Oh, how the mind veers. Oh, how trends polarise.

The micro bag descended into our realm not five years ago and when it did, we started realising that we didn’t need all the things that we used to carry around with us. Umbrellas? Hah, let’s run the rain. Wet wipes? What are we, babies? An extra cardigan for the cold? Nah, if freezing is a small sacrifice to make for carrying an itty bitty bag, so be it. These deliberately shrunk-down versions of the season’s most-wanted bags crawled their way into our hearts, making us truly separate the bag necessities from the excess-ories.

But, by and by, the micro bag finds itself having to share the mantle with its complete opposite: the giant tote bag. Its return was first hinted a little over a year ago, spearheaded by Balenciaga and Celine. These two labels didn’t quit with the upsizing in the seasons that followed. Then Dior, Saint Laurent and Prada joined, adding logomania into the mix to make things even better and the rest is history.

Giant tote bags can carry everything but the kitchen sink, but they don’t have to look like an afterthought. Go for clean lines, structure and statement details like logos and monograms, and opt for versatile straps that allow you to carry the bag on your shoulder and in your hand. These won’t fare well at a party, but to work? Onboard a plane? When you need errands done? It is okay to give in to your practical side sometimes.

Balenciaga Laundry Cabas S

Balenciaga Shopping Tote East West L

Dior Book Tote Bag in Embroidered Monogram Canvas

Gucci Leather and Suede Tote

JW Anderson Belt-Strap Leather Trimmed Tote

Prada Logo Print Plexi Tote

Saint Laurent Shopper Leather-Trimmed Printed Canvas Tote

Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Canvas Tote Bag

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