No modern capsule wardrobe is complete without a black tote bag. But while the term might conjure up images of flimsy canvas sacks, there is far more to the style than supermarket runs...
The versatile accessory is typically defined as a spacious, unfastened bag with longer shoulder straps that make it ideal for stuffing to the brim with all your essentials. However, plenty of fashion houses have modernised the shape with a singular strap or conveniently placed zip, and elevated the classic style by way of luxurious materials and embellishments.
It's up for debate what exactly makes for the best investment handbag, but it goes without staying that a version of a black tote will be somewhere on the list. Whether it's Bella Hadid's frequently worn Coach Brooklyn bag, Longchamp's iconic Le Pliage, or The Row's new it-girl Marlo, there's truly no end to how the accessory can be reimagined.
Although mini under-arm totes like the Chloé Paddington are enjoying a huge resurgence this year, stuffed XXL shoulder bags have been spotted on the runways of Miu Miu, Acne Studios and more in recent seasons—meaning there really are no rules when it comes to perfecting your black tote styling.
Acne Studios Spring/Summer 2026
But the main selling point of a black tote is its practicality. Few accessories will serve you quite as well throughout your lifetime, so it pays to invest in one that can be trusted to last and that you will never tire of.
From the best designer handbags on the market to expensive looking high street bags for everyday wear and reliable office bags, I've rounded up the very best black tote bags money can buy.
Shop The Best Black Tote Bags
Massimo Dutti makes some of the best leather accessories on the high street. Case in point: this perfectly sized everyday tote.
The hobo silhouette will never go out of style, and this Cos version comes at a great price point for leather.
Dragon Diffusion is having its moment this year, and this black version will serve you well year-round.
There's only one thing better than a leather tote—a suede tote.
This is a chic holdall that can work for both weekends away and busy shopping days.
It doesn't get much better than a black tote from The Row.
If you're after a high street option, this M&S bucket style can do no wrong.
Elegant and refined, this Smythson bag is ideal for work.
You'd be forgiven for mistaking this affordable H&M tote for a premium buy.
Not a fan of the oversized tote? The Paddington is calling your name—and it's only increasing in value and appeal.
Demellier is one of the MC UK team's favourite brands, and this expensive-looking tote is exactly why.
For a bag with less rigidity, Proenza Schouler has fused the bucket and tote shape for the perfect slouchy shoulder bag.
Studded bags are everywhere this season, and this option nods to the trend in a subtle way.
It doesn't get much more classic than a Le Pliage—a timeless favourite for good reason.
Perfectly structure and extremely spacious.
You can always rely on Zara for a trendy and affordable high street option.
I've been lusting after the timelessly cool Falabella for years, and I think now is the time to invest.
A favourite of Bella Hadid, the Coach Brooklyn has quickly become the it-girl tote of the year.
If I could only own one black tote, this Bottega option gets my vote.
Ralph Lauren has ranked as one of the most popular brands of the quarter, so there's no going wrong with this investment.
