https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:02:54 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1812106 Thu, 01 Jun 2017 15:34:57 +0000 Liz A. 1812106@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Gail, no I haven't tried Henri bendel. That can be an aspirational bag for me </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1812066 Thu, 01 Jun 2017 12:00:53 +0000 Gail 1812066@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm late to this thread but have you looked at Henri Bendel? I have two of the Jet Setter bags large size and am happy. No finds but here is the link<br /><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.henribendel.com/us/handbags-2/">http://www.henribendel.com/us/handbags-2/</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1811927 Wed, 31 May 2017 17:43:36 +0000 Liz A. 1811927@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just wanted to follow up in case anyone was interested.</p> <p>I ended up trying the MZ Wallace Medium Sutton in the two-tone blue and black. &nbsp;It was a nice bag, but didn't really feel me for some reason. &nbsp;Plus, it was either too small or the shape just wasn't right to accommodate my enormous work laptop. &nbsp;So it went back.</p> <p>Then, I tried the Frye Melissa shoulder bag. &nbsp;Was lucky enough to get it on deep discount. &nbsp;I haven't actually put it to use yet, but so far just trying it around the house, I think it may be a keeper. &nbsp;I don't think it's the one tote to rule them all lol, because it doesn't have an outside pocket, and it's a little heavy. &nbsp;But my Longchamp got water stains or something on it, so it needs a break </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1804143 Mon, 01 May 2017 22:12:41 +0000 Barbara Diane 1804143@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>If you have a TJ Maxx nearby I second the suggestion of looking in both the purse and luggage sections. I have seen Tumi totes there, and LePilage also, and many other brands.&nbsp;<br />I also love my LePilages, and would love an extra inside pocket or two.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1804098 Mon, 01 May 2017 20:36:42 +0000 Liz A. 1804098@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, again cherylm and minimalist.</p> <p>I hope other readers are enjoying all the good advice on this thread as well. &nbsp;I still haven't committed to anything, but I am terrible at making decisions. &nbsp;I always want the "one x to rule them all" and can't seem to settle for just ticking most of the boxes.</p> <p>When I said I wanted something that stays upright, I meant in the way that the Le Pliage does... not completely upright but just so that it doesn't fall on its side causing everything to spill out the top.</p> <p>Right now I'm leaning towards towards the Dooney I mentioned upthread. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1804075 Mon, 01 May 2017 19:41:34 +0000 minimalist 1804075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>For structure and a lot of pockets, there's this:<br /> <a href="https://www.betabrand.com/commuter-tote-bag-womens.html" rel="nofollow">https://www.betabrand.com/comm.....omens.html</a></p> <p>It's very casual and won't collapse elegantly when there's less in it. </p> <p>Haven't seen it in person. Betabrand's construction of "work" items often tends toward gearish. </p> <p>But it might suit someone's bag needs.</p> <p>(Also: why do they show it with shoes shoved directly into interior pockets. Doesn't she walk on the ground with those things?) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1804023 Mon, 01 May 2017 18:00:09 +0000 cherylm 1804023@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Liz A. I have the sable color. It is not at all structured - so if you want a tote that will stand up when set down, the Cuyana is not for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803751 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 23:06:40 +0000 Liz A. 1803751@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you all for the tips. &nbsp;I hope I'll get something soon. &nbsp;</p> <p>Elpgal, I have been thinking about <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.tumi.com/p/small-m-tote-0494762CDT">this one</a>. &nbsp;I'm worried that the width might not allow it to stay upright when I set it down. &nbsp;I would really love something that stands up on its own. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803732 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:04:30 +0000 Gaylene 1803732@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, my one tote to rule them all is my Fjallraven tote, which I've raved about before. Comes in two sizes; can be used as a hand, shoulder, or backpack, and is offered on a wide variety of colours. YLF Finds feature does not work for Amazon because the tote gets classified as gear? </p> <p>Anyway, here's a quick review:<br /> <a href="https://practicaltravelgear.com/fjallraven-totepack-2/" rel="nofollow">https://practicaltravelgear.co.....otepack-2/</a></p> <p>My Pilage bag now often gets folded and stuffed inside for shopping on my way home because I can easily flip my Fjallraven into its backpack mode, then carry my Le Pilage. I frequently get stopped by other women who get intrigued when I suddenly convert my tote into a backpack. Three flight attendants who were deadheading back to Vancouver wouldn't let me board until I showed them how the tote works. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803723 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 20:31:26 +0000 elpgal 1803723@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I considered the Le Pliage but ended up with the Tumi Voyageur because it is slightly more structured. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803686 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 16:11:10 +0000 Suz 1803686@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>[Threadjack] -- <b>Smittie</b>, I totally share your love of luggage!! Looking at it alone is so much fun. I guess it holds so much promise, right? I am sure this feeling accounts for some of the popularity that Louis Vuitton bags enjoyed for a while...they hearkened back to old-style travel trunks. Dooney and Burke stuff has a bit of that "traveller" look also.&nbsp;</p> <p><b>Janet,</b> that is great to hear about the Briggs and Riley tote. I have the carry on and the larger suitcase. We <b>FINALLY</b> bought them this year after years and years of heavy travel with our other bags -- my so-called carry on was too big for regulation yet I lugged it with me everywhere for a dozen heavily travelled years. Given the amount of travel we do, we decided to splurge on this luggage and I have no regrets. I may look into the tote and the toiletries bag as well.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803679 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 15:38:11 +0000 Anonymous 1803679@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes, Janet. I wonder if it looks too much like luggage. I have to say, I have a huge weakness for luggage and seek out opportunities to buy more of it, or get other people to buy it.<br /> I don't know why! I barely travel. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803676 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 15:31:43 +0000 Janet 1803676@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a burgundy Briggs and Riley tote with a matching rolling carry-on, and I love it. Probably my best luggage purchase ever. I don't carry it day-to-day, just use it for travel (it's a little overkill for my personal day to day use), but it has held up beautifully with rugged use. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803673 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 15:22:00 +0000 Suz 1803673@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I don't have the Briggs and Riley tote but I do have their luggage and love it.&nbsp;</p> <p>By the way, I tried the Isobel with my 13 inch computer and it worked brilliantly -- not struggle at all to get the computer into the bag.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803671 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 15:16:38 +0000 Anonymous 1803671@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Here is one from Briggs and Riley, a luggage brand.<br /> This is a Well-loved brand by travelers and has a very good warranty.<br /> I don't have first-hand experience with this particular item, but it has the outside pocket you're looking for, and looks like a LePliage.<br /> <a href="https://www.canadaluggagedepot.ca/products/briggs-and-riley-kinzie-street-collection-horizontal-tote?utm_medium=cpc&#038;utm_source=googlepla&#038;variant=19060847109&#038;gclid=CjwKEAjwlpbIBRCx4eT8l9W26igSJAAuQ_HGWtwXjw65pv3n5CbP3Pk4O7uwcqhVTd0UCnAFggvQgxoCvA3w_wcB" rel="nofollow">https://www.canadaluggagedepot.....oCvA3w_wcB</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all/page/2#post-1803658 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 14:45:25 +0000 K.M. 1803658@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>cherylm, thank you! Which color you have? I have been dreaming of a tote like this for ages and this is the first I see that fits what I had in mind. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1803641 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 14:20:55 +0000 cherylm 1803641@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have one with a zipper. The leather is soft but I wouldn't describe as buttery. But soft enough that it collapses against your body - that is one of the things I like about it. It is sturdy enough to take wear and tear. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1803638 Sun, 30 Apr 2017 14:05:32 +0000 K.M. 1803638@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>cherylm, I didn't know about this Cuyana brand. Wow, those totes look beautiful. Is the leather as buttery as it looks on the photos? Do you have the one with or without a zipper? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802983 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 11:23:08 +0000 viva 1802983@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a large nylon Tumi tote with adjustable straps and just the right amount of pockets for me. It's been a workhorse since I got it, last summer I think? I just looked on their site and they don't seem to have this model any more, but it might be worth checking the brand. Super-reliable. (Great-looking too.)</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802982 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 11:16:55 +0000 Suz 1802982@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Liz,</b> I would test it with the 15" computer just in case. I put my 13" in a slip case and put it inside. Admittedly, it's a bit more awkward to do this than it is with a tote, since I have to put it in vertically and then shift it to horizontal position (due to the smaller opening of the bag). Yet it works better than I had feared. I'm about to try this with the smaller white bag today. Crossing fingers.&nbsp;</p> <p>Recall, though, I am short and even more importantly, a bit short waisted. The 8 or 9 inch drop on the Bryn is perfect for me to tuck it securely beneath my arm -- even wearing a coat. But I do adore this non slipping aspect and the way the strap stays put (unlike the Pliage, whose straps I like for their strength but not slipping).&nbsp;</p> <p>I fear the smaller Isobel bag is a bit short in the strap even for me. This is not such a huge problem since I also need a bag for days when I don't have the computer, so I will keep it -- but again, I am wishing I'd pounced on the white Bryn when it was available and I may keep eyeing ebay for a cheaper than $760 version (yes, that is what they were charging for one I saw on there!)&nbsp;</p> <p>Having said all I've said in defence of hobos, I also really love totes and for much commuting I do think they are the ideal option. The MZ Wallace look worth investigating to me. What I do love about the lack of structure of the hobo is that it is eminently adaptable. I really can carry more in mine and nothing gets lost. The only thing I wish it had was a key clip (but I added one). I put my sunnies and other odds and ends in zip pouch, phone in the unzipped pouch (plus transit pass in other side -- SUPER easy access for me) and the rest in little bags (eg cosmetics) or simply in the bag. I also worried about the magnetic closure not being secure enough but because it is tucked under my arm at all times, this is a non-issue.&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802980 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 10:56:51 +0000 Staysfit 1802980@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>MZ Wallace! That's my vote. I use them for my work totes, and have never had any problems. The quilted bags don't have as many pockets so be wary and read the descriptions carefully. The quilted bags are also very lightweight, probably the lightest bags I own. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802954 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 06:23:31 +0000 cherylm 1802954@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Liz A - I think I have the Hayley Bradford. It wears like iron. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802939 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 03:02:24 +0000 unfrumped 1802939@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm reading along as am in the market for a really great car and plane travel<br /> tote bag and would also use for work. I keep reading the related posts.<br /> I think I like pockets rather than single compartment with organizers- for several reasons sorted out over that years.<br /> But I know I hate it when double straps flop and fall off shoulder. I have several handbags of the " shopper" shoulder strap type- these are my fave style- and it seems unpredictable to me which straps turn out to behave. Some you can tell in - store and others turn on you later. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802931 Fri, 28 Apr 2017 02:24:18 +0000 K.M. 1802931@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Liz A., yes, I have a problem. At my worst I've carried bag, tote, and insulated lunch bag. It's terrible. I'm working on it!</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802837 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 21:05:01 +0000 Liz A. 1802837@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>ummlila and cherylm, which MZ Wallace bags do you have?</p> <p>cheryl, yes, what were they thinking with that zipper flap??!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802821 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 20:06:56 +0000 cherylm 1802821@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Following this question with interest as I am always on the search for the perfect tote bag that closes at the top - preferable with a zipper rather than a magnetic closure. I have the Le Pilage Neo which is a good bag but lacks an outside pocket and the flap that goes over the zipper makes me crazy. I take it when I travel as it folds up nicely to put in a suit case and it doesn't call attention as being an expensive bag, especially in Europe they are everywhere.<br /> I have a MZ Wallace bag that I used for over a year and it still looks brand new. I abandoned it because it had too many pockets, I couldn't ever remember what pocket had what in it. Ugh.<br /> I am currently using a Cuyanna leather tote. It has an inside pocket so my phone is easily accessed. I have had it for about a year and it is wearing well. Not lined on the inside so it does lint on the contents at first.<br /> I am eyeing the Shinola tote but whoa is it expensive. I am not nice to my bags. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802816 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 19:40:03 +0000 Janet 1802816@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This might be a sort of tangential suggestion, but I would take a look at Marshalls and TJMaxx -- I have found some really good (name brand) totes there for good prices. Usually when I'm not looking for one! I have a favorite that is so perfect for me -- one outer pocket, one inner pocket, light but sturdy, good straps... it's the one below. Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802787 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 17:29:46 +0000 Liz A. 1802787@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz, you are a very good saleswoman. &nbsp;I am now strongly considering that Bryn bag. &nbsp;I would LOVE a hobo if it could work with my laptop, because of the single strap (less chance of sliding off, which the Le Pliage does do).</p> <p>I almost pulled the trigger on <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.colehaan.com/dillan-hobo-mineral-red/U01991.html?dwvar_U01991_color=Mineral%20Red&amp;dwvar_U01991_width=#cgid=womens_handbags_satchelsshoulder&amp;start=10">this Cole Haan bag</a> when it was on sale, but I ended up deciding the color would not have longevity for me, and the strap felt a smidge short. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802782 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 17:17:53 +0000 kkards 1802782@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>seconding Diane...anything MZ Wallace....seriously...designed by women for women....and almost everything has tons of pockets --i have spent some quality time with my sisters testing them in there SOHO store...with the main determinate being an outside pocket for Metro Card. they are expensive, but IMO hold up really well. I own both of the finds... and most of there bags come in various sizes </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-one-tote-to-rule-them-all#post-1802771 Thu, 27 Apr 2017 16:44:34 +0000 Suz 1802771@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have a Le Pliage and agree with you about its advantages and disadvantages.&nbsp;</p> <p>I have always (thought that I) preferred structured bags (like totes and satchels) and the Le Pliage, while nice, &nbsp;doesn't look as good unfilled as mostly filled, in my opinion. Yet it's so light! And fits so much!! And doesn't get damaged by the rain! But I want a few pockets!!! Arggggh!!! What's a woman to do?&nbsp;</p> <p>Well, I went out and bought a crazy hobo! I hemmed and hawed and doubted my sanity.&nbsp;</p> <p>Turns out it works better for me than I ever could have expected. I LOVE this bag. It fits my (13") laptop plus a sweater, plus a water bottle, plus a book, plus wallet, plus, plus, plus. But if I empty it of all but a phone and wallet, it collapses into itself and looks small and sleek somehow. (How? I don't know. It's a miracle). It fits under my arm and has a nice wide strap. The length of the strap, that some complained of, is actually an advantage to me -- it is not *too* long. More balanced (for me).&nbsp;</p> <p>Plus, it has phone pocket and zippered pocket inside, which is all I really need.&nbsp;</p> <p>I just bought a similar white bag for summer. It's not quite as large and would not work for a 15" computer but should fit mine okay. It's not as great a style for me but I got it cheap on ebay. Unfortunately, I could not get the Bryn in white -- I waited too long and they were gone.&nbsp;</p> <p>ETA, I <b>HATE</b> sliding straps with a fury that surpasseth all, and my Bryn bag has never, ever slid, <b>NEVER</b>. This is one reason I adore it. I also adore its soft soft texture, which I literally pet.&nbsp;</p> </p>