Handbag 101: The Difference Between Satchels Vs. Totes

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My two favorite kinds of bags are totes and satchels mainly because of their capacity to carry most of my everyday essentials. Even on a night about town, I still prefer to carry a large bag instead of the usual clutch or small handbag just because I can’t survive on lipstick, mobile, and wallet alone.

So, for all my fellow large handbag lovers out there, here is a little dose of handbag 101 — the tote vs. the satchel.

Traditionally speaking, a satchel became popular in the 1700s among schoolboys as a means of carrying books. It often comes with a cross-body strap worn diagonally across the body on the opposite hip. Man purse or satchel? The Hangover’s Alan Garner says, “it’s not a man purse, it’s called a satchel. Indiana Jones wears one!” Hear, hear!

A tote, on the other hand, is a large and unfastened bag that comes with double top handles. Most often referred to as a “carry-all” bag, the tote is traditionally made with sturdy materials like canvas and nylon with leather handles to be able to handle heavy load.

We chose to showcase totes and satchels in gray today as this shade makes a good contrast to this season’s colorful ensembles. Enjoy!

MICHAEL Michael Kors "Hamilton - Large" Saffiano Leather ToteMICHAEL Michael Kors “Hamilton – Large” Saffiano Leather Tote, $358

R&J "Jaymi" SatchelR&J “Jaymi” Satchel, $52.80

Marc by Marc Jacobs "Too Hot to Handle"Marc by Marc Jacobs “Too Hot to Handle”, $438

Topshop Faux Leather Mini SatchelTopshop Faux Leather Mini Satchel, $56

Big Buddha Faux Leather HoboBig Buddha Faux Leather Hobo, $95