Joan FoleyI follow Parisiens in Paris to get inspired by the pictures of women going about their day in casual style.
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For many reasons, I love the oversized tote bag but specifically for one. It cuts down on accumulating reusable bags. I already have so many, from 3 Christmases ago in the back of my car, hanging on hooks in the mudroom, smaller bags stuffed into larger bags. Does this sound familiar?
When I remember to bring one along for a shopping excursion I sometimes get questioning looks from the sales associate when I say, “I don’t need a bag, I have this,” offering a reusable bag that says, “Shop Local.” She looks at me questionably, as if she did something wrong.
I could rattle off the facts of how single use bags, even if used repeatedly, are not very good for the environment but I don’t. Not wanting to suck the air out of the new-purchase-vibe, I say, “It’s OK, I’m going right home,” awkwardly waiting as she opens the floppy handles placing a tissue wrapped shirt inside the cloth bag with bits of old onion skins, and a Whole Foods receipt. The handles twist around as I wait at my locked car while searching for car keys at the bottom of my purse and then coat pockets and finally the twisted cloth bag. All the while having to pee. Have you been there?
So my goal this season was to acquire Parisian style. Find an extra large tote, to cut back on the waste of accumulating more reusable bags that I don’t need. One that is large enough to hold everything for the day; a water bottle, sweater for air conditioning, a portable lunch, my laptop, a pair of walking shoes, and room for tissue wrapped purchases. When I get to the car my hands are free to reach for my keys in an easily accessible pocket. “Was it possible?” I threw out to the universe.
It started with a trip to Nordstroms. I came across a well heeled super sleek Tory Burch tote and instantly fell in love: tory burch basket weave tote. It was nicely structured with a large opening, long handles that do not flap, side pockets that make it easy to reach for keys, wallet and sunglasses. The problem was I was at Nordstroms for something else. I needed a carry-on for an upcoming trip and found this which I also fell in love with the MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote. So I put the Tory Burch tote bag down, looped around and came back to see what it looked like over my shoulder, sideways in the mirror. I loved it, but buying both bags seemed impulsive and pricey. I left Nordstroms with the extra large metro tote, leaving the Tory Burch tote behind.
Lo and behold, a few weeks later the universe answered back. The Tory Burch tote came up on my newsfeed at 20% off! Without looking back I bought the bag in the neutral color and I’m so happy I did.
I was recently in my favorite neighborhood bakery. It’s small, smells delicious, always crowded and runs at a fast pace, especially right before holidays. I purchased many baked goods for a weekend full of events, all packaged in boxes of 3 different sizes. Slipping the tote off my shoulder I said “I don’t need a bag, you can stack them in here.” Effortlessly I opened the tote to reveal a compartment large enough for the middle sized box to lay flat with two smaller boxes on top. I felt the gaze of the other shoppers looking at me putting bakery goods into a designer bag. The loaded tote fit snugly over my shoulder as I effortlessly scooched through the customers carrying a large box of croissants. “I’m going right home,” I said to the woman eyeing my bag. “The inside is really easy to keep clean,” and thanked her for holding the door open. Walking to my car, the tote over my shoulder, trench coat open, I easily placed the boxes in the trunk of my car. I have so many bags but all I need is one. The tote bag is having its day and this chic bag lady is going right along with it.
Allington Straw Tote
Logo hardware punctuates the top handles and strap of this sturdy straw tote with a lined interior and a detachable pouch to keep small essentials organized.
Large Woven Straw Tote
We designed this structured and sturdy raffia tote to hold all your beach and poolside essentials. Wide side gussets and bottom panel mean you can layer on the towels, water bottles and beach read while maintaining that coastal cool.
Marseille tote in open-weave straw
In breezy straw, this slightly structured, extra-polished tote is the perfect accessory for lunch dates to errands.
Crosby Drawstring Bucket Bag
With an easy (and secure) drawstring closure and exterior pocket, the Crosby Drawstring Bucket Bag is a go to versatile option. Made from our sustainable and lightweight REC nylon and featuring three different straps you can mix, match, and adjust it to suit your style.
Crosby Shoulder
For your essentials, essentially. Featuring REC Oxford nylon, a zip top closure and three customizable strap options.
Metro Crossbody
Go hands-free with the Metro Crossbody. With an adjustable strap, external pocket and room for your phone, keys, sunglasses and more, it’s about to become the go-everywhere, get-it-all-done bag you’ve been looking for.
Deluxe Large Metro Tote
Designed to do (even) more, the Large Metro Tote Deluxe adds new, innovative features to our best-selling Metro Tote silhouette. With a luggage sleeve, two exterior slip pockets, two zippered collar pockets and a removable, adjustable crossbody strap, it’s ready for the airport, the office, the gym — and wherever else your day takes you.