Oversized totes never had the best of reputations. They compete for space during an already-packed commute, require their own seat at the dinner table, and – we say this literally, are an extra weight on the shoulders. Not to mention how, when it comes time to find an item of importance, they can mysteriously convert into a black hole where all wallets and keys go to vanish. What’s left to thrive are age-old faded receipts and “in case of emergency” paper napkins you once thought were sensible to keep. It’s no wonder micro bags gained overwhelming favour amongst the fashion crowd; they’re compact, chic and limit you to mere essentials.
However, some may argue that oversized tote bags are still essential for their daily activities. They come in handy when you need to lug around things for work or even for that much-needed weekend staycation you’ve got planned with your beau.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite oversized bags to own right now.
Minimalism makes a maximum impact with this flat shopper tote bag from Jil Sander. Its plain beige canvas is punctuated with a black logo towards the front and has a spacious interior with compartments to help organise belongings.
The Row might brand this as a clutch, but this bag is definitely anything but. The Row sticks to simple, understated designs that really allow the level of craftsmanship to shine through. Made in Italy from shell, this slouchy ‘Bourse XL’ clutch has a contrasting ivory drawstring pouch to keep your essentials secured. The beige and ivory colorway will go with just about anything.
Officially branded the tote bag of the season, you’ll find that this bag will be no stranger to any fashion influencer you follow. This tote bag with a soft, deconstructed design is made of raffia, a material of natural origin imbued with a summery mood. We can see this carrying everything from your summer holiday essentials, to office documents.
If you like your bags with a bit more structure and some architectural design elements, the large Charcoal Gray Rock Matte Handbag from Bao Bao Issey Miyake is great option. Not only is it polished and elegant, there’s plenty of room to accommodate your belongings.
We’re pretty sure that the highly coveted Dior Book Tote doesn’t require much introduction from us. As seen on local celebs like Jeanette Aw to international A-listers like Rihanna, this bag has probably earned its resident spot on the list of top bags to be spotted dead in.
This field tote bag from Coach is made from pebble leather and features lightweight webbing strap to wear on the shoulder or crossbody, as well as an interior zip pocket to hold smaller items for extra utility. No more digging around for your essentials, we say.
This local brand needs no introduction. If you’re looking for something that’s more affordable, enter Beyond The Vines’ iconic Canvas Carryall 03. With a suite of colours to choose from, this new structured bag has started to become a well-loved classic for many for good reason. It comes with short handles and a long adjustable strap, and even an inner pocket for keys or your phone. Chuck all your essentials, and more, into this trusty carryall, and you’re good to go.
If you’re on the hunt for a chic and sleek piece that you can wear for any season, then this stunning all-black piece by Louis Vuitton is one worth considering. The Lockme Tote PM is a stylish and functional must-have that boasts a tonal, matte-finish and is big enough to carry your paperwork, your laptop and other daily essentials. What’s more, there are different ways of carrying the bag — be it by the top handles or worn over the shoulder on its detachable strap.
Stand Studio’s ‘Assante’ tote is as playful as it is practical – the puffy proportions offer plenty of space for your laptop and a few essentials. It’s quilted from glossy faux leather and has soft, padded handles.
Demonstrating its artisanal expertise, Bottega Veneta continues to capture the eyes and hearts of fashion mavens with the Arco Tote Bag. Reflecting the House’s timeless sophistication, this exquisite twin top-handle profile is instantly recognisable thanks to the signature Intreccio weave design, updated here in Maxi technique.
The ultimate XXL bag for minimalists, this structured square-shaped tote may look like a chore to haul considering its extra-large size, but it’s surprisingly lightweight due to the fact that it was intentionally unlined. We’re pairing ours with oversized tailored trousers and a lightweight knit tank top.