{"id":949483,"date":"2025-12-08T16:28:48","date_gmt":"2025-12-08T13:28:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=949483"},"modified":"2025-12-08T16:28:48","modified_gmt":"2025-12-08T13:28:48","slug":"the-5-best-tote-bags-that-take-byrdie-editors-from-summer-to-fall","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=949483","title":{"rendered":"The 5 Best Tote Bags That Take Byrdie Editors From Summer to Fall"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

The 5 Best Tote Bags That Take Byrdie Editors From Summer to Fall<\/h1>\n

Whether you’re going back to school or back to the office, these tote bags check off all your needs.<\/p>\n

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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Shauna Beni-Haynes<\/p>\n
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\"Shauna\"Shauna<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nShauna Beni-Haynes\n<\/div>\n
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  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nShauna Beni-Haynes is a Senior Editor at Byrdie, where she tests and curates the best in makeup, skincare, haircare, and fashion. As an expert in the beauty and fashion industry with five years of experience, she strives to provide her audience with informative and engaging content through social media and editorial content.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Updated on September 17, 2025 11:51AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Leave a Comment<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/h2>\n
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    View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    • \n
      Top Picks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      Reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      What to Look For<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      How We Tested<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      Meet Our Expert<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
    • \n
      Why Trust Byrdie<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"A\"A<\/div>\n<\/div>
      <\/p>\n

      Byrdie<\/p>\n

      <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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      TL;DR<\/p>\n

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      Our favorite tote bag is the Cuyana Small System Zipper Tote, designed to hold all your everyday essentials. It\u2019s structured from smooth Italian pebbled leather, giving it a stylish and luxurious look. The Quince Italian Suede Shopper Tote is a close runner-up. It features spacious compartments and several additional pockets to help you organize your essentials.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      No matter where you go, from the beach to the classroom to weekend trips, a great tote bag is the ultimate year-round accessory. They come in various sizes, are generally spacious, and can be worn in multiple ways, thanks to the top handles and (sometimes included) shoulder straps. That\u2019s why we set out to find the best transitional totes that can seamlessly carry you from all your thrilling summer adventures to easy fall routines.\n<\/p>\n

      “Cotton totes are great for a more casual look. Leather totes have a more elevated, sleek look. It truly depends on the overall vibe you want,” says personal stylist and style coach, Samantha Dawn. So, to find the most chic and durable options, we tapped Dawn for insight and asked our editors to test a range of tote bags over several weeks\u2014taking them on errands, travel days, coffee runs, and busy commutes. We took note of the comfort, capacity, organization, and, of course, style. From classic, structured leather styles to raffia-woven picks with detailed leather stitching, these totes prove they\u2019re not just for one season. Ahead, find our favorites that earned a permanent spot in our wardrobes, because you deserve a bag that\u2019ll work just as hard as you do.\n<\/p>\n

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      Top Picks<\/h2>\n
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      Best Overall:<\/div>\n

      Cuyana Small System Zipper Tote at Cuyana<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best for Work:<\/div>\n

      B\u00e9is The Work Tote at Beistravel.com<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Leather:<\/div>\n

      Quince Shopper Tote at Quince.com<\/span>$178<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Raffia:<\/div>\n

      S\u00e9zane Justine Tote at Sezane.com<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Canvas:<\/div>\n

      L.L. Bean Mini Boat and Tote at L.L.Bean<\/span>$28<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Overall
      \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

      Cuyana Small System Zipper Tote <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Cuyana\"Cuyana<\/div>
      Credit: Cuyana<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      View on Cuyana<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Material:<\/strong> Italian leather | Colors:<\/strong> 6 | Dimensions:<\/strong> 9 x 14 x 5 inches\n<\/p>\n

      Your everyday bag should carry everything you need, without weighing you down. That\u2019s why we\u2019re loving Cuyana\u2019s Small System Zipper Tote as the ultimate upgrade to your daily go-to handbag. And don\u2019t be fooled by the word \u201csmall\u201d\u2014this sleek tote can fit a 14-inch laptop, cellphone, wallet, keys, and more, all without feeling bulky. You can carry it by the leather top handles or go hands-free using the removable crossbody strap. Our tester was especially obsessed with how effortlessly it transitions from day to night. She just added her favorite accessories, and it instantly elevated her outfits.\n<\/p>\n

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      \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Shauna Beni-Haynes<\/strong>, senior editor:<\/strong> \u201cThis is my go-to bag for daily daytime or nighttime outings, like when I’m out shopping or just hanging out around the city. I like that it’s not too big or too tiny, it’s just the right size and comfortable to carry around with me all day long.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest for Work
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      B\u00e9is The Work Tote<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Béis\"Béis<\/div>
      Credit: Revolve<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      View on Beistravel.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Material:<\/strong> Body embossed vegan leather, 100% coated poly nylon | Colors:<\/strong> 6 | Dimensions: <\/strong>11 x 14.25 x 6 inches\n<\/p>\n

      If you\u2019re commuting to work every day, you know a solid work tote is nonnegotiable, and The Work Tote by B\u00e9is 100% delivers. Our tester couldn\u2019t stop raving about how comfy, functional, and stylish it is (yes, all three!). It\u2019s designed with thoughtful features like wide shoulder straps, roomy side pockets, a luggage sleeve for travel days, and even a dedicated water bottle pocket and key leash. Inside, there\u2019s a padded laptop sleeve, pen holders, and a zip pocket to keep everything organized and in its place. It\u2019s the kind of bag that\u2019ll make your daily 9-to-5 commute feel a whole lot more put together.\n<\/p>\n

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      \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Shauna Beni-Haynes, senior editor:<\/strong> \u201cIt’s very functional, with wide shoulder straps that don’t dig into my shoulder, magnetic interior closures, key leash, water bottle pocket, and a sleeve you can use to pop it onto a suitcase. I also love the two side pockets and the back slip zip pocket, which makes it super easy for me to find my wallet and cell phone.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Leather
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      Quince Shopper Tote<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Quince\"Quince<\/div>
      Credit: Quince<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      $178 at Quince.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Material:<\/strong> High-quality Italian suede | Colors:<\/strong> 4 | Dimensions: <\/strong>10.2 x 13 x 6.5 inches\n<\/p>\n

      One look at this shopper tote and our tester immediately fell in love. Crafted from 100% Italian calf suede, this tote exudes a luxurious vibe without a high price tag. It\u2019s super roomy and features two slip pockets, several interior compartments, a laptop sleeve, and a top zipper. It holds a lot of items and won\u2019t look bulky or out of place when packed to the brim. We also appreciate that it’s well-structured and stands on its own.\n<\/p>\n

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      \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Lauren Pardee<\/strong>, senior editor: <\/strong>\u201cAlong with being practical, it’s gorgeous, too, thanks to the stunning high-quality Italian suede. It’s the pinnacle of practical and pretty. And I love that it’s not too structured, so it doesn’t feel super bulky on the train and subway.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Raffia
      \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

      S\u00e9zane Justine Tote<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Sézane\"Sézane<\/div>
      Credit: S\u00e9zane<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      View on Sezane.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Material:<\/strong> Handwoven raffia, cotton lining | Colors:<\/strong> 7 | Dimensions: <\/strong>9.8 x 7.1 x 20.1 inches\n<\/p>\n

      Every bag collection needs a classic woven tote, and the Justine Basket Bag from French-based brand, S\u00e9zane, might just be the one<\/em>. Handwoven from raffia with rich brown leather accents, it blends effortless style with everyday practicality. Our tester especially loved the soft cotton drawstring lining, which keeps all your must-haves (think wallet, lip gloss, keys, and phone) secure and tidy. With its chic clamshell silhouette and beachy vibe, it’s perfect for summer days, but the polished leather handles and shoulder strap make it just as ready for city street commutes. It\u2019s the kind of bag you\u2019ll reach for again and again, whether you’re heading to brunch or catching a train.<\/p>\n

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      \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Ally Hirschlag<\/strong>, associate editorial director<\/strong>: \u201cIt’s a functional, versatile raffia tote that walks seamlessly from the beach to a nice meal out. The two handles and attached inner drawstring make it the perfect take everywhere bag in the summer.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Canvas
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      L.L. Bean Mini Boat and Tote<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"L.L.\"L.L.<\/div>
      Credit: L.L. Bean<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      $28 at L.L.Bean<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Material:<\/strong> Cotton canvas | Colors:<\/strong> 10 | Dimensions: <\/strong>7 x 10 x 6 inches\n<\/p>\n

      L.L.Bean nails the \u201csmall but mighty\u201d vibe with their adorable Boat and Tote Mini. It\u2019s got all the iconic features of the original, just downsized for everyday grab-and-go ease. Made from heavyweight cotton canvas with double-stitched seams and a reinforced bottom, this little tote is super durable and sturdy. Our tester loved how comfy it is to carry in-hand or on her forearm, calling it her go-to for quick errands. Even better? It fits all the essentials, keys, phone, wallet, sunglasses, and makeup\u2014with room to spare.\n<\/p>\n

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      \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Lauren Pardee, senior editor: <\/strong>\u201cThis is my favorite bag for summer\u2014I use it as my everyday purse. Not only is it affordable, but it’s spacious, comes in the cutest colors, is timeless, and has the option for a monogram.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      What to Look for in Tote Bags <\/span><\/h2>\n
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      • Materials:<\/strong> Depending on the type of occasion you plan to use the tote bag for, the material should differ. “Each material has its own purpose and tells a different story. “Canvas materials are lighter and tend to be more affordable. They are also sustainable and can be washed easily. Leather materials are more elevated, have a timeless look, and tend to be more durable,” says Dawn. For everyday use, canvas or cotton may be a better option, as they are known to be durable and lightweight. If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish tote bag, consider opting for one made of leather. You can also look for durable nylon and polyester fabrics that may be more suitable for travel, the gym, or the beach.\u00a0<\/li>\n
      • Pockets and Organization: <\/strong>One of the best features of tote bags is their spaciousness, and many come with built-in pockets and compartments to help keep your essentials organized. If you prefer a tote with no compartments, you\u2019ll have the freedom to toss everything in quickly, but there\u2019s a downside: it can be harder to find what you need, fast. You might end up digging around for your keys or phone more often than you’d like. On the other hand, a tote with dedicated pockets makes it easy to keep items like your wallet, phone, and keys in their place, so you can grab and go without the search.<\/li>\n
      • Straps:<\/strong> “Thicker straps won’t dig into your shoulder as easily as a thinner strap. If you’re wearing your tote bag for long periods, stick with a thicker strap. If it’s a day out where you’re not carrying a lot in your bag, a thinner strap would work perfectly. Thinner straps are more stylish, while thicker straps have a more casual professional look,” adds Dawn.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        How We Tested Tote Bags\u00a0 <\/span><\/h2>\n

        We believe in wearing the tote bags we recommend, just like you would, so we prioritize testing them in real-life settings. For this story, we tapped Byrdie editors to test their favorite tote bags.<\/p>\n

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        • Methodology:<\/strong> We tested tote bags in real-life settings by carrying them with us throughout our daily routines. (Some editors have been carrying their tote bags for over a year.)<\/li>\n
        • Factors Considered: <\/strong>Style, comfort, design, material, durability, and features.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
          \n
          FAQ<\/div>\n
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            What\u2019s the best size for a tote bag?<\/span><\/div>\n
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            The choice is yours and ultimately depends on lifestyle. “If you tend to carry around a lot, use it for travel, or use it as a diaper bag, you’ll need a bigger tote. If you’re just carrying around essentials, you’ll need a smaller one,” says Dawn.<\/p>\n

            For work or school, we recommend going for a larger, roomier tote that can comfortably fit a laptop, notebooks, chargers, and other essentials. For everyday errands or shopping, a smaller tote that\u2019s lightweight and easy to carry, may be a better fit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

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            What\u2019s the best way to store a tote bag?<\/span><\/div>\n
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            Storing your tote bag properly can help preserve its shape, fabric, and structure. We recommend placing it in a cool, dark space away from direct sunlight, either in the dust bag it came with or a pillowcase, to keep it safe and protected. You can also fill it with tissue paper or old towels to help it maintain its shape.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

            Meet Our Expert <\/span><\/h2>\n

            Byrdie interviewed the following expert for this story:\n<\/p>\n

              \n
            • Samantha Dawn is a personal stylist and style coach based in New York City, who helps high level female leaders and\u00a0CEOs find their next level personal style so they can own who they are in their next era.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Why Trust Byrdie <\/span><\/h2>\n

              Shauna Beni-Haynes is a senior editor at Byrdie, with a great love for stylish accessories and tote bags. She tests dozens of bags throughout the year and works to find the best versatile, comfy, and chic designs for readers. She also works with the Research and Testing team to select products for testing, review insights, and assign stories to writers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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              Edited by<\/span>
              \nEmily Cieslak\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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              Read more:<\/div>\n
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              • What to Buy<\/span><\/li>\n
              • Shopping<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

                Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/best-tote-bags-11787287<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. The 5 Best Tote Bags That Take Byrdie Editors From Summer to Fall Whether you’re going back to school or back to the office, these tote bags check off all your needs. By Shauna Beni-Haynes Shauna Beni-Haynes […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":949484,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-949483","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/949483","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=949483"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/949483\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/949484"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=949483"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=949483"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=949483"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}