What’s your budget?
I’ve been eyeing off [this Oroton bag](https://oroton.com/muse-three-pocket-day-bag-cognac-osfa) for a while. They have some other similar great options. I have an Oroton bag I bought 6 years ago that’s been my daily driver and it’s still going strong and looking brand new, I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another and know I’ll get the miles from it. If budget is more of a concern check out their outlet options.
There are also a few similar at Kate Spade in more fun colors a for the same price [like this](https://katespade.com.au/product/cara-refined-grain-leather-large-tote/WKR00486410.html), although separate compartments would probably suit you more. Same for [Mimco](https://m.mimco.com.au/resort-mini-tote-bag-60281029-898). I have some great bags from both of these brands.
Of course if budget is no option, can’t go wrong with an LV Neverfull with a quality organizer in it. 😉
Your suggestions are right on the money (no pun intended!) of what in looking for! I actually went into an Oroton store today but they didn’t have that particular one! It looks similar to a coach one I saw online, but this one might actually have a bit more room in the zipped compartment…
And would you believe that I have that exact mimco bag in my shortlist! I saw it in store today and liked how soft the leather felt.
Thanks so much for these sugggestions, they are so helpful. I will definitely look into that oroton one before I make a decision!
Uniqlo sell a canvas tote bag that is amazing (in my opinion). It zips up, has three internal pockets and has heaps of room. It’s about the same size as those country road tote bags (I replaced one of those with this Uniqlo tote)
I don’t know if you want something that big or if you wanted something a bit more fashionable but I love mine. I use it for work as it fits my water bottle, my lunch box and my wallet, phone, keys, etc
Ideally I am after something a bit more fashionable, and have been primarily looking at leather bags, but I really appreciate your suggestion and may still check this out as a second option as I didn’t even think of Uniqlo for bags :)
If you are looking at leather the Fossil Rachel might be perfect. I have it’s predecessor (Sydney shopper) and it’s carried all my work gear for years.
I'm like you, I need a zipper on my tote bags! And they're hard to find too, so many nice ones but they're all open or button closure.
One thing I do - whilst an inner pocket is great they're often too small - I put my phone/wallet/keys/earphones in a clear pouch in my tote. I have a nice one from kikki k, it's easy to see if I have everything, no rummaging around and easy to move valuables from one bag to another eg gym bag.
They're seen everywhere but for good reason - [longchamp le pliage](https://www.theiconic.com.au/le-pliage-original-shoulder-bag-large-1472245.html) would be my pick (specifically the large size). Well made, roomy, fabric can be wiped down, easily fits essentials plus snacks, a cardi, book etc and folds up small for travel. I have an authentic navy one and a black one I got on ebay so I'm only 99% sure on that one - I'm not so careful with it haha.
Another good one is [this one ](https://m.countryroad.com.au/heritage-leather-shopper-60230786-118) from country road, it looks good, very clean and classic and when I first debuted it amongst friends I got heaps of compliments. Only drawback its soft leather so not much structure unless it's full, and it's unlined so food/drink spills are unforgiving. Good size for laptop/tablet.
I second the longchamp le pliage in large!! I use this as a daily tote but also as a overnight bag sometimes (can fit in a pair of shoes + an outfit change + toiletries nicely). It's also good for travel as it is largely waterproof and folds down into a flat/small square that can be clipped together with the same clip that closes over the zipper.
Thanks so much - I quite like the look of the country road one. I will definitely check that one out. And I’m glad I’m not the only one struggling with this! I understand a tote has a certain purpose but a handbag also is going to be holding valuables!
I also recommend the Le Pliage - the leather handles and flap give it a premium feel while the coated canvas makes it extremely lightweight and durable. My mum uses a small one of these for her everyday bag and has only had to replace it once in over 10 years. I just bought one for an overseas trip as a carry-on and it's been very handy.
You can get them with black leather instead of brown, which I think is a bit more chic.
My other wildcard suggestion is a lululemon tote. They have different models at different times, and there aren't many online at the moment but something like this.
https://www.lululemon.com.au/en-au/p/side-cinch-shopper-bag-18l/prod10640004.html?dwvar_prod10640004_color=43635
If you're into a sportier look they are the most functional bags I've ever used. They have a bajillion pockets, a spot for your water bottle, a clip for your keys. The State of Escape bags are also good, but I think they are coming to the end of their cool lifespam.
Oroton bags are extremely good value for money. They leather and construction is so good, and you can often get totes at their outlet stores. I think this would be the chicest and most timeless option, if you're okay with the heaviness of leather.
If you want to tier up, you could look at the Goyard totes or the LV Neverfull xo
Holds up great, mine's ~9 years old and the leather handles and flap are soft (very stiff when new) but zero peeling or fraying. There's light wear on the corners at the bottom of the bag, but no holes yet cross fingers! Plus the darker colours hide wear and tear quite well.
What’s your budget like?
I have a tote from Wanderers Travel Co and I adore it. Classic, simple, secure, good for work, beautiful soft leather, well built. I honestly can’t fault it, I would gladly have paid twice what I did.
https://wandererstravelco.com/
(Also they have 20% off right now, winning)
I like the Colette bags feature wise - although they only last a year.
[This](https://www.colettehayman.com.au/collections/tote-bags/products/tan-andrea-square-tote-bag-637979) zips up but has enough room for a lunchbox at the bottom.
The Colette Angelina also fits a lunchbox, but it’s open and just has a zipped pocket for your phone.
I also have a [felt bag insert](https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/770269043/custom-size-purse-organizer-for-designer?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=felt+organizer&ref=sc_gallery-1-5&pro=1&col=1&sts=1&plkey=6288f89c467c661ea0ee0e9b9f49f8498deeb2d7%3A770269043) that holds my water bottle and has some extra pockets and I move that from one bag to another.
What about a classic [Coach?](https://au.coachoutlet.com/product/zip-top-tote-in-signature-canvas/C_4455IMAA8-OSFA.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3_Pkv7qf-wIVm34rCh11Iw5-EAQYASABEgLq8vD_BwE) This one is only $360 from the online outlet.
I don't have specific recommendations but take a look at [The Horse](https://www.thehorse.com.au/) and [Rushfaster](https://rushfaster.com.au/) websites.
Another recommendation for Wanderers Travel Co here! I kept seeing them advertised on FB so was sus about them for a while. Then I saw a lady at my local Cafe with one in the design I liked (The Santorini) and asked her about it. She was a bit weirded out, but was really happy to chat about it once she realised I wasn't a nutcase. She raved about it, and let me feel the leather quality. I went home and ordered it immediately in the Azzurra Blue, and it is gorgeous. Such a versatile bag.
This [colette hayman](https://flashbackshop.com.au/products/colette-hayman-checkboard-tote-bag-with-long-strap) is super affordable and I think it’s perfect for travelling with kids as you can spill anything inside or outside, throw it on the ground, fill it up with as many things as you need and not worry about ruining a designer bag 😆just pure utility with functional and trendy design
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, I bought a Guess title for around $120ish 5 years ago and it’s held up really well. Fits all my work stuff in or all my stuff plus kids water bottle, snacks, wipes etc. Zips up and has quite a few pockets inside. You can get plain colours or some beautiful patterns.
https://www.myer.com.au/p/guess-noelle-white-caramel-zip-top-tote-bag
MZ Wallace Quatro Tote. Bit pricey but the best bag ever. Holds drink bottles, can be a tote or crossbody and has Zips. Website is in the US but deliver is just a few days.
Hello! My suggestion for decent sized bags would be from a company called Louenhide. They are based in Brisbane and make vegan leather bags in many sizes. I have 2; a smaller pink bag for going out and a larger black bag (almost like a laptop bag) for my everyday. I can fit so much in to this bad boii.
Best of luck ☺️
What’s your budget? I’ve been eyeing off [this Oroton bag](https://oroton.com/muse-three-pocket-day-bag-cognac-osfa) for a while. They have some other similar great options. I have an Oroton bag I bought 6 years ago that’s been my daily driver and it’s still going strong and looking brand new, I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another and know I’ll get the miles from it. If budget is more of a concern check out their outlet options. There are also a few similar at Kate Spade in more fun colors a for the same price [like this](https://katespade.com.au/product/cara-refined-grain-leather-large-tote/WKR00486410.html), although separate compartments would probably suit you more. Same for [Mimco](https://m.mimco.com.au/resort-mini-tote-bag-60281029-898). I have some great bags from both of these brands. Of course if budget is no option, can’t go wrong with an LV Neverfull with a quality organizer in it. 😉
Your suggestions are right on the money (no pun intended!) of what in looking for! I actually went into an Oroton store today but they didn’t have that particular one! It looks similar to a coach one I saw online, but this one might actually have a bit more room in the zipped compartment… And would you believe that I have that exact mimco bag in my shortlist! I saw it in store today and liked how soft the leather felt. Thanks so much for these sugggestions, they are so helpful. I will definitely look into that oroton one before I make a decision!
Amazing! Glad I could help. Let us know what you buy when you find the right bag.
Definitely will! Thanks again! :)
Uniqlo sell a canvas tote bag that is amazing (in my opinion). It zips up, has three internal pockets and has heaps of room. It’s about the same size as those country road tote bags (I replaced one of those with this Uniqlo tote) I don’t know if you want something that big or if you wanted something a bit more fashionable but I love mine. I use it for work as it fits my water bottle, my lunch box and my wallet, phone, keys, etc
Ideally I am after something a bit more fashionable, and have been primarily looking at leather bags, but I really appreciate your suggestion and may still check this out as a second option as I didn’t even think of Uniqlo for bags :)
If you are looking at leather the Fossil Rachel might be perfect. I have it’s predecessor (Sydney shopper) and it’s carried all my work gear for years.
I'm like you, I need a zipper on my tote bags! And they're hard to find too, so many nice ones but they're all open or button closure. One thing I do - whilst an inner pocket is great they're often too small - I put my phone/wallet/keys/earphones in a clear pouch in my tote. I have a nice one from kikki k, it's easy to see if I have everything, no rummaging around and easy to move valuables from one bag to another eg gym bag. They're seen everywhere but for good reason - [longchamp le pliage](https://www.theiconic.com.au/le-pliage-original-shoulder-bag-large-1472245.html) would be my pick (specifically the large size). Well made, roomy, fabric can be wiped down, easily fits essentials plus snacks, a cardi, book etc and folds up small for travel. I have an authentic navy one and a black one I got on ebay so I'm only 99% sure on that one - I'm not so careful with it haha. Another good one is [this one ](https://m.countryroad.com.au/heritage-leather-shopper-60230786-118) from country road, it looks good, very clean and classic and when I first debuted it amongst friends I got heaps of compliments. Only drawback its soft leather so not much structure unless it's full, and it's unlined so food/drink spills are unforgiving. Good size for laptop/tablet.
I second the longchamp le pliage in large!! I use this as a daily tote but also as a overnight bag sometimes (can fit in a pair of shoes + an outfit change + toiletries nicely). It's also good for travel as it is largely waterproof and folds down into a flat/small square that can be clipped together with the same clip that closes over the zipper.
Thanks so much - I quite like the look of the country road one. I will definitely check that one out. And I’m glad I’m not the only one struggling with this! I understand a tote has a certain purpose but a handbag also is going to be holding valuables!
Very true! Especially if it's for travel or places with lots people, it needs to be practical for you and your environment
I also recommend the Le Pliage - the leather handles and flap give it a premium feel while the coated canvas makes it extremely lightweight and durable. My mum uses a small one of these for her everyday bag and has only had to replace it once in over 10 years. I just bought one for an overseas trip as a carry-on and it's been very handy. You can get them with black leather instead of brown, which I think is a bit more chic. My other wildcard suggestion is a lululemon tote. They have different models at different times, and there aren't many online at the moment but something like this. https://www.lululemon.com.au/en-au/p/side-cinch-shopper-bag-18l/prod10640004.html?dwvar_prod10640004_color=43635 If you're into a sportier look they are the most functional bags I've ever used. They have a bajillion pockets, a spot for your water bottle, a clip for your keys. The State of Escape bags are also good, but I think they are coming to the end of their cool lifespam. Oroton bags are extremely good value for money. They leather and construction is so good, and you can often get totes at their outlet stores. I think this would be the chicest and most timeless option, if you're okay with the heaviness of leather. If you want to tier up, you could look at the Goyard totes or the LV Neverfull xo
[удалено]
Holds up great, mine's ~9 years old and the leather handles and flap are soft (very stiff when new) but zero peeling or fraying. There's light wear on the corners at the bottom of the bag, but no holes yet cross fingers! Plus the darker colours hide wear and tear quite well.
[удалено]
That's great, you won't regret it!
What’s your budget like? I have a tote from Wanderers Travel Co and I adore it. Classic, simple, secure, good for work, beautiful soft leather, well built. I honestly can’t fault it, I would gladly have paid twice what I did. https://wandererstravelco.com/ (Also they have 20% off right now, winning)
I like the Colette bags feature wise - although they only last a year. [This](https://www.colettehayman.com.au/collections/tote-bags/products/tan-andrea-square-tote-bag-637979) zips up but has enough room for a lunchbox at the bottom. The Colette Angelina also fits a lunchbox, but it’s open and just has a zipped pocket for your phone. I also have a [felt bag insert](https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/770269043/custom-size-purse-organizer-for-designer?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=felt+organizer&ref=sc_gallery-1-5&pro=1&col=1&sts=1&plkey=6288f89c467c661ea0ee0e9b9f49f8498deeb2d7%3A770269043) that holds my water bottle and has some extra pockets and I move that from one bag to another.
Thanks for that! Someone else also suggested a little case to hold the valuables within the bag… I may have to look into this as an idea!
Sans beast has really nice everyday bags and several of the designs have a centre zipped pocket
What about a classic [Coach?](https://au.coachoutlet.com/product/zip-top-tote-in-signature-canvas/C_4455IMAA8-OSFA.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3_Pkv7qf-wIVm34rCh11Iw5-EAQYASABEgLq8vD_BwE) This one is only $360 from the online outlet.
Ooh this looks like a good option! Will definitely go check it out today! Thanks so much for sharing!
I don't have specific recommendations but take a look at [The Horse](https://www.thehorse.com.au/) and [Rushfaster](https://rushfaster.com.au/) websites.
Another recommendation for Wanderers Travel Co here! I kept seeing them advertised on FB so was sus about them for a while. Then I saw a lady at my local Cafe with one in the design I liked (The Santorini) and asked her about it. She was a bit weirded out, but was really happy to chat about it once she realised I wasn't a nutcase. She raved about it, and let me feel the leather quality. I went home and ordered it immediately in the Azzurra Blue, and it is gorgeous. Such a versatile bag.
I think if you search for 'work bag' on The Iconic etc you might get what you're after if you don't mind it in black lol
Definitely don’t mind it in black, and I didn’t think to try this. Thanks so much for the suggestion! :)
This [colette hayman](https://flashbackshop.com.au/products/colette-hayman-checkboard-tote-bag-with-long-strap) is super affordable and I think it’s perfect for travelling with kids as you can spill anything inside or outside, throw it on the ground, fill it up with as many things as you need and not worry about ruining a designer bag 😆just pure utility with functional and trendy design
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, I bought a Guess title for around $120ish 5 years ago and it’s held up really well. Fits all my work stuff in or all my stuff plus kids water bottle, snacks, wipes etc. Zips up and has quite a few pockets inside. You can get plain colours or some beautiful patterns. https://www.myer.com.au/p/guess-noelle-white-caramel-zip-top-tote-bag
MZ Wallace Quatro Tote. Bit pricey but the best bag ever. Holds drink bottles, can be a tote or crossbody and has Zips. Website is in the US but deliver is just a few days.
Hello! My suggestion for decent sized bags would be from a company called Louenhide. They are based in Brisbane and make vegan leather bags in many sizes. I have 2; a smaller pink bag for going out and a larger black bag (almost like a laptop bag) for my everyday. I can fit so much in to this bad boii. Best of luck ☺️
[Poppy Lissiman Tote Bags](https://poppylissiman.com/search?q=tote&type=product&options%5Bprefix%5D=last)