In the age of summer Fridays and long weekends, most of us need a great summer tote that can go from the office to off-duty activities with a moment’s notice. More laid-back and colorful than their winter counterparts, summer totes must be roomy, sturdy and of course, playful. I’ve rounded up my favorite carryalls of the season that effortlessly go with everything from the most serious sheath to a killer tropical print one-piece.

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Summer Denim Trends That Aren’t Jeans

Not-So Basic Blue


Beach bags don’t have to be oversized to be efficient. Opt for one like Prada’s small denim tote, which combines two of summer’s biggest trends—denim accessories and logo mania. The top handled tote has a sophisticated structure and oversized logo, but its white jean fabric and jaunty striped shoulder strap keep it casual enough to pair with a bikini and a straw hat.

Bohemian Rhapsody


Summertime is made for colorful pieces—and that includes a beach bag! Perfect with your smartest black dress or flowing caftan, Star Mela’s embroidered burlap tote makes a stylish summer statement. With room for towels or files and embellished with colorful embroidery, tiny mirrors and whimsical pom poms, this artful bag captures the season’s wanderlust spirit.

Woven Wonder


A straw bag is a summer staple, but some feel too beachy for even the most casual of offices. Enter Anthropologie’s Mafalda metallic straw tote. Its cool mix of natural raffia and metallic thread create a shimmery style that’s refined enough for work, but perfectly breezy for your weekend getaway.

Summer Stripes

Stripes were made for warm weather—and petal pink ones add a cheery vibe to Madewell’s summer transport tote. In canvas, it is wonderfully durable and its sturdy leather handles keep it office appropriate without losing an ounce of the season’s lighthearted vibe.