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a collection of fashionable handbags showcased by various models
Courtesy of Free People, Miu Miu, DeMellier, Reformation, Kaai and Asos

The Best Leather Totes to Carry Everything—And Still Look Good

Is it a true schlep if it’s chic as hell?

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Because of my busy lifestyle, I need a bag that can keep up. Makeup touch-ups, chargers for all my devices, my precious Stanley tumbler—you name it, I like to be prepared for anything. And what better way to haul around my personal effects than in a sleek leather tote?

Best Leather Totes Shopping List

Whether I’m heading to the office with my laptop in tow or running weekend errands, a roomy tote saves me from juggling extra shopping bags, leaving my over-the-ear headphones behind, or having to hold a bulky sweater on temperature-fluctuating days. At the airport, there’s no need to reshuffle into another carry-on—a spacious tote already fits everything I need.

And while I love large bags, the smaller silhouettes right now are dangerously tempting too—picture a buttery-soft suede style that lends a refined finish to any outfit, or a slouchy east-west bag that instantly channels the chic, model-off-duty look.

When it comes to leather finishes, you’re spoiled for choice. Think classic pebble grain, smooth and glossy, plush suede, or the slightly burnished style that already feels lived-in. Whatever your preference—polished or a touch undone—there’s a tote out there calling your name. Ahead, the editor-approved selections that’ll do it all, no matter where you’re headed or what’s on your agenda.

The Casual Tote

Free People Emerson Handbag

Emerson Handbag

I’m seeing this bag everywhere—and it’s easy to see why. Its effortlessly cool, slouchy silhouette adds the perfect laid-back touch to any look, and with room for everything you need, it’s the ultimate in versatility.

Dimensions: Height: 12 inches; width: 14.5 inches; depth: 6.5 inches

Colors: Italian Straw, Secret Sage, Salt, Espresso, Saddle

Materials: Cow leather

Customer review: “I do believe this bag is my absolute favorite from all I’ve owned. Excellent quality, perfect size, gorgeous color, and just gorgeous all around. Leather is also so soft! Extremely happy with my purchase!”

The Sleek One

Cuyana System Tote

System Tote

If you’re after a tote that looks as good as it feels, this one’s got you covered. The smooth Italian pebble-grain leather and built-in handles make it perfect for your 9-to-5—and everything else on your schedule.

Dimensions: Height: 11 inches; width: 19 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Colors: 7 options

Materials: Cow leather

Customer review: “I shopped for a new laptop bag solution for over a year, and this has exceeded all my expectations. The quality is amazing, and I particularly love the lack of flashy details on the exterior. A classic, timeless look and very high quality. I’ll have this bag for many years to come.”

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The Affordable Find

ASOS Design Suede Tubular Tote Bag

Suede Tubular Tote Bag
Now 30% Off

Searching for a weekend tote with a touch of bohemian charm? This olive green beauty is a standout choice. The under-$50 price tag and array of chic colors make it challenging to choose just one.

Dimensions: Height: 13.7 inches; width: 15.3 inches; depth: 7 inches

Colors: Forest Green, Green, Brown, Tan

Materials: 80% suede, 20% leather

Customer review: “Love this purse, the quality is great. Very spacious!”

The Celebrity-Loved Bag

DeMellier The New York

The New York

I’ve been obsessed with this DeMellier tote ever since I saw it on style icon Katie Holmes—it instantly earned a spot on my wish list. Snap buttons let you switch between two chic silhouettes, while the long handles ensure it sits comfortably under your shoulder (even when it’s packed to the brim).

Dimensions: Height: 10.7 inches; width: 14.2 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Colors: 9 options

Materials: Suede cowhide leather

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CEO Status

Tory Burch Romy Pebble Leather Tote

Romy Pebble Leather Tote

Now this is a tote that commands attention. The adjustable drawstring belt adds an effortlessly cool touch, and the rich pebble-grain leather has a gorgeous, subtle sheen. And with a magnetic snap to keep your personal items secure, it’s as practical as it is head-turning.

Dimensions: Height: 11.6 inches; width: 12.4 inches; depth: 6.7 inches

Colors: Black, Light Granite, Deep Brown, Tiramisu, Wild Mushroom

Materials: Pebbled leather

Customer review: “This is the perfect everyday bag. Quality materials and very easy to carry and access.”

The Amazon Must-Have

HOXIS Oversize Vegan Leather Tote

Oversize Vegan Leather Tote

Despite being crafted from vegan leather, it still earns a spot on my list. Featured in our selection of the best Amazon totes, this budget-friendly gem comes in at under $30—an absolute steal. With rave reviews and a minimalist design, it’s the ultimate throw-on-and-go bag that pairs seamlessly with everything in your wardrobe.

Dimensions: Height: 15 inches; width: 22 inches; depth: 6.5 inches

Colors: 10 options

Materials: Synthetic leather

Customer review: “This bag exceeded my expectations. I’ve used it for everything: toiletries, shoes, towels, and even grocery shopping. One time I weighed it, and it was holding 10 kilos (22 pounds)! And it held up perfectly. I walk more than a kilometer with it daily, fully loaded, and after a year of constant use, it still looks brand new.”

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The Elegant Staple

Rebecca Minkoff Frankie Woven Tote

Frankie Woven Tote

This is one of my personal favorites, thanks to its spacious interior that fits everything I need for work and travel. I also love the ease of switching between the shorter and longer straps for a perfect fit. The tote features a structured silhouette, an intricate woven design, and an eye-catching gold charm.

Dimensions: Height: 12 inches; width: 16.75 inches; depth: 6 inches

Colors: Black, Cherrywood, Tawny, Willow

Materials: 100% leather

The Trendy Tote

Marc Jacobs The Leather Medium Tote Bag

The Leather Medium Tote Bag

The famed Marc Jacobs tote—adored by Kendall Jenner, Emily Ratajkowski, and more—went viral for its functional, structured silhouette, versatile crossbody strap, and bold statement lettering. The medium size is perfect for any occasion, and beyond timeless neutral shades, it comes in a range of fun, punchy colors.

Dimensions: Height: 10 inches; width: 13 inches; depth: 5 inches

Colors: 12 options

Materials: 100% leather

Customer review: “This is probably one of my all-time favorite bags—and I have a lot of bags. I’ve had this now for about 6 months and haven’t switched from it since I purchased it. The quality is amazing and the size is perfect.”

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The Unique Shape

Khaite Medium Lotus Tote

Medium Lotus Tote

For something a little more distinct, this Khaite tote is a refined choice that continually lands our editor’s must-have lists, thanks to its scarf-inspired silhouette and ultra-lightweight feel. And if, like me, you’re a devotee of suede, the Rouge Noir Suede version is the showstopper you need.

Dimensions: Height: 15.5 inches; width: 22 inches; depth: 8.5 inches

Colors: 12 options

Materials: 100% calfskin leather

The Editor-Favorite

Kaai Horizon Tote

Horizon Tote

This might be the holy grail of work totes. I’m smitten with the rich chocolate brown shade, and the design includes an outer pocket plus multiple interior compartments, including a spacious padded section that fits a 16-inch laptop. For travel, the built-in trolley strap keeps it securely perched on your suitcase, and the reinforced slender straps make this a durable option you’ll reach for daily.

Dimensions: Height: 11.8 inches; width: 14.6 inches; depth: 5.5 inches

Colors: Suede Espresso, Soft Touch Espresso

Materials: 100% leather

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The It Girl Tote

Miu Miu Aventure Nappa Leather Bag

Aventure Nappa Leather Bag

Miu Miu bags have cemented their status as the ultimate It girl accessory—and I love how I’ve seen this one styled, whether dressed up with cascading charms or stuffed to the brim for daily use. The relaxed silhouette and lived-in feel instantly elevate any ensemble.

Dimensions: Height: 12.2 inches; width: 15.7 inches; depth: 5.1 inches

Colors: Briarwood, Oak, Suede

Materials: Lambskin

The Embellished Style

Valentino Garavani Nellcôte Mini Tote Bag

Nellcôte Mini Tote Bag

After spotting Bella Hadid with several versions of Valentino’s Nellcôte, I couldn’t resist checking out the collection. That’s when I discovered this exquisite mini version. It’s the perfect companion for dinner outings—just the right size for your phone, wallet, and a few makeup essentials.

Dimensions: Height: 6.2 inches; width: 8.2 inches; depth: 1.9 inches

Color: Havana Beige

Materials: Suede

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Powerfully Polished

The Row Large North South Park Tote Bag

Large North South Park Tote Bag

Minimal and timeless, this tote is designed to last. The buttery-soft pebble-grain calf leather lends a luxurious touch, while the open-top design makes reaching for essentials, like keys or a water bottle, a breeze.

Dimensions: Height: 15 inches; width: 9 inches; depth: 8 inches

Color: Black

Materials: Leather, suede lining

The Perfect Work Tote

Maison de Sabré Large Leather Snap Soft Tote

Large Leather Snap Soft Tote

I’m a big fan of Maison de Sabré’s timeless designs, and this sleek tote is my current fixation. Available in chic, wear-anywhere shades, it fits a 16-inch laptop, has a magnetic snap closure, and includes two internal hanging compartments to keep everything organized. In short, it’s the ultimate work tote.

Dimensions: Height: 6.2 inches; width: 8.2 inches; depth: 1.9 inches

Colors: Sandstone Lily, Rouge Noir

Materials: 100% full-grain leather

Customer review: “I love this tote—it fits all I need and is the perfect size to carry around. I haven't walked into a place where someone hasn’t complimented the beautiful color.”

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Pure Elegance

Aspinal of London London Tote

London Tote

Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift, Gigi Hadid, and Kate Middleton are all admirers of this designer label, celebrated for its impeccable craftsmanship and luxurious leather. This ivory tote stands out with its distinctive woven texture and effortlessly chic silhouette.

Dimensions: Height: 10.5 inches; width: 17 inches; depth: 6 inches

Colors: 13 options

Materials: Full-grain leather

Smartly Organized

Carl Friedrik Ashby Tote

Ashby Tote

This bag is all about quiet luxury. The exterior keeps things simple, but peek inside and you’ll find a dedicated tech pocket, three additional open pockets, and pen slots for seamless organization. Crafted from supple vegetable-tanned vachetta leather and finished with custom nickel-plated hardware, it’s a commuter’s dream

Dimensions: Height: 11.5 inches; width: 18 inches; depth: 5 inches

Colors: Black, Cognac

Materials: Vachetta leather

Customer review: “I recently used this bag as my personal item for a long-haul international flight. It held my laptop, technology organizer, notebook, paperback, snacks, and more. The zipper meant I could zip it up securely when I needed to put it in the overhead bin. It looks beautiful and carries everything I need for a flight or conference day.”

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The Softest Suede

Flattered Lesley Tote Bag

Lesley Tote Bag

One of my favorite bags in my collection is a dreamy suede clutch from Flattered (it’s truly one of the softest pieces I own). So when I spotted this gorgeous suede tote from the same label, I didn’t hesitate to add it to my cart. It has a cotton lining, chic buckle details on both sides, and long straps for easy over-the-shoulder wear. And if you’re after a darker color, the black version is just as irresistible.

Dimensions: Height: 12.6 inches; width: 14.5 inches; depth: 6.3 inches

Colors: Bourbon, Black, Chocolate

Materials: Calf suede

The City-Ready Tote

Coach Gramercy Leather Tote

Gramercy Leather Tote

I love the feel of Coach’s leather, and lately I’ve been eyeing the Gramercy Tote along with the trending Brooklyn 39 bag. This city-ready style has buckle-detailed shoulder straps and an elongated east-west silhouette. If you’re anything like me, you’re already imagining how perfectly it will complement your fall wardrobe.

Dimensions: Height: 10.3 inches; width: 13.8 inches; depth: 7.8 inches

Colors: Maple, Black, Cream

Materials: Leather

Customer review: “It’s so beautiful! The leather is smooth and has a beautiful soft grain. The feet really help keep it upright, and I love how strong the magnetic clasp is. It’s big enough to be a beach bag but elegant enough for a ritzy overnight trip.”

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The Designer Style

Gucci Totissima Small Reversible Tote Bag

Totissima Small Reversible Tote Bag

How delightful is this mini Gucci tote, subtly embossed with an understated logo? Its standout detail lies in its reversible design, offering two chic looks in one. Choose the charming sky-blue side for a playful pop of color, or flip it to reveal the house’s iconic GG canvas.

Dimensions: Height: 7.3 inches; width: 8.3 inches; depth: 6.3 inches

Color: Light Blue

Materials: Leather, canvas

Sophisticated in Suede

Tom Ford Medium Audrey Suede Tote

Medium Audrey Suede Tote

Tom Ford gets it when it comes to sophisticated style. I can’t stop dreaming about this luxurious tote—imagine how chic it would look with crisp tailored trousers and a cashmere sweater.

Dimensions: Height: 12.2 inches; width: 14.6 inches; depth: 7.7 inches

Color: Whisky

Materials: Suede

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a collection of fashionable handbags showcased by various models
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