These Are the Best Leather Totes That Will Fit It ALL
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You know how the saying goes...one can never have too many shoes. Or was it coats? Jeans? I forget. But while we’re here, let’s throw bags onto the list. Not just any bags—we’re talking about leather TOTES, people. Practical and polished, leather totes are a mainstay in any wardrobe because they work for alllllll sorts of situations. Dress ‘em up for an office holiday party, keep it purely utilitarian for your next work trip, or swap one into your grocery store tote rotation (c’mon, you know you have one).
Much like your favorite jewelry, the right leather tote enhances the look and feel of your outfit—your sweatpants-and-tee combo, for instance, will transform from tired to put-together. Since leather totes offer plenty of versatility, having a couple styles at the ready will ensure that you can chicly carry all your essentials, no matter the occasion. So, whether it’s because you need some portable storage for when you're on your way to the office, you're looking for a weekender bag, or you simply need something that will fit more than your keys and phone, you clicked on this story in search of the perfect leather tote, and I’m here to deliver!
Our top picks for the best leather tote bags of 2024:
In general, leather bags are an investment piece because they’re expected to be more durable and long-lasting. But FWIW, leather totes don’t have to be pricey, either. There are plenty of options under $200, so you can decide how much you’re willing to spend on this accessory staple. Below, 20 of the best leather totes that’ll keep you organized—and looking très chic if I say so myself.
Morell Tote
Brandon Blackwood has become a formidable force on the handbag scene, and the brand's trendy designs have been spotted on celebs and street style stars alike. This tote with brown shearling and leather is a popular option, with a classic shape that'll complement any ensemble.
Mini Helene North South Leather Tote Bag
Single bags of this size make life so easy. Obsessed with this one's sleek and structured shape.
Small Leather Goods
Rebecca Minkoff's bags are known for their signature clasp hardware that keeps all your goods secure. Try wearing this chic style as a top-handle work tote; it can even work as a weekender, because it's so roomy.
Little filippo bag
Ugh, tell me this isn't the most sophisticated gray color you've ever seen on a handbag? She's the nonchalant yet impossibly elegant tote you need on all your errands. If gray isn't your color, however, you can find this style in other neutral shades like black and stone.
Small Cutout Diagonal Tote in Black at Nordstrom
Everyone needs a tote that they use to fit absolutely everything. This diagonal bag is the one!
Tokyo Turnlock Tote
You are going to LOVE the handle length variety on this sturdy and stylish pick. Like, how good are all the turn-lock deets?!
Taxi Tote Bag (Orange)
Never seen a tote bag like this one! Loving the shape, (removable) handles, and fun orange hue.
Clarice Leather Tote
If you're looking for something ultra clean and polished, then you need to hit add to cart for this classic tote ASAP!
Fossil Kier Cactus Leather Tote
I bet you'll fall in love with this cactus tote. It comes with a removable pouch if you're the organizing type!
Marc Jacobs The Mini Tote
Of course, you know the tote bag. This rendition of the popular tote is so refreshing. I mean, just look at that pale blueish grey color!
Cuyana System Tote
This pebbled Italian leather style looks oh-so sleek on the outside, and has plenty of functional features on the inside. It comes in a couple other muted neutral hues, like olive green and caramel brown, and is available in two sizes. Plus, there's a removable strap, so you can wear it multiple ways. Oh so versatile!
Shekudo Viola Kitchen Sink Tote
Shekudo is known for making statement footwear and the same can be said about its bags, which are made-to-order in Lagos, Nigeria. The vibrant color combos are instant head-turners, and the tall, 17" shape on the v appropriately named Kitchen Sink Tote, allows for all the storage you need.
Fossil Carmen Leather Tote Bag Purse Handbag
Leather bags from Fossil have been longtime fashion staples, and the retailer still delivers after all these years. This one has a tri-colored strap, cute key-shaped charm, and stylish seam detailing.
Glowing Review: "This is a beautiful bag. It's soft and supple and has compartments to keep everything organized. I love the outside pocket for my cell phone. It's larger than I needed, but I love the shoulder strap on this better than the smaller totes and I do wear it on my shoulder. I wanted something that would easily hold my regular items and my iPad when traveling. This fit the bill! It's perfect."
BEIS The Work Tote
This croc-embossed option, appropriately named the Work Tote, from Shay Mitchell's brand looks great whether you're in or out of the office. There are pockets galore, including a padded laptop sleeve pocket with a velcro closure, and a handy key leash and detachable shoulder strap.
Glowing Review: "Bought this for a trip to Europe and it was perfect. I only brought a carry on and this bag for two weeks, if you can believe it! It fit under the plane seat in front of me. It's a bit big, but holds a lot."
Sarep + Rose Cara Tote Bag
Looking to expand your leather tote collection beyond your go-to black and brown color palette? Then a piece with a bold, eye-catching print like this one might be worth adding to your rotation.
Glowing Review: "At the front of the bag there is a pocket with a zipper and two side pockets. Inside there are two pockets for your phones and a large pocket with zipper. It holds my laptop, phones, iPad, makeup bag, and more. I recommend this bag to anyone looking for a large, luxurious, high-quality leather, functional, and unique bag."
Santos by Monica Agave Triangular Tote
This bag is kind of like a work of art, no? And it's made with vegan cactus leather, so it's more sustainable than most picks out there, yet just as stylish. This striking design is also available in other colors like black, green, and gold.
WANT Les Essentiels Mini O'Hare Leather Tote
With gold hardware and a chic top handle, this timeless black tote fits 11" tablets and smaller devices. The crossbody strap is detachable, so you can carry it like a tote. Another feature to love? The interior pockets are super deep.
Madewell The Medium Transport Tote
This everyday silhouette is one you'll find yourself grabbing, time and time again. The exterior pocket comes in handy when you need to grab something quick, and the top handle-crossbody strap combo offers endless styling options.
Glowing Review: "I've eyed this bag online for YEARS and never seemed to make the purchase. I walked into a Madewell store and it just called to me. I wouldn't change a thing about this bag. The front pocket perfectly stores my phone and lip balm. The interior pocket perfectly holds my lipstick and other small items. I actually prefer that the bag is open inside. I use small zipper compartment bags to stay organized. That way I can easily transfer them to another bag. Only, I don't see myself transferring to another bag anytime soon because this one is perfection!"
Kate Spade Knott Large Shoulder Bag
I know, I know, cream colored bags can be tricky when it comes to stains and discoloration. But when it's this beautiful, does it really matter? I think not. This classic shape will truly never go out of style.
Glowing Review: "Gorgeous bag, great size without being overwhelming. Quality construction and materials. Perfect for my summer bag and allows me to carry all the things a mom needs without forgoing style."
Proenza Schouler White Label Mercer Large Colorblock Leather Tote
Who knew Proenza Schouler made your next farmer's market bag? At 16.5", it's basically tall enough to stash a baguette, a bottle of wine, and fresh flowers. Plus, the long strap on this stone-hued design will sit nicely on your shoulders.
Why trust Cosmo:
Cosmo’s team of fashion experts—which includes fashion director Cassie Anderson and fashion features director Rachel Torgerson, senior accessories editor Andrea Zendejas, and fashion editors Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien and Danielle Flum—have decades of experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated a chic little corner of the internet for you like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!
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