The extra-large tote bags we’ll be buying for SS19

If you’re looking to invest in a new handbag, think BIG. For SS19, we’re pushing micro pouches aside and celebrating the return of spacious totes. Ladies, it’s time to switch our focus back to bigger (and better) things.

Wristlets are charming, but this season’s designers have adopted a more practical approach for spring. In the age of female hustlers, medium-sized handbags simply won’t suffice; large totes let us hold everything from heavy laptops, oversized makeup bags, and trusty keep cups.

On the spring catwalks, Alberta Ferretti was all about bohemian chic, showcasing oversized straw bags in soft buttery shades – perfect for throwing over your shoulder. Stella McCartney introduced monogramed styles in faint tinges of Nutella brown, Rejina Pyo gave us seriously summery vibes in polka dot prints and Jacquemus delivered colossal straw fringed totes in loud orange colours.

The good news is, you don’t need to spend a month’s salary on a fantastic handbag. This gorgeous (and ethically-made!) option from Zara is large enough to hold your beach towel and book when abroad, but will also store your workday essentials when the office is calling. Plus, it has a handy pocket for all your small accessories.

The reality is that large handbags triumph minaudières when practicality comes into question. From supersized totes and roomy shoppers, discover my edit of bags for busy days, and busier women.

Book bag, €2,398.12 at dior.comXXL Join Life tote bag, €39.95 at ZaraCanvas bag, Tom Ford, €690 at net-a-porter.comLeather shopper, €39.99 at MangoSnakeskin bag, €24.99 at BershkaOmbu tote, €495 at landabags.comLinen and leather bag, Saint Laurent, €890 at farfetch.comBag, €30 at riverisland.comShopper, €19.99 at H&MFalabella tote, Stella McCartney, €795 at Brown ThomasStripe shopper, €28.54 at AccessorizeLeather handbag, €69.95 at ZaraLeather bag, Marni, €990 at modaoperandi.com