BY ARI Y.
Find out how to put together a tote-ally stylish #OOTD
On the runway or on the arm of that A-list celebrity, tote bags are a fashion staple and a mainstay in any current collection of trends. And why not? Convenient and compact, or spacious and sleek, there’s a bag for even the most discerning of tote tastes out there. If you’re hunting down a new one to add to your collection, or simply seeking some style inspiration, we’ve put together a list of outfits that should pair perfectly with some must-have, designer totes you’ll love.
Outstanding Office Wear
Even long days at the office and endless Zoom meetings don’t mean you can’t look both fashionable and comfortable. And just like every girl boss out there, you’ll need the ideal business partner in the form of a sophisticated and roomy, not bulky, leather tote bag. In dark or muted colors, it makes a dynamic duo with a cute blouse and a-line skirt, a belted dress, or a pristine power suit and heels. Its effortlessly elegant aesthetic also means it won’t be sorely out of place after hours when you’re kicking back with co-workers for a round of cocktails.
Color Chic
You unabashedly love to play with patterns and experiment with color, so don’t limit it to just your clothes. A color-block tote is a stylishly smart way to add a dose of ‘chic’ to your ensemble and is perfect for any sort of outing, from running quick errands to a lunch date just for you and bae. And with two (or more) colors, you’ll have extra options and alternatives to coordinate with. Thanks to its deceptively simple, but stunning design, you can easily pair it with an outfit of eye-catching prints layered over plain pieces to create a contrast of your own.
Bags For The Bros
Who says dudes can’t rock totes too? There’s only so much you can cram into two pockets after all. And while real men are all about convenience and function, no man wants the sweat stains that come with clunky backpacks in this perpetually hot and humid weather. With a tote in tow, you’ll never have to sacrifice sticking to just your wallet and phone either. Elevate any low-key and casual clothing, like that timeless t-shirt and jeans look, or your usual work attire with a printed or logo-emblazoned tote for a more polished fashion fit without going overboard.
Globe Tote-tter
While we’re not planning to book plane tickets anytime soon for the sake of safety, it doesn’t mean you can’t start mentally putting together your travel garb for future getaways. And whenever you’re on foreign shores, practical and comfy fashion is the name of the game. Like a neutral, light jacket and printed pants for cooler temperatures or a frilled and whimsical sleeveless top with a denim skort for sunnier scenery. Both options make a seamless match for a solid-toned, expandable tote that lets you take along everything you need, from your passport to your camera, and then some.
Coffee and Couture
As lockdowns are laxer, vaccines roll out, and we feel that bit more confident spending time outside, you can’t blame yourself for wanting some quality time with friends and family you haven’t seen in months. So treat every catch-up over coffee and tea like the special occasion it is with understated but lovely fashion pieces, like patterned sundresses or fun rompers with a cute wedge heel. You’ll definitely embody those summer vibes all year long, especially when you sling on a unique, woven bucket tote to complete the picture.
Looking for alternative tote options? Explore more bags for men and women on ZALORA.