Oversized Tote Bags Are the New It Girl Accessory

The bigger the better.

Big bags are back, baby and honestly, we couldn’t be more thrilled. While the mini bag craze of 2022 saw us paring back our purse contents — forcing us to refine and redefine the concept of “essentials” — this swing to XXL-sized alternatives lets us lean into our stockpiling behaviours.

Want to bring a full change of clothes *just in case*? You got it. A few snack options to satisfy throughout the day? It’s no problem with these roomy carry-alls that also up the style factor. Take a cue from the colossally accessorised runways (3.1 Phillip Lim, Gabriela Hearst, Victoria Beckham and Stella McCartney included) and shop our top seven supersized options.

Little Liffner Tulip Shoulder Bag Large

The Tulip Tote — named for its delicately curved, botanical shape — has become something of a signature for Little Liffner, a Scandinavian leather goods brand with a sustainable mission. It’s function and form balanced in perfect measure.

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Mango Leather Shopper Bag

There’s very little you couldn’t fit in Mango’s accessibly priced leather shopper. Blessedly outfitted with a zippered top (for when you’d rather not let the world in on your most intimate possessions), it’s over 25 inches across so you can pack that gotta-have-it-but-highly-unnecessary extra item.

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Monos Metro Weekender

Know that feeling when you needed to be out the door five minutes ago and your various piles of accoutrements aren’t packed yet? That’s what Monos’ Metro Weekender is for. Made from a versatile vegan leather that can withstand all kinds of weather conditions, it boasts nearly 20 inches of interior space plus plenty of zippered compartments.

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Cult Gaia Freedie XL Shoulder Bag

Behold, a utilitarian bag that’s also not afraid to be all-out gorgeous. Cult Gaia’s extra-large, croc-embossed bucket bag goes deep on the storage, letting you make a statement and come completely prepared, no matter where you’re headed.

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The Row XL Idaho Bag in Cotton

A brand built on and beloved for its roomy proportions, The Row is also ace at designing bags made for real life. Case in point: the XL Idaho Bag in a textured cotton twill. The easygoing fabrication and snap closure lets you fly a little bit more under the radar.

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Boyy Bobby Weekend Soft

If you’re toting around a gigantic bag, it might as well come in an equally out-there colour. Luckily, this polished silhouette can take it: Boyy’s über-practical Bobby Weekend bag comes crafted in an elegant, supple leather that’s punctuated with a tonal buckle.

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Dragon Diffusion Check Tote

The perfect pick for an all-day beach excursion, Dragon Diffusion’s roomy tote is elevated with delicate strips of naturally dyed, hand-woven leather. Take it from the sand to the streets by folding it over then tucking it under your arm. So chic!

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This article first appeared in FASHION’s March 2024 issue. Find out more here.

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