Sorry Tom, we think you’re wrong: capacious bags are certainly chic, and these 9 prove just that

XL tote bag compliation

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Sorry Tom, we think you’re wrong: capacious bags are certainly chic, and these 9 prove just that

By Lauren Cunningham

2 years ago

All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article

3 min read

In favour of the trusty tote, we’re taking a stand against that Succession scene. 

For those who are fans of Succession, and maybe even some who aren’t, you’ll be familiar with the blunder surrounding one character’s bag that has the internet running wild. But we have a few things to say about Tom’s fierce words over this alleged fashion faux pas.

If you haven’t yet watched the show, let us set the scene. Bridget is brought as Greg’s date to his uncle Logan’s birthday party – one of their many sophisticated soirées – and strapped to her shoulder is the Burberry small vintage check two-handle title bag. A luxury label for an overly lavish family event – perfect, right? 

Apparently not, as the “small” name on the bag seems to be a little misleading, and its “capacious size” caused Tom great offence. “What’s even in there, huh? Flat shoes for the subway? Her lunch pail? I mean, Greg, it’s monstrous. It’s gargantuan. You could take it camping. You could slide it across the floor after a bank job,” he says of poor Bridget’s bag. And we simply won’t stand for it.

As author Amy Odell shared on Instagram, the mega-rich may not need to swap shoes for a comfortable commute home, and we doubt they’ll be needing to carry around laptops, water bottles or a packed lunch either. But for the rest of us, few things are as failsafe as a trusty tote, and we’ve found nine other options in case that near £2,000 Burberry one is out of budget. 


Mango leather shopper bag

Mango leather shopper bag

If real leather is what you’re looking for, this stylish suede pick is just perfect. With thin straps, be sure not to carry anything too heavy, but it will work wonders when paired with blue jeans.

Shop Mango leather shopper bag, £59.99

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Allsaints Allington straw tote bag

Allsaints Allington straw tote bag

Few bags are better for spring and summer than straw. But bringing an edge in a way only Allsaints knows how, this black and beige option will work all year round, especially with its two-length handles.

Shop Allsaints Allington straw tote bag, £119

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White Stuff metallic leather tote

White Stuff metallic leather tote

Just like silver trousers and shoes, silver bags are having a bit of a moment, and this slouchy White Stuff one may be our favourite find.

Shop White Stuff metallic leather tote, £99

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H&M large shopper

H&M large shopper

In a slick black shade, few bags can beat this one on subtle style, and there’s more than enough room for all the essentials.

Shop H&M large shopper, £29.99

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New Look green embossed towelling large tote bag

New Look green embossed towelling large tote bag

A towelling tote bag is built for the beach, pool or any hot holiday, and this gorgeous green option will be our perfect plane accompaniment.

Shop New Look green embossed towelling large tote bag, £23.99

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Zara tote bag

Zara tote bag

With a more structured silhouette, this pick is perfect for any office environment. A laptop may be a squeeze, but a water bottle, change of shoes and a handful of snacks are sure to slot in just fine.

Shop Zara tote bag, £25.99

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& Other Stories large leather-trimmed canvas tote

& Other Stories large leather-trimmed canvas tote

A canvas bag can never go amiss. Trimmed with leather, this one’s set to be even more sturdy.

Shop & Other Stories large leather-trimmed canvas tote, £75

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Free People Sid slouchy vegan tote

Free People Sid slouchy vegan tote

In a slouchy shape, this bag is best for those laidback days, whether crammed with clothes, gym kit or that all-important lunch pail.

Shop Free People Sid slouchy vegan tote, £88

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Glassworks burgundy high-shine PVC tote bag

Glassworks burgundy high-shine PVC tote bag

To bring the daytime bag into the evening, a shiny slick of PVC is sure to do the trick.

Shop Glassworks burgundy high-shine PVC tote bag, £75

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Images: courtesy of brands

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