Recognized Choices
Photograph: Cozy Earth
Cozy Earth Waxed Canvas Tote for $115: For those who appreciate understated, practical fashion with a touch of “subdued elegance,” this 12-ounce waxed canvas tote embodies that essence. In terms of aesthetics, think Yeezy style circa 2017 (minus the controversies). I prefer mine in washed navy, but the earthy shades—cedar brown, palm green, and taupe—are just as chic. It’s sturdy enough to handle a trip to the farmer’s market, an overnight excursion, or to serve as a beach tote. The design may be simple but thoughtfully includes exterior pockets for easy access (keys, phone, an emergency snack) and two interior pockets (one being zippered) to keep valuables organized.
Alo Yoga Foxy Sherpa Tote for $288: The Alo Yoga Foxy Sherpa Tote channels the ultimate soft-girl vibe. Crafted from plush faux fur, it features a subtle embroidered Alo logo at the center with no frills. It’s spacious enough for use as an overnight bag, and the ultra-soft handles won’t dig into my shoulders, even when I tend to overpack (which is often). Admittedly, this tote is more suitable for fall and winter—using sherpa in summer seems unnecessary—but during the colder months, it serves as the coziest companion. The main downside is definitely the $288 price point.
Ölend Ona Soft Bag for $100: The Ölend Ona Soft Bag is stuffed, colorful, and available in a myriad of shades. Constructed from water-resistant nylon, it’s a fresh take on the usual tote, crafted to enhance its practicality with every outfit or setting. It can be worn four different ways: as a tote, handbag, crossbody, or even as a backpack. The Soft Bag can accommodate laptops up to 16 inches, though I’d hesitate to place my laptop here due to the lack of a dedicated sleeve. However, the external zipper pocket adds a fun touch for stowing small essentials.
Photograph: Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons Upcycled Patchwork Tote for $66: This is likely the image that comes to mind when you think of a tote—it features one large compartment along with two smaller internal pockets, and doesn’t snap or zip closed. Yet, it comfortably accommodates a laptop, books, and everyday necessities, making it adaptable as a work tote or for a weekend away. Fun fact: It’s crafted from returned and damaged Lo & Sons bags.
Dagne Dover Petra Convertible Tote for $285: The Petra is made from recycled polyester and plastic bottles. It’s sturdy and massive—it can fit a 16-inch laptop and stands nearly 17 inches tall. While it might be too large for daily use, the heavy-duty metal hardware and padded laptop compartment make it practical. For parents, it could also serve well as a diaper bag.
Fjallraven Kånken Totepack for $100: We adore the Kånken backpack! Its Totepack functions similarly while offering the option to convert from a tote to a backpack. The downside is its limited size, accommodating only a 13-inch laptop pocket and featuring two side pockets for water bottles or a small umbrella—but be aware they’re snug, so it may not fit a 1L Nalgene bottle.
