Toss the bulky hold-alls and crammed clutches back in your closet. HC's favorite handbag this spring is the multipurpose tote. From canvas shoppers to cheery color block bags or timeless leather, we’ve found a fit for every collegiette to tote.
Under $25
Eco-Chic (and Cheap)
For under $2 you can get a cute shopper tote, like this one in ‘Hearts’–and for $10 you could get enough to carry all your groceries in instead of flimsy plastic bags.
Forever 21, $1.50
Bag of Wit
If you’re always spouting off tongue-in-cheek phrases, check out alphabet bags™ totes. They’re big enough to hold your textbooks or act as an overnight bag.
Madewell, $23
Electric Feel
Don’t be shy–test out one of spring’s biggest trends—funky neons!—with this electric yellow canvas tote.
Nasty Gal, $25
Under $50
True Blue
This royal blue tote has a jacquard-like texture and a faux-leather feel. Toss it over your shoulder when you’re wearing this season’s high-collared blouses for a retro look.
ASOS, $35.81
Color Block Party
Neon and brown not a combo you’d sport? It’s surprisingly chic when paired with this color-blocked tote–and a low-cost option for a high-fashion trend.
Forever 21, $26.80
Around the World
Suffering from wanderlust these last few weeks of school? Inspired by American Apparel’s classic shopping bags is a tote you’ll swoon over.
American Apparel, $36
Pretty in Pastels
This tote’s Easter egg hues are balanced out by its vintage feel and faux leather straps. It’s roomy with sturdy weaving, so you don’t have to worry about it unraveling.
Urban Outfitters, $39
Double the Fun
Part satchel, part tote—this bag is for collegiettes who want a little bit of both. It’s big enough to hold your MacBook for class and perfect as a purse come nighttime.
Urban Outfitters, $59
The Last Straw
This chic, synthetic straw tote is a book-lugging bag by spring semester and intern-appropriate by summer.
Aldo, $48
Think Mink
Just because it’s spring doesn’t mean you have to overdose your wardrobe with color. This classic quilted tote in mink works every season, making it a staple.
Dorothy Perkins, $44
A Work of Art
Not into all those leather and canvas totes? You’ll love this floral tote in creamy pastels. And it might make you want to take up watercolor painting, just for fun.
Topshop, $32
Under $100
Rise & Shine
If the sparkly weaving isn’t enough to sway you into this purchase, it’s also incredibly durable and perfect for beach bumming come summer.
Victoria’s Secret, $50
Loud & Proud
Stand out with this bold print Marc Jacobs tote. This is a must-have for our label loving collegiettes—even if you only use it this season.
Marc Jacobs, $68
Shore Thing
This ‘Beach Bar’ bag lives up to its name with a summery feel, but its medium size and braided strap means it’s not limited to beach toting.
Zappos, $52
Wild Animal
Animal print junkies are bound to trade leopard for this sophisticated giraffe print tote. Its roomy inside and the chain-link strap makes it work for the dressier events in your future.
Dillard's, $59
Get Your Stitch Fix
Can’t get enough of woven stitching? This one in exotic print gets unexpected with a black, white, and pink medley, but is still perfect for all things casual.
Free People, $78
Under $250
Jet Set
Nothing to wear? This crisp white tote from Michael Kors isn’t only high quality, but we guarantee it’ll go with almost any outfit.
Endless, $228
Take a Daycation
Get preppy with this cotton poplin tote in classic Kate Spade bold and bright prints. It’s not quite a weekender, but can store enough for overnighters and daytrips.
Ebags, $148
Finders Key-Pers
This cotton canvas tote has a cute key hanging from the strap and is coated in bohemian vintage-inspired prints. Neat-freak collegiettes take note: there are two pencil slots and five pockets to store your goods.
Fossil, $128
Make a Splash
Dooney & Bourke updates their classic with paint-like splashes of blue, pink, orange, and purple. This tiny tote is for the collegiette with lighter loads—we recommend using it for your accessories.
Dooney & Bourke, $198.
