It’s the end of summer, which means it’s almost fall time(!). Back to school - back to work, back to a solid routine is just around the corner and of course, fall fashion.

Almost 8 years ago, I bought my black Balenciaga tote bag and it has been my workhorse ever since. For starters, it fits my laptop and a pair of shoes which is valuable, if you are commuting. It’s narrower than it is wide, which can pose a little bit of an issue when accessing belongings at the bottom of the black bag. Yet, if in a crowded space it’s also great for the safety of your valuables. The thick leather is a tad bit heavy, but it has taken a beating over the years without breaking down.Looking for a great tote for your life’s adventures? Here are my top selects that can take you from the office to the outdoors, sorted by material:

Leather:

You really can’t go wrong with a leather bag. If you are wondering - Yes, it’s worth the investment. Leather bags can stand the test of time, being both fashionable and functional. In fact, over time, the leather can get soft and supple with use. The Kingly Tote by Smythson comes in super soft, Pavilion leather making it an ideal bag to roll up in your suitcase. The Pavilion leather is lightweight and flexible with a suede underside, not requiring a liner. Like their paper shopping bags, the Kingly is found in their iconic Smythson signature Nile Blue. Strathberry’s S Cabas has comfortable thick shoulder straps and a zippered top closure. The side pocket helps to keep things organized and it’s adorned with the S logo and gold-tone hardware. Shown in Bottle Green, it is available in 2 other classic colorways including tan and black.The Rebecca Minkoff Edie Maxi Tote will be your next staple in this go-with-everything Sand Dune colorway. The quilted leather chevron pattern can bring a subtle texture to any outfit.  The antique brass metal chain shoulder straps and magnetic snap-fastening in front add a touch of glam. 

Leather and Canvas: The best of both worlds. A tote in both leather and canvas gives you the durability of leather with the semi-casualness of canvas. Don’t forget that wax coated canvas functions well in rain.The Viator Tote in Gray/Tan by Portland’s Orox Leather can function as both a weekend getaway or a work briefcase. The travel strap along the side of the bag secures it to your trolley suitcase; while the interior sleeve helps keep 13-inch laptops and documents secure.  Since the early 70's, Roots has been designing and manufacturing high quality leather goods.  The brand itself holds a special spot in my heart, as a staple of my childhood. Sticking to its roots (pun intended) the Roots Canvas French Tote wasdesigned and handcrafted in Toronto, Canada. It’s the quintessential tote, fully lined with two handy front pockets.Never lose your keys again with the helpful D-ring inside the bag, keeping easy-to-lose items near the top.This roomy Kate Sheridan Waxed Canvas Tote is found on the curated online site, TOAST. It’s made from waxed British cotton canvas. Though the bag is quite generous at 19 inches in width, you can use the press studs at the sides to adjust the shape. 

Woven: Looking for something as functional as leather without the price point? These woven bags are a great way to carry a large number of belongings and accent your outfit at the same time. Practical tip - woven bags do not draw in extra heat in humid conditions. Keeping traditional hand block stamping alive, this Pink City Prints Bubblegum Daisy Travel Bag is a fun way to add some pattern into your outfit.The cotton base is structured enough to stand upright, perfect for your next picnic in the park or beach day.Anything tweed, like this Urban Revivo Tweed Tote Bag in blue checkered pattern is Fall fashion at its best. Think school-girl cool. This highly structured tote will let you keep all things safe – from paper to take out boxes which can open at a moment's notice. What’s a tote roundup without one straw bag? The Artesano Inca tote bag is made with a 100% natural toquilla straw. Not your typical straw bag, this 15-inch square tote is accented by beautiful frayed edge details. Available in 4 pops of color.

Utility: Here are the true workhorses of the group. In the vein of the blue IKEA shopping bags (you know the one!), just more fashionable. These are the bags that you can throw around and still look great at the end of the day. What do you call a cross between a backpack and a tote? The Cotopaxi Todo Convertible 16L Tote - Cada Día. Carry it by the shoulder straps, or tuck them in when using the tote handles.Its padded 15-inch laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined pocket makes sure valuables are protected.Like most Baggu bags, the Travel Cloud Bagconveniently packs into its own detachable interior pouch to take along your adventures. The shoulder and handle straps give you options on how to carry and the recycled heavyweight nylon makes it extremely durable. Part of the new F.A.R. (For All Routes) outdoor travel collection from AWAY, this F.A.R. 45L Tote is an organized way to stash all your essentials for work or play. The bag itself is made from lightweight, high-strength polyester and the webbing top cinch closure adjusts to how much you pack. As an added bonus, it meets requirements for most major airlines as carry-on luggage.