Ask A Stylist: Totes Modern

Carry the day!

In another life, I’m a handbag designer. I’ve always been fascinated by the craftsmanship of leather and the way designers can create something wholly distinctive and new within practical constraints. I also came of age in the mid 2000s when the psychological effect of ‘it’ bags overtook the love of shoes as the accessory du jour. University days were spent lugging those Philo designed Chloé Paddington bags with the giant padlocks around and queuing at samples sales for the chance to own the iconic Marc Jacob’s quilted Stam bag (reissued in 2023, eighteen years after it’s launch with the iconic Jessica Stam once again fronting the campaign!) We graduated into first jobs with the Mulberry Alexa and saved our pennies for the altar of minimalist Céline Cabas totes. In a full circular moment, Philo relaunched the Cabas in XL proportions for 2024. Clearly, stylish dressers are embracing carrying the kitchen sink.

Phoebe Philo’s Cabas has returned in an XL edition for 2024.

I do love a good tote. It’s the wardrobe staple that meets all of my everyday bag needs in the city (laptop! water bottle! snacks! gym kit!) and this season there are plentiful options. I’m drawn to the origami detailing, olive to oxblood leather tones and ease of burnished suede for 2024. I’ve also included second-hand options in near perfect condition where available since this is a timeless wardrobe staple. The more simple a design, the harder it is to execute well so I’m fairly impressed with these commodious totes.

Elevated Functionality

Go long with generous proportions

1. If money were no object, I would seriously invest in Phoebe Philo’s Small Kit Cabas with toffee suede lining. The bag has a silver tone lock closure, leather tie detail and tonal stitching - it’s perfection.

2. The Row’s Idaho is fast becoming a wardrobe staple. I’m not so keen on the spring versions made of canvas (Longchamp vibes anyone?) but I think they’ll be popular due to their more accessible price point. Personally, I’d invest in the deep brown or black leather.

3. I’m a big fan of Seoul based womenswear brand Nothing Written and this Black Ain Croco Tote embodies the brands minimalist aesthetic at a fantastic price.

4. The largest sized offering in Métier’s signature Cala line, the suede 42, allows for a generously liberal packing mindset for everything, plus just-in-case, for the luxury of being indecisive. 

5. Throwing in this high-street find from Mango with just the right proportions to look expensive! Also available in black.

6. Finally, you can’t go wrong with Khaite’s Amelia tote. Supple leather with folded details make this a classic for years to come.

Into The Fold

Origami shapes and metallic details are trending for 2024