We Found The 22 Best Tote Bags For Every Occasion

Somewhere between the functional mom bag and fashionable mini bag lies a classic style that effortlessly delivers on both fronts: the tote. Defined by two over-the-shoulder handles and a deep rectangular structure crafted from durable materials, totes have become much more than utilitarian carryalls. Today, the bags are powerful accessories representing mindful sustainability and style-savvy. (Speaking of style there's even an Instagram account dedicated to the revival of L.L. Bean's iconic Boat and Tote bags.) That's why we've rounded up the best tote bags designed to suit you effortlessly for work, travel, school, and everything in between.

From L.L.Bean's OG styles to Baggu's packable ripstop-nylon creations, the totes are worth adding to your bag rotations. There's a color, print, fabric, and size for everyone. Find the one that matches your style. Each of our picks is approved for all occasions — aka ready to carry you and your stuff from crowded work commutes to grocery runs, gym trips, all-day shopping excursions, and nights out on the town. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag

Stormy weather is no match for your commute or an activity-packed weekend trip with this bag. Lululemon's trusty lightweight tote is created from water-repellent material, so there's no fear of spills or splashes. Plus, it features adjustable side details for you to customize the look. Functional and cute.

Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag 18L, $, available at Lululemon

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

You might recognize Mansur Gavriel by its iconic bucket bags. However, the brand also has a list of stylish handbags like the Everyday Soft Tote for you to carry around your belongings fashionably. 

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote, $, available at Mansur Gavriel

Girlfriend Collective Provence Please Recycle Tote Bag

This recyclable tote was created for organization lovers. You can store all your little knick-knacks with the five pockets of various sizes.

Free People Cloud Commuter Tote

Meet your beloved quilted puffer coat in its slouchy tote form. It has a zippered interior with a padded laptop sleeve, so your daily essentials will be safe and cushy.

Free People Cloud Commuter Tote, $, available at Free People

Rebecca Minkoff Suede Tote

If you're an avid Rebecca Minkoff fan, you'll notice the signature buckle clasp and tassel. Unlike many totes, it also features a magnetic snap closure. No need to zip your bag (or let it all hang open) when you're on the go.

& Other Stories Crochet Tote Bag

We're ready to style this lilac carryall to weekend brunches and playful date nights for many seasons to come.

& Other Stories Crochet Tote Bag, $, available at & Other Stories

Urban Outfitters Take Your Vitamins Tote Bag

Let the slogan on this classic cotton-canvas style serve as a cheerful reminder for you (and the rest of the world).

Urban Outfitters Take Your Vitamins Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Slouchy Tote

This bright neon number is set to be a statement bag star — pair it with everything from your favorite leather jackets to dresses and carry it everywhere from the office to a park picnic.

By Anthropologie Slouchy Tote, $, available at Anthropologie

Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag

Everlane's elevated version of the tote bag is crafted from buttery-smooth Italian leather that radiates effortless polish. The roomy shape makes it perfect for work, school, or as a daily tote.

Everlane The Italian Leather Studio Bag, $, available at Everlane

Etsy Granny Crochet Tote

Exude covetable granny style with this handmade crochet bag.

KNITANDCROCHETWORLD Granny Crochet Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy

Mango Leather Shopper Bag

Envision a chic businesswoman with this suede tote. The chain double handle is an elevated touch to the usual canvas versions.

WorldLyda Canvas Crossbody Tote

This delightfully rainbow-striped and durable canvas style wields a bonus crossbody strap for extra secure toting.

Worldlyda Canvas Crossbody Tote, $, available at Amazon

H&M Straw Bag

Straw bags don't always have to be the stereotypical brown hue. This playful one has rainbow sherbet vibes, but don't let the sweet look fool you. At 15 inches tall, there's enough room to stuff plenty of beach supplies.

H&M Straw Bag, $, available at H&M

L.L.Bean Hunter's Open-Top Tote Bag

For a more modern take on the OG tote, try L.L.Bean's sturdy polyester version in a statement camo print — this timeless workhouse carryall is available in three size tiers, suits just about any style, and holds a boatload of stuff.

L.L. Bean Hunter's Tote Bag, Open-Top, $, available at L.L. Bean

Baggu Standard Baggu

It's tough to pick just one of Baggu's classic reusable bags to include in our tote hit list — but this multi-metallic style ranks high as a must-have, disco-vibe essential.

Baggu Standard Baggu, $, available at Baggu

Madewell The Medium Transport Tote

One tote that will never fail you: Madewell's Transport Tote. It's a cult favorite with 4.4 stars and over 1,000 reviews.

Madewell The Medium Transport Tote, $, available at Madewell

Etsy LinenFox Large Tote Bag

We love the relaxed, elegant vibe and all-encompassing size of this handmade tote crafted from 100% organic Baltic linen.

Linenfox Large Linen Tote Bag, $, available at Etsy

Rothy's The Essential Tote

The comfy-chic shoe brand's sustainable handbag launch brought us this sleek stripe tote crafted from 100% recycled marine plastic materials.

Rothy's The Essential Tote, $, available at Rothy's

Etsy Thank You Shopping Bag Tote

Give a cheeky nod to New York's plastic bag ban with this takeout-style tote crafted from a durable, double-layer canvas.

ChubbyMishoStore Thank You T-Shirt Reusable Shopping Bag, $, available at Etsy

Tarte Sugar Rush Holographic Tote

Plastic bags may be out, but holographic totes made from non-toxic, luminous-jelly materials aren't.

Sugar Rush Holographic Tote Bag, $, available at Tarte

J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote In Leather

Invest in this timeless leather tote bag and be amazed at how many years go by using it. It'll be your new staple for weekend trips and everything in between.

Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag

Not all totes are made from cotton canvas materials — peep this corduroy style that looks like a throwback from our grade-school days.

Gophra Corduroy Tote Bag, $, available at Amazon

Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag

Channel your best summer style with this warm-weather essential tote crafted from woven jute braided with fabric fragments.

Sondra Roberts Wove EW Tote Bag, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

Urban Outfitters Tie-Dye Washed Canvas Tote

Finally, a tie-dye tote (crafted from durable cotton canvas) to complete your head-to-toe tie-dye 'fits in 2020.

Urban Outfitters Washed Canvas Tote Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote

We said EVERY occasion...

Opening Ceremony Super Large Tote, $, available at Opening Ceremony

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These Colorful Baubles Are Affordable, Heirloom-Quality, & Designed To Be Worn Every Day

Timeless jewelry you can reach for time and time again doesn’t have to be stuffy — or expensive. Rebekah Price‘s luxury fashion line merges the brilliance of Swarovski crystals with heirloom designs that you can pass down through generations. There are radiant, pastel-hued earrings, bracelets, and necklaces that make a statement and can still be worn every day. The best part is that the stunning gems are also affordable, with select items costing as low as $45. 

Don’t let the price fool you, as each piece is handcrafted in Italy. Plus, the brand has plenty of options in both silver and gold. (As a silver-wearer, I have trouble finding brands that are not solely focused on gold pieces.) There are even options in ever-trendy rose gold. It doesn’t stop there: Rebekah Price’s latest collection brings the subtle pop of color that we need to brighten our day and our outfits. Ahead, peruse through the bountiful items the brand offers and dwell in all the luscious drop earrings and studs, glam necklaces, and delicate bracelets. 

Earrings

Add that whimsical touch to your outfit with a pair of earrings. Whether it’s colorful rainbows hoops or floral pearl drops that embody cosmopolitan grandma chic, earrings are one of the easiest kinds of jewelry to dress up or down; they’ll look equally good with a chic button-up and jeans as with a formal dress.

Bracelets

Dainty bracelets are a classic, and these are elevated with cheeky details that keep them from feeling too simple. From shimmery details to (literally) eye-catching charms, you can wear just one or create a little stack.

Necklaces

For really jaw-dropping pieces, however, consider buying one of the brand’s necklaces. You’ll discover crystal chokers and shining pendants that deserve a pedestal of their own. Some more extravagant items are investment pieces, with select ones costing around $480.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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5 Coat Trends That Will Up Your Fall 2022 Outerwear

It’s just about that time of year once again –– we’re swapping out linen dresses for fall’s biggest trends, planning New Year’s Eve getaways (even if we just got back in town), and curating the perfect shopping list for fashion’s favorite time of year. Admittedly, colder temperatures and greyer days aren’t exactly known for sparking excitement per se, but there never fails to be plenty to look forward to in terms of style –– and the one item that’s guaranteed to top your list? A stylish new coat.

This year, for coat trends, we’re taking a nod from the runways of Chloé and Khaite for newness in bomber jackets and all-leather looks, Prada for puffer jackets reimagined in cozy knits, and Etro for the latest in shearling. Plus, nixing the idea that neutrals must rule your winter wardrobe — welcome colorblocked pieces and less traditional hues like icy lavender, steel blue, and winter white for a refresh on your rotation. In terms of aesthetics, whether you’re looking to lean into punk or test out a retro-inspired ski look, there’s plenty to play with this season.

Below, discover the five coat trends that are sure to heat up your outerwear rotation for the colder months ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Colorblocked Coats

Not ready to commit to a head-to-hoe bright hue or all-over print? Then the color-block trend is for you. Keep it simple with blocked neutrals or dare to try a style with an array of shades for a patchwork-feeling look that adheres to fashion’s affinity for nostalgia. 

Bomber Jackets

If you can only try one outerwear trend this season, look no further. The bomber jacket was a runway favorite and is an ideal trans-seasonal staple. Plus, with the right material like leather or teddy, it can be just as warm as it is stylish.

Shearling Reimagined

Shearling has been a cult favorite for the past winter or two, but, this year, we’ve seen exciting updates in the market that are breathing new life back into this trend (that is also available in faux versions). Nix the all-over shearling styles for a carefully trimmed option that feels fresh and elevated

Leather Trench Coats

Channeling the edgier energy of the season, the longline leather trench is a chic addition to anyone’s arsenal. Keep it classic with a butter-leather black option or test out a trend-forward croc print in an alternate colorway for a fashion girl-approved twist. 

Knit Puffer Jacket

The puffer jacket went from practical to statement this season This year, the newest update to the style is the knit puffer. The cozy fabrication feels fresh yet aligned as a natural evolution to the cold-weather style.

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The Good, The Bad & The Cringe: 4 R29 Editors Revisit The Denim Trends Of Their Youth

It’s been said that the life cycle of a fashion trend lasts about 20 years, beginning with its introduction, a rise to its peak, and then an eventual decline into obsolescence until it, one day, makes its way back into the spotlight. So, it should come as no surprise that a number of Y2K-era fashion trends have had a renaissance in recent years, with plenty of nostalgic (and sometimes polarizing) denim cuts and silhouettes. From the baggy jeans of the late ’90s to the low-slung, skin-tight denim of the early aughts, it’s nearly impossible to scroll through our social feeds or walk down the street without spotting these trends everywhere.

Considering that many of us were coming of age during this era, the influence these trends have had on our personal style is undeniable — regardless of whether we loved them or hated them at the time. In partnership with H&M, we’ve asked four Refinery29 editors to revisit the most notable denim trends of their youth that they’re particularly excited to see make a comeback. Ahead, they reminisce about the good, the bad, and the cringe, and share why they’re so quick to embrace their 2022 revival.

Baggy Low-Rise Jeans

“From the ages of 12 to 18, in peak early 2000s, I was rarely allowed to wear jeans. Going to a private, all-girls Catholic school meant there were quite a few stipulations on what you could and could not do, and wearing jeans was a “could not” unless it was a Friday (and you paid $4 to “charity”), a community service day, or, most importantly, an off-campus mixer with boys. In true pubescent, trying-to-fit-in fashion, I begged my mom for as many tight, low-rise jeans — the trending denim silhouette at the time — as I could fit in my dresser. But at the same time, if I wasn’t in school or wearing the tightest hip-hugging, butt-plumping denim I could get my hands on, I was a comfort queen who lived in my baggy sweatpants — something that would greatly influence my personal style later in life.”

“Fast forward 20 years, now a mom to a two-year-old, you couldn’t pay me to walk around in tight, thigh-hugging jeans, but my old affinity for sweatpants has carried over into how I wear my jeans today. I’m embracing the return of the ‘90s baggy low-rise silhouette, despite the fact I didn’t know anyone who wore anything close to that style in my youth. I would describe my current style as sporty yet polished, and I love how the baggy, low-slung fit has “jean-ified” sweatpants into something chicer without compromising comfort. For daytime, I’ll typically pair them with a simple white tee, an oversized blazer, and sneakers, a look that easily transitions to nighttime with a quick switch to stilettos and the addition of a clutch.”

— Troi Jackson-Conn, Senior Creative, Experiential 

Baggy High-Rise Jeans

“What do Angela Moore (Boy Meets World), Ashley Banks (The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air), Maxine Shaw (Living Single), and Denise Huxtable (The C*sby Show, A Different World) all have in common? They’re Black women with iconic style who all rocked a baggy high-waisted pant — and rocked it well. These jeans were a ’90s denim staple, and I, for one, am thrilled that they’ve made a return so I can finally have a chance to participate. Though I admired them through the TV screen, my 12 years of Catholic school uniforms didn’t allow for much sartorial creativity. In many ways, I feel like I’m only now, as an adult, developing my personal style, and those early days of watching my favorite Black girls on TV are proving to have a huge impact.

“Something about the slouchy fit of high-waisted baggy jeans makes a girl look and feel so cool, no matter how you style them. Personally, I like to pair mine with a teeny crop top and oversized button-up shirt, a tucked-in baggy tee cinched at the waist with a belt, or even with heels and a nice blouse.”

— Christa Eduafo, Social Content Stragetist

Low-Rise Flares

“When I first heard whispers that a low-rise jean resurgence was brewing back in 2018, I shuddered in fear, immediately haunted by images of my former eighth-grade self pairing the tightest low-rise flares I could find with my secret collection of bedazzled, printed thongs. Yes, I participated in the whale tail trend at age 13 (you know, whenever my parents or teachers weren’t around) — and yes, it was super cringe. I clutched my high-rise denim and hoped that, even though we were fast approaching the 20-year mark of when low-rise jeans first emerged (and thus indicating their inevitable return), they would remain in 2002.

“Fast forward to 2022, and the Y2K revival now has fashion in a chokehold, with everyone from celebrities to regular folks embracing the return of the low-rise silhouette. I don’t personally participate in all the trends I write about, but low-rise jeans have started to grow on me…and I can’t really explain why. Have my social feeds subconsciously influenced me? Perhaps, or maybe it’s that the more popular the trend gets, the more I want to wear it ironically and have some fun, pairing it with other gaudy trends of the Y2K era, like a bedazzled baby tee, or chic basics, like an open oversized button-down or a blazer. Either way, after years of wearing solely high-rise everything, from my denim to my bikinis, I think I’m ready for my lower midriff to spend some time in the sun — though I think I’ll keep my G-string hidden this time around.”

— Jenna Igneri, Fashion Editor, Branded Content

Boyfriend Jeans

“A trend I always, always wanted to wear growing up but never did was the early aughts boyfriend jean. Neither high-waisted nor ultra low-rise, it had that perfect in-between waistline, and I loved that it was more relaxed than the skinny jean, chicer than a flare, and could be paired with pretty much any style of footwear. Still, I couldn’t bring myself to wear them. Sported only by those I perceived as “cool girls,” I just felt like it wasn’t a style I could confidently wear — in my mind, I didn’t have the right body type for them (the ’00s were a weird time for body image, y’all!).

“Needless to say, the times have changed, and now I can’t imagine wearing any other style of jeans. Ever versatile, I’ll pair them with sneakers and a blazer for a casual work ensemble or with a kitten heel and a cute top for dinner with friends. And while I follow the latest in fashion and I’m always game for trying out the latest trends, I appreciate that the boyfriend jean is a more timeless denim fit, not something I’ll be tossing after one season. We’re all thinking more about how we can be more sustainable when it comes to our closets, and boyfriend jeans are absolutely a style that’ll be a staple in mine for years to come.”

— Sara Tan, Beauty Director

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17 Comfy, Cozy Knit Dresses Perfect For Sweater Weather

Once summer comes to an end, our roundup of best fall dresses instantly becomes a reader favorite. And we get it: We're all prepping for cool-weather 'fits, but we don't want to leave behind all our effortless dresses. One of our favorite ways to bring this often-summery style into fall is with seasonal materials. This time, we're honing in on one of autumn's most beloved fabrics: knits. Not just any kind of knit, either. We've scanned the internet to find the best fall knit dresses from stretchy silhouettes to ribbed designs, cozy cable knit styles, and loose sweater dress options. 

Unlike summer's airy dresses, these warmer variations are not only less prone to wrinkles and creases, but they'll also keep you warm when the temperature drops. Brisk days and cool nights? No worries, we've discovered an assortment of minis, midis, and maxi lengths for your perusing. You can opt for a chic one-and-done long-sleeve knit mini by STAUD — it gives off the illusion of a sweater vest over a white button-down. There's even a Clueless-inspired yellow plaid mini from Anthropologie that movie fans and Y2K enthusiasts will adore. (Can you tell we're thrilled to curate new fall wardrobes?) Ahead, browse the 17 best fall knit dresses you didn't know you needed, and let us know what your favorites are. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Zara Gold Button Knit Dress, $, available at Zara

FP Beach | Free People Riding Waves Sweater Midi, $, available at Free People

H&M Cable-Knit Dress, $, available at H&M

Tanya Taylor Charlie Dress, $, available at Tanya Taylor

Maeve Knit Twofer Mini Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

Reformation Alden Knit Dress, $, available at Reformation

Eloquii Knitted Rib Maxi Dress With Belt, $, available at Eloquii

Good American Rib Knit Tie Waist Midi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom

Quince Tencel Rib Knit Sleeveless Dress, $, available at Quince

Toteme Espera Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter

& Other Stories Turtleneck Knit Mini Dress, $, available at & Other Stories

Wednesday's Girl Midi Sweater Dress In Chunky Knit, $, available at ASOS

Abercrombie & Fitch Long-Sleeve Keyhole Knit Midi Dress, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Everlane The Riviera Dress, $, available at Everlane

LPA Floyd Sweater Dress, $, available at Revolve

Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Lace-Up Sweater Dress, $, available at Ralph Lauren

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