Tote bags have always been a favourite for the fashion-forward due to their simplicity and versatility. For years, totes have been the go-to option for businesses and brands when it comes to creating a stylish bag that ticks all the boxes from being eco-friendly and durable to making an impact on customers.
As much as we all love these types of bags, do we really know much about them?
What Is A Tote Bag?
Tote bags are large bags used to carry (or tote) various items when travelling or out and about. The size of the bag can vary but the defining characteristic of the tote bag is its large opening at the top and the lack of fastenings. In fact, a tote bag typically has no closure just a pair of handles on either side of the bag that can be used for carrying.
Tote bags are a particularly popular choice for carry-on bags (hand luggage) and as a greener option to plastic carrier bags when shopping.
They are also available in various materials, including cotton, canvas and jute, and can be be plain or printed dependent on the look you are trying to achieve or the purpose of the bag.
What Is The Purpose Of A Tote Bag?
Tote bags are extremely versatile and offer many options when it comes to designs, colours, shapes etc.
The type of tote bag that you make, or buy, is dependent on the intentions of the owner and what purpose they want the tote bag to serve.
One very common use of tote bags is as grocery shopping bags because they are a sustainable and reusable alternative to disposable plastic bags. They can often be found at checkout points in supermarkets and retail stores and will usually have the company logo or name printed on one or both sides of the tote.
Tote bags can also serve as great everyday bags for weekend trips, days out, work, school, the gym and more. Their size, durability and style means that they can serve multiple purposes over the course of their life making them extremely useful and a worthwhile investment.
The History of the Tote Bag
Tote bags have been around since the 17th century but didn’t get their official name of ‘Tote’ (which means to carry) until two centuries later.
In the mid-1990s, they reached the height of their popularity after being released as the iconic Boat Bag by a major apparel company.
The original purpose of the tote bag was to carry ice on outings before it became a staple accessory in the completion of chores and errands among housewives evolving into what it is today.
As it stands now, tote bags are more than just a fashion statement, or a functional everyday accessory. They have become synonymous with sustainability offering consumers an eco-friendly and affordable bag option that will help protect the planet.
What Are Tote Bags Made From?
Tote bags can be made from any number of materials; the most common being cotton, canvas and linen. However, as we continue to innovate and discover new, eco-friendly materials the options for your tote bag continue to expand.
We offer a wide range of sustainable materials that our tote bags can be made from including hemp, jute, NWWP, Pinatex™, Denim and so much more. You can explore our full range of options and learn more about bags here