Elevated canvas tote bags you can take to work or on holiday

No flimsy cloth tote bags here. These upgraded canvas bags are equal parts functional, sturdy and versatile

By Aaron Kok - 21 Sep 2023

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The summer often calls for a bag that's lighter, roomier and more laidback so that even if you're going to the boardwalk or the boardroom, you've got plenty of space for your daily essentials – be it beach towels or your laptop. Enter the canvas bag.

Lighter than an all-leather sac, yet just as durable and versatile, the elevated canvas bag is an example of the beauty that comes from form meeting function. It's the perfect bag to schlep everything in, and go. It has the ability to get dressed up or dressed down. It'll take you from yoga mat to business class check-in seamlessly.

We found ten of our favourite elevated canvas totes ahead for every budget and size needed.

Horizontal canvas Cabas with calfskin trim, $3,550, Celine

Credit: Celine

1/10

If a vintage-inspired look is what you're after, channel it effortlessly with this pick. The combination French's house's signature Triomphe pattern and tan calfskin trimmings imbues this with a '70s-esque vibe.

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T tote bag in jacquard and calfskin, $2,400, Loewe

Credit: Loewe

2/10

It's as fuss-free as it gets with this anagram-covered tote bag. A roomy compartment lets you throw everything you need in – your documents, a book, a cardigan...you name it.

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Mini Frances bag, $3,450, Burberry

Credit: Burberry

3/10

Where most totes pride themselves on space, this Mini Frances goes in the opposite direction. Sure it's tinier than most totes, but it's an elegant everyday bag.

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Rive Gauche shopping bag in canvas, $3,100, Saint Laurent

Credit: Saint Laurent

4/10

Buck the squarish shape that most totes come in for one that resembles a flower basket.

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Canvas carryall 03, $129, Beyond The Vines

Credit: Beyond The Vines

5/10

It may look plain on the outside, but the Carryall 03 from local label Beyond The Vines meets the mark on practicality with it's 101 compartments, a water bottle slot and a sturdy build.

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Contrast trim tote bag, $109, Charles & Keith

Credit: Charles & Keith

6/10

You may have seen your fair share of CBD citizens toting the viral Shalia tote bag from Charles & Keith, so if you want a less conspicuous option, try this modernist design instead.

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Small Book Tote, $4,700, Dior

Credit: Dior

7/10

You can't think of summer without thinking about lush floral prints, and this is where Dior's newest addition to their much-adored Book Tote line checks the box.

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S Travel Bag in cloud blue canvas, $705, Longchamp x Toiletpaper

Credit: Longchamp

8/10

For something a little bit more whimsical, look to the Longchamp x Toiletpaper collab for whacky prints on the French brand's best-selling and sturdy-as-heck tote bags.

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Checked shopper, US$120 (S$161), COS

Credit: COS

9/10

After their viral pillow bags, COS is poised to have another hit bag on their hands with their new series of canvas shopper totes. Move quick to get your hands on one.

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Small Symbole embroidered fabric handbag, $4,900, Prada

Credit: Prada

10/10

Just dressy enough for the office, just relaxed enough for your summer vacation.

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