Style Selects: Mini Tote Bag
A quintessential bag that delivers convenience and style all in one. The mini tote bag goes from a hands-free crossbody to a top handle in an instant. One that will carry all your needs between running errands, carpools, and coffee meetings, to dining out. I’m sharing my style selects for this fall 2021 season because it’s the bag I’m wearing the most and is the most in-demand bag shape/size request from my clients. Scroll down to review a range of high-low price points covering new and known brands that I believe in.
Disclosure: Some of these items are affiliate links and I earn a small commission if you chose to purchase through the links.
Naghedi
St. Barth’s Mini Tote
If you’ve seen me lately, this is what I’m toting. I love the shape of this classic tote but shrunken down. The handwoven neoprene material is versatile and durable, but sleek enough to unclip the strap and wear as a small accessory out to dinner. This will not disappoint. Bonus, it comes with an extra internal pouch to pop out and use as a clutch.
Shown in Onyx Black | $210 at tnuck.com
Staud
MINI SHIRLEY LEATHER BAG
The answer to top off your winter white ensembles. A year-round off-white leather tote with a functional crossbody and handles to grab and go in an instant. Straps are adjustable for you to secure your preferred fit.
Show in Cream | $250 at staud.clothing
Gucci
Horsebit 1955 mini leather-trimmed printed coated-canvas tote
For the logo lovers who want to upgrade a modern mini tote with a heritage aesthetic. The eternal style is destined to be relevant for decades to come. Detachable crossbody strap included for hands-free fun and function.
Shown in Beige | $1,980 at netaporter.com
Loewe
multicolor woven basket tote bag
The Spanish leather maestros lead the way in another season full of quality, charismatic, and functional bags that will last a lifetime. This standout from Loewe is a favorite for its color blocking in neutral tones - shutting down trends for wardrobe transcendence. Though patchwork is at the forefront of trends this fall 2021 season, this tonal palette does not go out of style.
Shown in Tan/Yellow | $2,350 at bergdorfgoodman.com
Brandon Blackwood
KUEI BAG
A recent discovery in Brandon Blackwood, I quickly realized he has a massive following and loyalty. BB bags return only briefly in a season as they are quickly snatched up. I love these ladylike styles in quality yet affordable spin on dressing up your day.
Shown in Navy Croc Embossed | $165 at brandonblackwood.com
MZ Wallace
SMALL METRO DELUXE TOTE
Puffer is showing up in everything from coats to pants and inevitably in bags. But MZ Wallace is the OG puffer bag brand you can always rely on for a seasonal swap in totes. The color blocking is definitely a standout statement trend this fall. Tuck the crossbody and grab and go for errands or strap across you for long travel days.
Shown in Magnet Flame Chevron | $245 at nordstrom.com
BOYY
BOBBY 18 BUCKLED LEATHER TOTE
This cutie from fashion-forward brand BOYY fits just the right necessities; keys, wallet, phone, mask, and your favorite lip pick. A ladylike style that works with any aesthetic.
Shown in Beige | $895 at netaporter.com
Balenciaga
BLACK NEO CLASSIC CITY MINI GRAINED-LEATHER BAG
A rugged moto style for when you’re feeling edgy and cool. Balenciaga’s hero city bag has been a wardrobe staple since its introduction over a decade ago proving it stands the test of time.
Shown in Black | $1,850 at matchesfashion.con
Cuyana
SMALL STRUCTURED LEATHER TOTE
A shrunken down version of a classic tote style - this mini includes the standard double shoulder straps with a bonus single shoulder/crossbody to step in for supporting your tablet and toiletries. Make it personal by adding your monogram.
Shown in Merlot/Pebble | $175 at cuyana.com
Valextra
SMALL ISIDE TOTE BAG
The queen of under the radar, classic sophistication. Valextra consistently delivers timeless styles sans logo-mania in all the right colors and shapes. This small tote is the right amount of size for maximizing its wearability. Look to grey this season as the number one neutral.
Shown in Stone/Grey | $2,831 at farfetch.com
Celine
NANO BELT BAG IN GRAINED CALFSKIN
For the color lovers (though, also available in your favorite neutral palettes), this quintessential style from Celine never disappoints. Carry it with your hand, shoulder, or across your body as the investment piece of the season. The grained leather is durable and elevated at once.
Shown in Fox Red | $2,831 at 24s.com
Saint Laurent
Cassandra YSL Mini Leopard-Print Top Handle Bag
Animal print is the ultimate neutral. For lovers of the feline aesthetic, this canvas-printed mini tote takes a monochromatic or minimalistic look up a notch. The iconic YSL latch locks your belongings securely, with a splash of gold detailing. Slip pockets inside keep your bare necessities neat, tidy, and tucked into the right spot.
Shown in Leopard | $2,250 at neimanmarcus.com
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