I'm a 9-5pm working woman. I'm also a commuter. I have to travel to work and for me that often means that I am carrying things like my trusty travel mug, a healthy lunch and on some days, my camera. It's hard not to feel like I'm two-timing my reliable cream-coloured Longchamp Le Pliage bag by looking at these two-tone tote bags, but the fact of the matter is that after 3 busy years, it is showing its age.
I'm looking for something with the same qualities of my Le Pliage bag - sturdy, reliable, seemingly indestructible and ideally, it should have the classic tote bag shape, with a modern feel. Oh yeah, it's also summer time so something in a light fabric or color would be perfect. Picky? Every good career woman knows what she wants. Here are some options that I've pulled together that fit my criteria.
For Bus-Riding in Style - Madewell Coated Base Utility Tote, $
The vintage preppy feel to this canvas tote is what initially caught my attention. The neutral on neutral mix of cream color with the white bottom and camel coloured leather handles brings a level of style sophistication that confirms that it is indeed a fashion bag, and not one that you ripped off of prep school student on the bus. It's understandable to be cautious about carrying a white bag, but the coated bottom makes me feel reassured about putting it down on the empty seat next to me on the subway.
Main Street to High Street, Jessica Jensen High Street Shopper, $$
When it comes to bags, you can never go wrong on two things: black, and a tote. Thus, a black tote - or in this case, Midnight Blue - is an easy choice. It's the subtle things that make this tote special in my mind - the Italian leather, the color and slim style of the straps, and the gunmetal hardware. This is a tote bag that has style with ease.
Ultimate Commuter Style - FENDI multi textured tote, $$$
The ultimate in casual luxury, how I dream of carrying this Fendi tote bag to and from work! The discreet, yet intentionally noticeable two-tone white stripes, the dark leather bottom, and the camel color handles command a noticeable presence, just like the woman carrying it.
While I don't think that you should spend your entire paycheck on a new tote bag, I do think that you get what you pay for when it comes to bags. Many of the options under $100 will surely be stylish in the moment, but they are not likely to last in terms of durability. Ensure the size fits the contents of your average workday or you'll end up carrying your lunch around in a mini Lululemon shopping bag anyway. Of course, it's always great to find a bag that can be used in your regular life too like when you're grocery shopping. With these shopping tips in mind, you're bound to find a tote bag that lives up to your specific career woman lifestyle needs.
