Throw it all in.

... we're talking bags again.  Now this isn't something I need *punches air* but it is something that I find infinitely useful.  Plus I keep seeing loads of gorgeous ones around that I absolutely can't justify buying - so I am hoping that someone else is in need and can do some vicarious shopping for me. 

These are particularly handy at this time of year.  A Tote bag for throwing everything in, when the children are on holiday and you're going out for the day.  Now I didn't bring one with me and boy do I wish I had.  Trying to shove jumpers, drinks and the various stuffed animal that one of them insists on bringing, into my Prada bag is making my eyes water, to put it mildly.  They truly come into their own for travelling and when you're out an about on hols.

Mine is the tan Zara tote from years ago that everyone had which really has served me well to be fair although I did think the leather might soften, but no, it's still as stiff as the day I bought it.  Which is fine as, to be honest, it does make it easier to find stuff in.  But I can't roll it up to squeeze into a suitcase and I certainly prefer the look of the slouchier versions.

I also use it when not on holiday - mine gets used weekly when I'm taking the boys to football and all the kids to swimming.  It holds my laptop, a selection of snacks and drinks as well as the obligatory Kindle Fires to occupy the extra small child who isn't participating (there's always one spare one hanging around).  

These are good enough to use as a handbag as opposed to being an extra bag that you have to schlepp around.  And there happens to be a Price Match thingymajig at John Lewis so some of these are bargains. 

Although I'm going to start with my favourite which I have seen numerous times at Banana Republic and drool a little bit over ever time I go passed it.  If you haven't subscribed to BR before, you can sign up for their emails and get 15% off (or just use another email address - I'm sure that's not "allowed" but honestly, who wouldn't?!)

The Ashbury Tote - in python gold £79 for leather

Or white perforated version 




Though I may prefer the black £79 leather



Another black version although not in leather but a bargain from Mango with 30% off - now £17.49



Now this is a slightly different shape but I am loving the Dior look to this.   Although they call this a tote, I'm not entirely sure how big it is.... *covers arse*

Mango Quilted Tote £24.49 after 30% off 



John Lewis going bonkers with their Price Match and have 25% off at Warehouse 

Love love love this - would work with all your summer shoes and is easily gorgeous enough to use regularly as a handbag. 

Warehouse Colour Block Wide base handbag £30


Another beige version is available from White Stuff - love the pale shade of this and the shape - certainly looks leather. 

White Stuff Camille Shopper handbag in neutral £32.50



Navy grainy tote bag at John Lewis (not leather)   Yet again, the navy bag proves elusive to track down.



Slightly more expensive but this time in leather and having seen these in real life, I can confirm these are absolutely gorgeous.  The code AD199 will hopefully give you 20% off. 

Tall Leather Tote in Frost Grey from The White Company £155 





A silver version is also available from Jigsaw.  Actually I've changed my mind and I think I prefer these to the Banana Republic ones.   l love the slightly aged looked to them.

Ellie Tote Bag £129




Tan £129

Having said that, this Bottega Veneta inspired bag from FCUK has made me stop and have a feel every time I've seen it instore this season.   Currently with 20% off. 

FCUK Vita Tote bag in Kitten now £76








More leather from M&S - these are truly great and in a selection of slightly different colours. 

Leather Zip Hobo Bag form M&S £89 in red 


Also in white which is lovely for the summer £89



Orange from Autograph at M&S and this is absolutely stunning with a tiny nod to the designer Sophie Hulme for sure. 

Leather Shopper bag in burnt orange £129



Also two tone at M&S - a real classic look in a leather shopper.  Very Ralph Lauren to me. 

Leather Shopper Bag £89



But value wise, this leather tote from Collection WEEKEND Morgan bag by John Lewis gets my vote for £69 in tan.



Love the pink colour 



Also available in turquoise 



Or a classic black that would work all year round