in gorgeous vegetable-tanned leather, could be just the thing.
My next theme is “Day-to-Night Transition”. In my mind, the Olsen twins are the embodiment of this type of ease. There are countless articles that feature their looks as perfect transitional styles - it’s no surprise that The Row is known for this specific versatility and aesthetic. These bags will make you feel chic and appropriately dressy, regardless of the hour hand on the clock.
Dragon Diffusion Vintage Mesh Tote: I’ve been so happy with the craftsmanship and quality of the Dragon Diffusion bag that I purchased last summer, though it’s not large enough to be considered a true tote. Here’s a roomier option made to last year-after-year. Though harder to find these days, the large version of the Santa Croce is also a true beauty (smaller version here is much easier to find).
Ulla Johnson Tulia Large Knotted Hobo Bag: It also comes in a gorgeous, rich brown pecan shade. This is likely more ideal for those who worry that white will get too dirty. I absolutely adore the fact that this bag has the traditional elements of a woven summer bag, but is made from leather, which increases the durability. Visually, I really appreciate that there are 4 different weaves throughout the piece.
Hereu Calella Leather Tote: Though the bag can function year round, I found the shape to feel a bit more summery. It also comes in this distressed black leather version and if you love raffia in brown or black, or canvas and leather combos, you’re covered. If you’re looking for more of a splurge option, this bag reminds me of the Khaite Sara Tote, currently on sale in white, tan, or black (a rare treat!).
My final picks are inspired by a “Summer in the City” vibe. This could be NYC, London, Rome…you name it. These selects are for those who love a minimalist summer wardrobe filled with chic neutrals. The visual I specifically had for this one was SJP as Carrie in her SATC charcoal LBD, but swap in some barely there flats for traversing the town in the sun, hair slightly curled from humidity, and iced matcha latte in hand. With this theme, raffia is king (or should I say queen!), because it celebrates the season.
Janessa Leone Tanner Bag: Uniquely comes with a mechanism for carrying your hat without worrying about it getting crushed or damaged. If you’re someone who never leaves the house in the summer without a hat, this one feels just right.
ME+EM Soft Raffia Tote: It’s giving the Loewe Puzzle Raffia Tote, but flipped horizontally instead a vertically, and for a beautiful fraction of the price.
Nili Lotan Lucile Tote: If you love the classic Loewe classic basket bags, but aren’t big into logos, this option gives a gorgeous quality, quiet luxury vibe without the high price tag.
Loewe Hobo in Raffia & Calfskin: If you’re going for a splurge, my vote would be this one because it’s understated and edgy while still being minimalist luxury. This is one of Loewe’s latest bags that is perfectly roomy with comfortable shoulder straps. Some of their other designs aren’t as shoulder friendly if you’re going to be walking a few miles. If you’re looking for a great classic option, you also can’t go wrong with their Anagram beauty.
Cheers to summer totes!
x jz
Images | 1 - 2 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me | 3 | Mansur Gavriel | 4 | Clare V. | 5 | Loeffler Randall | 6 - 7 | Shopbop | 8 | Bergdorf Goodman | 9 | Janessa Leone | 10 | ME+EM | 11 | Nili Lotan | 12 | Loewe | 13 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me
This post contains some affiliate links. Please note that all recommendations and opinions are my own.
_________________________
Looking for a gift? Check out these female-founded options across capsule wardrobe fashion, luxe style, beauty, home decor, food, and general gifting
Read more about my morning with stylist Allison Bornstein IRL - part 1 and part 2
Packing tips for your upcoming trip can be discovered here, plus options for the beach and sunny cities like Miami
And if you’re a modern classics lover like me and seeking timeless pieces, you’ll love this analysis of Camille’s style from Emily in Paris, plus this and this. And if you’re a fan of denim on denim, look no further