Fall's Chicest and Most Practical Totes, From $28 to $4900
With fall comes lots of layering—and, inevitably, taking the layers off when the weather isn't as chilly as you expected. That, my friends, is where a tote bag comes in handy to stash knits, scarves, an extra pair of shoes—you name it. But when it actually does get cold, you'll also need the extra room to throw in some mittens, beanies, and lip balms to combat chilly winds. In any case, a roomy tote bag is basically a must-have for the cold season ahead.
Below, I rounded up 31 totes in all sorts of shapes and price points, from wallet-friendly finds to true investment pieces. Let's be real, if you currently have a pile of untouched tote bags you somehow got for free, why not buy one you'll actually wear time and again? I threw some trends in the mix like red hues (the color is really having a moment!), suede fabrics, quilted textures, and oversize shoppers. Fingers crossed you find a chic tote or two that speak to you. Though, I get the feeling that it's a done deal.
The Le Pliage Longchamp bags remain a classic for a reason. I'm very partial to this warm brown color and the embroidered logo on this style.
Reformation released its first bags this year, and this Vittoria silhouette is both roomy and stylish with its bow strap and asymmetrical shape.
Did your jaw just drop? Mine did when I saw this rich chocolate style with a silver clasp.
Cuyana's popular tote has multiple straps, so you can wear it at different lengths, and the buttery-soft Italian leather will stand the test of time.
A graphic print is super striking; plus, your wallet will be all about the price of this one.
The gold hardware, woven texture, and multiway strap make this Bottega Veneta bag a standout.
A tote that doubles as a pillow is always a good idea. But joking aside, you'll love how much you can fit into this shopper.
An effortless slouchy bag in a pretty chocolate tone will be your new fall go-to.
Naghedi's bags are woven with durable, water-resistant fabric, so you're really getting your money's worth. The check design of this is perfect for fall.
A suede tote is timeless, and you can adjust the length of the strap with a convenient buckle.
A longer shoulder strap ensures this fits snugly in the crook of your arm.
Still into this whole red trend. Accessorize with the hue in the form of this puffy quilted bag with secure zipper pockets to keep everything organized.
For an everyday tote, look no further than this Coach one with the signature tassel.
This tote has lined interior, magnetic closure, chic side ties, and a contrasting handle.
Obsessed with a tote that looks expensive without actually being expensive.
Opt for a patchwork situation to make your 'fit a '70s-inspired moment.
The texture is unreal. It also has buckles on the side to help keep the structure, or you can loosen them if you have to cram more in your bag.
Baggu has some of the most practical totes in the game, including this cute travel one.
If you're looking for a sophisticated tote with a deeper shape, this tan one is calling your name.
You've heard of Aritzia's Super Puff jackets, but it also has Super Puff totes. They're made with a water-repellent and wind-resistant ripstop fabric, so they'll hold up against any fall and winter elements.
PSA: The quilted tote that you're seeing everywhere is also in this gorgeous cobalt shade.
Lauren Adhav is a freelance fashion editor based in Los Angeles. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she always wanted to work at a fashion magazine. After finally getting an internship at Town & Country in 2015, she moved to New York City and continued to get her footing in the industry with stints at Cosmopolitan, W magazine, Harper's Bazaar, and Moda Operandi. In 2017, she returned to Cosmo full time, starting off as the beauty and fashion editorial assistant and working her way to fashion editor. She contributed to both the website and print issues, pitching new ideas, forecasting trends, covering red carpet events, and informing the overall coverage and brand voice. After five years in NYC, she moved to the West Coast for the sunshine and the change of pace. As a freelance fashion editor, she still contributes to Cosmo and now Who What Wear. She's always trying to get ahead of the next big trend before it goes mainstream and loves discovering fashion brands with a unique point of view (Chopova Lowena, Sandy Liang, and Bode being some of her current favorites). She also spends an unhealthy amount of time online shopping for the perfect piece, and now that she's in L.A., she's rediscovering her soft spot for malls. On the weekends, you can find her walking around the Silver Lake Reservoir, trying to catch up on her tan at Venice Beach, and probably ordering a Chinese chicken salad at Joan's on Third.
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