Emily Dawes
There's been a serious case of Honey, I Shrunk the Handbag in the land of fashion in recent years, with everything from crossbodies to baguettes getting the shrink-ray treatment. Remember Jacquemus's Le Chiquito bag ("bag" being a generous term here), that could barely fit a 50-pence piece, let alone a phone? Remarkably, these micro purses sold out in droves. Well, I (and the rest of the fashion world) say enough is enough. While I can appreciate the dainty stylings of a shoulder bag or the neat proportions of a clutch as much as the next person, I simply can't get on board with the clickbait appeal of the nano bag.
If, like me, you're looking for an antidote to all this impractical fashion, let me introduce you to the macro tote, aka your new bag best friend. It can fit roughly 30 Le Chiquitos in it and embodies the saying "the bigger, the better" thanks to its roomy interiors and generous proportions. Purse, keys, phone? That's nothing—these bags will fit your laptop, lunch box, water bottle, book, hairbrush, etc. Essentially, everything except the kitchen sink.
If this isn't enough, the macro tote is also so easy to buy on a budget, as there are so many expensive-looking iterations floating around on the high street. Arket and COS's are looking particularly chic with their clean, minimalistic designs that will make any outfit look instantly more premium. If your budget is a little more generous, I'd recommend Dragon Diffuson's woven tote, which stands out with its intricate leather plaiting. Or for a logo-clad showpiece, you can't go wrong with a Saint Laurent shopper—maybe don't use it for the weekly groceries shop, though.
Scroll down to see and shop my edit of the best macro bags. Trust me—you won't regret it.
Style Notes: As a minimalist, Sylvie has gone for a classic timeless black tote bag. It'll never fail to look effortlessly chic, no matter the season, year or even decade you wear it in.
Style Notes: Proving bigger is better, Annemiek is rarely seen without her glossy brown Margaux mega-bag from The Row. Suddenly, the classic shopper is looking a whole lot more stylish—especially when paired with stripped-back separates.
Shop My Tote-Bag Edit
I personally love this classy black iteration, but this chic style comes in a whole host of other colours and finishes too.
Because brown suede for autumn is a no brainer.
The Row's iconic Margaux bag may be sold out everywhere, but the newer Marlo is just as luxurious and timeless, and I found some rare stock for you.
A thing of beauty.
I love this khaki green for complementing neutrals in autumn/winter.
This patchwork bag is on another level.
This bag is all about the silhouette.
All about the shape.
This quietly luxurious tote is top of my personal wish list.
The OG.
Roomy but not bulky.
I’d love to own a Saint Laurent tote.
These woven wonders aren't just for the warmer months.
This versatile tote also comes in a rich burgundy shade perfect for autumn.
The shape, the colour—Polène is a go-to for the best mid-price bags.
Everyone on our team wants this Métier tote.
I'm into the buckles.
Soft, squishy and sizeable. My favourite kind of bag.
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