5 Ways to Style a Tote Bag
Tote bags are more than just practical—they’re the ultimate style companions. From quick grocery runs to busy workdays or laid-back weekends, different types of tote bags effortlessly fit into every aspect of your life. Their simplicity makes them incredibly versatile, allowing you endless opportunities to showcase your personal style.
In this article, we’ll show you how easy it is to style tote bags with different outfits and share some fun, creative tips for customising your bag to truly reflect your personality.
Casual Denim Outfit
Nothing says laid-back style quite like denim paired with a tote bag. Whether you're in your favourite jeans, a denim jacket, or a comfortable chambray shirt, a tote bag matches perfectly with this casual look.
A canvas, leather, or Black Ember tote adds a cool and relaxed feel, ideal for weekends or grabbing coffee with friends. Finish your outfit with white sneakers or boots, and you've got a classic casual look that never fails.
Professional Ensemble
For workdays, tote bags are fantastic because they're stylish yet practical. Leather totes especially give a polished, professional touch that pairs beautifully with tailored pants, pencil skirts, or a sharp blazer.
These bags have ample space for your laptop, documents, and other essentials. Stick with neutral colours like black, tan, or navy to keep your look professional yet effortlessly chic from the office to after-work drinks.
Monochrome Chic
If you love sleek, minimalist looks, styling a tote bag with a monochrome outfit is a fashionable choice. Pick a tote that matches or complements your outfit's main colour for an elegant, streamlined appearance.
Monochrome doesn't have to be boring; experiment with textures like smooth leather bags alongside silk shirts or canvas totes with knitted sweaters. It's an effortlessly sophisticated look perfect for just about any occasion.
Flowy Dress
Another way to wear a tote bag is to pair it with your favourite flowy dress. This match is made in fashion heaven, especially when the weather warms up.
Go for lighter materials like straw, wicker, jute, or canvas, which perfectly complement the easy-going style of dresses. This pairing is ideal for brunches, picnics, or beach days. Complete your look with sandals, sunglasses, and some simple jewellery for an effortlessly chic vibe.
Athleisure
The athleisure trend is all about comfort without sacrificing style, making travel tote bags an ideal match. Pair your leggings, hoodies, or sporty jackets with a practical tote made from durable materials like nylon or XPAC. Bags like the Alpaka Bravo Tote Axoflux are great options, offering functionality and modern style—perfect for gym sessions, errands, or casual meet-ups.
How to Make a Tote Bag Your Own
The simple design of tote bags gives you the perfect blank canvas for customisation. Here are some easy ways to carry a tote bag and make it truly yours:
Attach Charms
Adding charms or keychains instantly gives your everyday bag personality. Choose something meaningful to you, like symbols, initials, or favourite colours. Charms are a quick way to make a basic tote feel special and uniquely yours.
Tie a Scarf
Tying a colourful scarf around your tote's handle instantly adds flair. Go for scarves with interesting patterns or bold colours. This small detail can make a huge difference, adding both style and a pop of colour to your outfit.
Use Organisers
Keep your tote stylish and functional by using internal organisers or small pouches. Not only do these help keep your belongings neat, but they also help maintain your tote’s shape, giving it a more polished and put-together look.
Embroider
Personalising your tote bag with embroidery adds a unique, handcrafted touch. Whether it’s your initials, a simple design, or a detailed pattern, embroidery makes your tote distinctly yours. Canvas totes are especially great for embroidery projects, turning your everyday bag into a personalised accessory.
Paint
Painting your tote is a fun and expressive way to make it stand out. Use fabric paint to create abstract designs, illustrations, or inspiring quotes.
Painting your tote bag not only makes it more stylish but also lets your creativity shine. This DIY approach is perfect if you love crafting or sustainable fashion.
Learn How to Wear Your Tote Bag
Styling your tote bag isn't just about following fashion trends—it’s about making your bag uniquely you. Tote bags are incredibly versatile, fitting effortlessly into almost every aspect of your daily life, from casual weekend hangouts to busy workdays and everything in between.
Mixing your tote with various styles—from relaxed denim to polished professional looks or comfy athleisure—allows you to express your style easily. Remember, simple customisations like charms, scarves, organisers, embroidery, or paint can turn your everyday tote bag into a meaningful and personalised fashion statement. So, go ahead and have fun experimenting with your tote, making it a true reflection of your personality and style.