Tote-ally Iconic: The Fashion Evolution of Tote Bags Through the Decades

If there’s one bag that has truly stood the test of time, it’s the tote bag. From utility to high fashion, from bookshops to beach clubs, this humble yet mighty carryall has become an icon in its own right. But how did we get here? Let’s take a stroll down tote bag memory lane, from its practical beginnings to its undeniable status as a fashion must-have.

The 1940s: The Birth of the Tote

Before the tote was a statement piece, it was just a workhorse. The 1940s saw the launch of the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, originally designed to haul ice blocks (because refrigeration was still finding its way into every home). Made from heavy-duty canvas, it was sturdy, simple, and destined for greatness.

✨ Forget the ice blocks: our totes carry colour, confidence, and just the right amount of chaos.

The 1960s-70s: The Rise of Functional Fashion

By the 1960s, the tote bag had graduated from utility to fashion-forward accessory. The Bonnie Cashin Coach totegave the world a sleeker, more refined version, proving that a simple shape could also be chic. Meanwhile, the feminist movement of the 1970s embraced tote bags as statement pieces, with printed slogans like “A Woman’s Place is in the Revolution”. Totes weren’t just practical: they were political.

✨ Wear your values. Whether it’s a protest slogan or a bold block print, a tote always has something to say.

The 1980s-90s: Designer Domination

Enter the fashion elite. Luxury brands saw the endless potential of the tote, leading to iconic designs like the Louis Vuitton Neverfull and the Chanel Grand Shopping Tote. Meanwhile, New Yorkers were strolling around with The Strand’s literary tote, proving that style and substance could go hand in hand. And in Britain? The 90s saw totes become a staple of high-street cool, carried effortlessly by the likes of Kate Moss and early 2000s Brit It-girls.

✨ Luxury isn’t about a logo: it’s about owning something crafted with soul. That’s where Bombaby comes in.

The 2000s-Today: The Tote as a Lifestyle Icon

Totes today are everything. They’re sustainable, stylish, and have serious influencer cred. Whether it’s the New Yorker tote, a Goyard shopper, or a Bombaby quilted tote (yes, we’re claiming our rightful spot), the modern tote is a blend of craftsmanship and cool.

And let’s not forget Anya Hindmarch’s totes from the early 2000s - do you remember her photo-print bags that EVERYONE wanted? If you had one, you were officially in the cool crowd (and they went for wild money on eBay). Then came her “I’m Not a Plastic Bag” moment in 2007, which made sustainability stylish long before it was trendy.

When Louise Thompson from Made In Chelsea was spotted with our Blue Tiger Tote, it was proof that slow fashion can be just as covetable as the latest ‘It bag’.

And let’s talk bestsellers - our Neon Pink Chevron Tote isn’t just a bag, it’s an energy boost in accessory form. One customer put it best:
"I was a little hesitant to spend so much on a tote bag, but it’s so unique and I’m so happy with the quality. It also came beautifully wrapped and with a dust bag to keep it protected. Couldn’t fault anything."

Where Does Bombaby Fit in?

The tote bag has evolved from a workhorse to a wardrobe hero, and we’re here for it. Bombaby quilted totes are:
✔ Designed in-house with bespoke block prints
✔ Reversible (because why settle for one look?)
✔ Handmade with care and attention to detail
✔ Delivered in a matching dust bag - because we believe in beautiful things staying beautiful

The tote bag’s story isn’t over yet. But one thing’s for sure - whether you’re carrying books, groceries, or the weight of the world, a quilted Bombaby tote does it in style.

What’s your tote bag story? Drop us a comment or tag us on Instagram with your Bombaby in action. We love seeing how you carry a little piece of art every day. 💙✨