Need suggestions on the perfect black tote!

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Jun 18, 2012
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I need to replace my black leather tote and looked through past threads on this topic but haven't been able to find the right one. Budget is $1500 but preferably less. I'd like new but am fine with like new preowned to meet the budget and /or if the bag is discontinued.

It has to be durable - it will be used most weekdays and placed in various spots such as under airplane seats

My must haves are structured, lightweight, a zipped center compartment, interior pockets, comfortable shoulder straps and the ability to hold a 13" laptop plus paperwork, wallet, a snack, etc. If it has side pockets for a water bottle or umbrella, all the better!

But I have to love the bag because I'll carry it a lot. So it must have style - I don't want a boring bag - a tastefully done design element like chain handles or quilting or an interesting flap or shape would be welcome. I prefer silver hardware and really want a beautiful rich leather (no saffiano) but am trying to be open to coated canvas. It's ok if it has some quiet branding but no monogrammed logos all over the bag.

Please help! I'm desperate because I haven't found the bag and have a right now need for this bag. Thanks for working with me and my list of needs to help me find the perfect tote! 😊 And if you have pictures of the bag in action or insights on how it wears, please share!
 
@catsinthebag - those are both gorgeous! The Lanvin would be perfect but I really need that center zip compartment for security and to keep my things organized. At minimum I need the tote divided into two sections.

The Burberry is so beautiful! But I wonder about the cloth sides getting dirty over time.

THANKS for the suggestions!!!!!
 
is the bamboo handle comfortable?

Yes, at least I find it so. I have 4 bamboo handle bags and considering a fifth.

It's a very organic material and fits perfectly into the hand. What's more, unlike leather it's easy to keep clean and stays strong.

The bag also has a shoulder strap of course :smile1:
 
Oops--forgot to mention that this is available in a beautiful dark gray (if you are open to grays)...

I love this one and I think the dark grey could be a very nice alternative to the expected black. Do these ever go on sale?

I was going to suggest a Gucci Black Bamboo Shopper - perfect in every way, except it $2550 :rolleyes:
Yea. I'm not at the point where I can bear to throw around a $2500 tote. LOL 😊

View attachment 3270982 Rebecca Minkoff but this may be too casual?

This looks great! I'm fashion schizophrenic?? (lol) and have a bit of a rocker feminine style so this would be a great option assuming the inside is organized. I tried to find it on the RM website but couldn't. Do you know the model name? Also, I've read on the forum that RM has quality issues. Anyone have perspective on whether this bag will last?
 
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I love this one and I think the dark grey could be a very nice alternative to the expected black. Do these ever go on sale?

I've seen some colors on sale, but uncertain whether phantom will. It's less expensive on the MCM world website. Another option is to get it through a dept store during one of their rewards event. There's one happening right now at Bloomies for Loyalists, but the 25% savings will be in the form of gift cards. Good luck deciding!
 
I love this one and I think the dark grey could be a very nice alternative to the expected black. Do these ever go on sale?





Yea. I'm not at the point where I can bear to throw around a $2500 tote. LOL [emoji4]







This looks great! I'm fashion schizophrenic?? (lol) and have a bit of a rocker feminine style so this would be a great option assuming the inside is organized. I tried to find it on the RM website but couldn't. Do you know the model name? Also, I've read on the forum that RM has quality issues. Anyone have perspective on whether this bag will last?


I found the RM tote on the Neiman Marcus website. I will also post a pic of the inside. Here are the specs and he online enquiries ref is NMS16_V2KTG

ImageUploadedByPurseForum1455375815.505734.jpgRebecca Minkoff pebbled leather satchel bag.
Silvertone hardware and long leather pulls.
Rolled top handles with rings.
Removable shoulder strap, 25" drop.
Angled front zip pockets and belted sides.
Zip top closure.
Inside, one zip and three open pockets.
Leopard-print fabric lining.
9"H x 16.5"W x 7.5"D.
Imported.
 
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