I can understand why one might own a plain, somewhat boring (sorry) black leather tote bag. It's good for work, won't show signs of dirtiness, and goes with everything. But I'm sorry, at least in the summertime, they belong in a storage bin. When the sun comes out, a more fun, playful tote deserves some time in the spotlight, and stylish New Yorkers know it. Every outfit warrants a colorful market tote, decorated with stripes, gingham, or other, equally kitschy prints. They can be made of leather, canvas, or straw—it doesn't really matter—as long as it's not the same blasé black tote you carry in the dead of winter.
From The Row to COS, fashion's coolest brands are in agreement, sidelining their standard selection of classic tote bags in order to prioritize styles that release serotonin. Rather than dial down your summer outfits, their latest releases will take them to entirely new levels, whether you're going to the beach or the office. For added excitement, add an equally vibrant silk scarf or bag charm to their straps. Trust me, you won't regret it.
To help transition your tote collection from winter to summer, I went ahead and curated a list of the best colorful market totes on the market right now, including options from Staud, Tory Burch, Loewe, and more brands that are known for leaning into summer's unserious side. Ready, set, shop.
How to style colorful market totes
What you'll need: Barn jacket + Cuffed jeans + Sneakers + Green market tote
What you'll need: Striped Bikini + Duster cardigan + Animal-print pants + Striped market tote
What you'll need: White minidress + Cord sandals + Striped market tote
What you'll need: Pink sweater + Striped market tote
What you'll need: Floral top + Vintage jeans + Strappy sandals + Green market tote
Shop colorful market totes
I've had my eye on this COS tote all spring. I love that the colors are still versatile and muted, without being black or gray.
This bag is going to sell out in no time. Trust me.
If you're a fan of wearing striped PJ pants in the summer, you'll love this bag.
Gingham is experiencing a huge spike right now.
Sale alert!
The pop of red is extra enticing.
A banana-cream knotted tote? Say less.
The long strap only adds to this fun bag's appeal.
Orange you glad you clicked on this article?
Supersized florals are one of my all-time favorite summer trends.
This one is leather, so it's super durable, without being bland like other leather totes.
I bet you we'll see Jennifer Lawrence carrying this bag come July.
The perfect beach bag—found.
The colors on this are so fun.
An XL Puzzle bag is basically my dream come true.
Just add vintage jeans and a crisp white tee.
Fashion girls everywhere are lining up to buy a Dragon Diffusion woven tote.
Consider my black tote in storage.
This color might seem intimidating, but with the right styling, it'll soon replace all your neutral bags.
Yes, navy and black go together. Not clashing is so 2024.
This more literal take on the "market tote" by Tory Burch is a need not a want.
I want to gift this bag to all my closest friends this summer, and no one can stop me.
Summer is for Missoni chevron prints—period.
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