Combining timeless charm and functional design, Cuyana has elevated the tote bag to a cult-status accessory. These spacious, stylish bags make the perfect travel companion too.
The Small Easy Tote (Photo: Cuyana)
Female-founded Cuyana has built the age-old mantra “less is more” into its business model, with a commitment to offering “fewer, but better” collections. This approach doesn’t just relieve potential customers of the tyranny of choice presented by most brands, but it’s more sustainable too. Bags are meticulously crafted from the finest Italian leather and designed to last a lifetime in both style and durability. The brand’s Lean Closet Program allows users to exchange gently used items for credit too. Hoping to join the likes of Meghan Markle and Angelina with a stylish tote? We’ve compared five of the Cuyana’s most iconic tote bags.
Small Easy Tote
At just 10.6 inches high and 18 inches wide, the Small Easy Tote is Cuyana’s didiest (and cheapest) bag. That’s not to say it’s impractical though. While it may be small, the interior is spacious enough to fit a standard 13-inch laptop – and then some. Crafted from lightweight feels-like-butter leather, the bag features no hardware or synthetic lining, which makes for a cleaner, simpler design. It’s also compatible with a wide range of add-on accessories, including an airpod case, small zipper pouch and slim wristlet wallet for extra organisation. The bag is available in a wide range of classic colours and seasonal shades. From $248.
Classic Structured Leather Tote
Classic structured tote (Photo: Cuyana)
This is the original Cuyana tote and, almost a decade after its inception, the Classic Structured Leather Tote is still a best-seller. Available in caramel blush, black blush and cappucino, the bag is made from soft Italian leather with a pebbled texture that only gets better with age. The interior is fully lined in contrast microsuede and features interior ties that can be looped into a bow. The softly structured silhouette maintains its shape to give a more polished and refined look that works in any scenario – be it on the plane or on a night out. From $268
Tall Easy Leather Tote
For a modern twist on the traditional tote, there’s the Tall Structured Leather Tote. Crafted from premium leather with a pebbled texture, the bag is airy and unstructured, offering plenty of space to cram your most prized possessions. For those with longer or shorter arms, there’s an adjustable strap sold separately. As well as the standard dark coral, cappuccino, caramel, stone and olive colours, the bag comes in dark coral, biscuit, sage and terracotta, making it the perfect option for those looking to add a pop of colour to their wardrobe. The bag is available with or without a zipper. From $268.
Classic Easy Zipper Tote
Classic Easy Zipper Tote (Photo: Cuyana)
Crafted with Cuyana’s famed meticulous attention to detail, the Classic Easy Zipper Tote is shorter than the original, with an added easy-to-use zipper closure to keep your belongings secure. Straps and add-on accessories, like flap bags and tote inserts, are available to purchase separately. It’s the ideal option for those looking for a bag that combines the easygoing aesthetic of a tote with the security of a traditional handbag. Suitable for both day and night, it’s a versatile accessory for modern women on the go. Like the Tall Easy Leather Tote, the bag is available in upbeat colours like biscuit, sage and terracotta for added oomph. From $298.
System Tote 16-inch
A favourite office companion, the Cuyana System can comfortably hold everything from a laptop to a change of clothes. The bag is billed as “the first and only bag of its kind”, thanks to a built-in snap system of add-on accessories that include adjustable straps, laptop sleeves, flap bags and zipper pouch inserts (all available in a variety of colours), which means it can adapt to the wearer’s unique needs. Even if you don’t fancy splashing out on more pockets, there’s plenty of storage space for the average user, including a wide-open inside pocket for a phone or wallet. Two snap buttons and a lace-tie closure keep everything in place and secure. The bag is available in a pebbled or crocodile effect in black, cappuccino, caramel, dark olive and stone. From $498.