Design Notes - Totes, what makes a Tote bag? This blog piece talks you through the history of the Tote

What makes a Tote a Tote?

Totes are defined as large, roomy bags with high sides and handles on either side to easily access your items. They can be open or closed with poppers or zip fastenings. 
 
The origins of the Tote bag date back to 17th Century Virginia when the word was used as a verb 'to carry' or 'to transport'. The word 'Tote Bag' was first recorded in 1900!

It's long been said that the first commercial Tote bag was created by LL Bean in the 1940's as a way to comfortably carry large chunks of ice into youer home. 

Today, Totes are your carry-all best friend, a bag that will never let you down, the ultimate multitasker. Ours come in various sizes and some carry your laptop too, but all have been designed to help organise and get to your everyday essentials easily. 


Model in white holding the Saskia Tote in front of her


The Saskia Tote is beautifully hand-woven, bringing a tactile finish to a timeless silhouette. Chic yet practical, this soft woven tote bag is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and perfectly sized for everyday essentials. With its artisanal weave and effortless style, Saskia is the ideal companion for workdays, weekends, or relaxed summer outings. Internally, Saskia has a removeable '2-in-1' zipper pouch that can be used on it's own or as an internal pouch to keep your belongings secure. 

Model wearing a Connie Laptop Tote over her shoulder
Meet Connie, our updated laptop tote that perfectly balances practicality with chic styling. Designed to discreetly carry your laptop, Connie is cleverly disguised as a sophisticated everyday tote, making her the ideal companion for both work and leisure. Her central compartment is lined with protective soft material and fits a laptop measuring H31cm x W23cm x D1cm. As well as this, Connie has a zipper pocket, a slip-in pocket and a clip for you to attach your keys to. Connie is elevated by the Cannon Street clasp, a distinctive Luella Grey signature that adds a sculptural finish

Model holding an Indra Tote in front of herModel holding a camel Indra Tote Bag
Discover Indra, our new sleek bucket bag designed with both style and practicality in mind. The refined silhouette is complemented by a textured front pocket that adds a touch of luxe while providing easy access to your essentials. Indra offers versatility with the option to carry her by her grab handle for a polished daytime look or wear crossbody for hands free ease. Spacious yet refined, Indra has three roomy compartments as well as smaller zipper and slip-in pockets.

Line drawing of the Roxy Tote
Say hello to Roxy, the structured tote designed to balance elegance with everyday functionality. With her clean lines and considered proportions, Roxy offers three roomy compartments as well as an internal zipper and slip-in pocket to keep everything beautifully organised. Versatility is at the heart of her design. Carry Roxy by her sleek grab handles for a classic look or wear her crossbody for ease on the go. The design is completed with the beautiful Cannon Street clasp, a signature Luella Grey detail that adds a sculptural, statement finish.

The Giselle Laptop Tote is an elegant multi-compartment tote thoughtfully designed to carry a laptop that measures length 31.5cm, height 23cm, depth 2cm as well as all your work essentials. Available in classic Black, Camel and Peat, combined with our new luxurious canvas material, Giselle is a modern bag for the modern woman. 




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