Believe it or not, the iconic Hermes Kelly and Birkin bags likely started the belted tote bag trend. As we step into 2024, the belt accessory has become a dominant feature in almost all significant bag designs. The belts, often subtle yet impactful, are more than just a functional element—they’re a statement, a nod to sophistication, and a bridge between practicality and high fashion.
Table of Contents
Top Belted Tote Bags of 2024
Now that we’ve established why belted tote bags are the trend to watch, let’s dive into some of the must-have pieces of the season:
1. Hermes Kelly Bag:
A timeless classic, the Hermes Kelly features a signature belted closure that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its structured silhouette and luxurious craftsmanship make it a must-have for fashion connoisseurs.
2. Hermes Birkin Bag:
The Birkin’s iconic belted design is both functional and stylish. Known for its spacious interior and impeccable craftsmanship, this bag remains a symbol of ultimate luxury.
3. RL50 Calfskin Large Bag Ralph Lauren Collection:
Inspired by vintage equestrian style, the RL50 features a sleek belted design that adds a touch of refinement to its large, practical structure. It’s perfect for both everyday use and special occasions.
$2,500
4. Prada Buckle Handbag:
Prada’s version of the belted tote is a lesson in understated luxury. The bag features a thin, elegant belt that cinches the top, creating a subtle yet impactful detail that elevates the entire design.
5. Veronica Beard Dash Bag:
The Dash Bag by Veronica Beard combines modern aesthetics with a vintage-inspired belted detail. Its compact size and bold design make it a standout accessory for any outfit.
$698
6. DeMellier New York Tote Bag:
One of our favorite bags here on alleygirl.com. Please take a look at our DeMellier New York Bag Review. This tote bag from DeMellier London features a minimalist belted detail, offering a sleek and versatile design that’s ideal for urban living. Its roomy interior makes it perfect for busy days in the city.
$735
7. Toteme Belted Bucket Bag:
The Toteme Belted Bucket Bag merges practicality with style. Its unique bucket shape is complemented by a simple yet striking belt, making it a trendy choice for those who love understated luxury.
TOTEME Belted bucket bag
$1,340
8. FERRAGAMO Hug Top Handle Bag:
This bag’s delicate belt detail hugs its top handle design, offering a blend of elegance and functionality. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a subtle yet stylish accessory.
9. Balenciaga Bel Air Carry All Bag:
The Balenciaga Bel Air Carry All Bag features a bold belted design that adds an edgy twist to its spacious, practical form. It’s a great choice for those who want to make a statement.
10. Celine Belted Bag:
The Celine Belted Bag is known for its trapeze shape, defined by a sleek side belt. It’s the perfect example of how a simple belt can elevate a bag’s overall design.
11. Celine Anita Bag:
The Celine Anita Bag’s side belts add a touch of modernity to its classic design. It’s a versatile accessory that transitions seamlessly from day to night.
12. Saint Laurent Manhattan Shoulder Bag:
The Manhattan Shoulder Bag by Saint Laurent features a minimalist belt that enhances its clean lines and structured shape. It’s essential for those who love sophisticated simplicity. YSL Tote Review reveals that Saint Laurent is another investment worth bag.
13. Saint Laurent Sac De Jour Top-Handle Bag:
Saint Laurent adds its signature edge to the belted trend with the Rive Gauche tote. The belt detail here is sleek and minimalistic, perfectly complementing the bag’s clean lines.
$2,600
14. Tory Burch Lee Radziwill Shoulder Bag:
Named after the iconic style icon, this bag features a sophisticated side belt detail that adds a refined touch to its classic silhouette. It’s a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern elegance.
$1,198
15. Manu Atelier La Cambon Bag:
The La Cambon Bag by Manu Atelier is known for its unique belt detail that wraps around its structured silhouette. It’s a bold and modern choice for fashion-forward individuals. We loved this bag when researching The Row Margaux Alternatives. It is truly one of the highest-quality bags.
$745.00
16. Miu Miu Aventure Nappa Leather Bag:
Miu Miu’s Aventure Bag features a playful yet sophisticated belted design. Its soft Nappa leather and distinctive belt make it a standout piece.
Miu Miu Aventure nappa leather bag
$ 4,100
17. Givenchy Voyou Medium Buckle-Embellished Suede Tote:
The Voyou Tote by Givenchy features buckle embellishments that add a luxurious touch to its suede exterior. It’s a versatile bag that can be dressed up or down.
18. Reformation Alessandra Bucket Bag:
Reformation’s Alessandra Bucket Bag features a sustainable design with a chic belted detail. It’s the perfect accessory for eco-conscious fashionistas who don’t want to compromise on style.
Side Belts and Buckles: The Subtle Detail Making Waves
While traditional belted closures often take center stage, side belts and buckles are becoming a sought-after feature in 2024. These details, typically found on the sides of the bag, add a layer of sophistication and structure that transforms the overall silhouette.
1. The Row Margaux Bag:
Known for its minimalist design, The Row Margaux bag is a prime example of how side belts can enhance a bag’s aesthetic. The subtle side buckles not only add a touch of elegance but also allow for slight adjustments to the bag’s shape, making it both stylish and functional.
2. Coach Empire Carryall Bag:
The Coach Empire Carryall Bag features side buckles that offer a modern twist on the classic tote design. These buckles serve both a decorative and practical purpose, cinching the sides of the bag to create a more structured, streamlined look.
3. The Noli Shop
The Margo Bag is the ultimate forever handbag. Crafted from genuine leather, it boasts a classic silhouette that effortlessly blends simplicity with elegance. This bag strikes the perfect balance—polished enough for formal events, yet relaxed enough for your everyday adventures.
Margo Bag – $298.00
4. Flattered
The Flattered Lesley Tote Bag is your go-to for effortless sophistication. Designed with a minimalist silhouette and crafted from supple leather, this tote seamlessly blends functionality with chic style. It’s roomy enough to carry all your essentials yet refined enough to elevate any outfit.
Lesley Tote Bag Suede Chocolate – $575
5. Reformation
Oversized Patrizia Bowling Bag – $598
How to Style Belted Tote Bags
The beauty of the belted tote bag is in its versatility. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out, this bag can easily be integrated into your wardrobe. Here are some styling tips to help you make the most of this trend:
- Casual Day Out: Pair a belted tote bag with a flowy summer dress and sandals for a relaxed, chic look. The belt detail adds a touch of sophistication, elevating your casual ensemble.
- Workwear Elegance: A structured belted tote bag is the perfect companion for your office attire. Pair it with tailored pants and a crisp blouse for a polished, professional look.
- Evening Glam: Don’t be afraid to take your belted tote bag to a formal event. Choose a bag with metallic or embellished belt details, and pair it with a sleek evening gown for a show-stopping look.
Where to Shop for the Best Belted Tote Bags
Looking to get your hands on this trend? Here are some of the best places to shop for belted tote bags:
- Luxury Retailers: Stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue offer a wide range of designer belted tote bags. Keep an eye out for exclusive collections and limited-edition pieces.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Net-a-Porter and Farfetch have an extensive selection of belted tote bags from various designers. Shopping online also allows you to easily compare prices and styles.
- Boutique Stores: Don’t overlook small boutique stores, especially those that specialize in artisanal and handmade goods. These shops often carry unique, one-of-a-kind belted bags that you won’t find anywhere else.
Why Belted Tote Bags Are the Ultimate 2024 Trend
So, why has the belted tote bag taken the fashion world by storm this year? Here are a few reasons:
- Versatility Meets Style: The belted tote bag is the perfect blend of form and function. The belt adds a touch of structure to the bag, making it versatile enough for both casual outings and formal occasions.
- A Nod to Tradition: While the design is fresh and contemporary, the belted detail pays homage to classic, timeless pieces like the Hermes Kelly and Birkin. It’s a way of blending the old with the new, creating a look that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
- Customization and Personalization: Many designers are now offering customizable belted bags. Whether it’s choosing the type of leather, the color of the belt, or even adding monogrammed initials, these options allow fashion lovers to make the trend uniquely their own.
- The Power of the Belt: Let’s not forget the practical side of the belted bag. The belt isn’t just for show—it serves a functional purpose by securing the contents of the bag. In a world where security and style go hand in hand, this trend is the perfect marriage of both.
The Evolution of Belted Bags
The idea of belted bags isn’t entirely new. Hermes, with its timeless designs, introduced the world to belted closures with the Kelly and Birkin bags. Celine’s belted bag was so big around 2013-14. These bags, loved by celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike, showcased how a simple belt could transform a tote into a luxury item.
Fast forward to 2024, and this trend has evolved. Designers have taken the belted concept and reimagined it, integrating it into various tote bag styles. Whether it’s a thick leather strap that wraps around the body of the bag or a delicate belt that cinches the top, this detail has become synonymous with chic, modern elegance.
The Future of the Belted Bag Trend
As we move through 2024, it’s clear that the belted bag trend is here to stay. Designers are continuously finding new ways to incorporate this element into their collections, ensuring that the trend remains fresh and relevant.
In the coming seasons, we can expect to see even more innovative takes on the belted tote bag. From bold, oversized belts to intricate, embellished designs, the possibilities are endless. And as more brands embrace sustainability, we may also see a rise in eco-friendly materials and ethically sourced belts, making this trend not just stylish but also conscious.
Embrace the Belted Tote Bag Trend
Whether you’re a long-time fan of classic bags like the Hermes Kelly or you’re just discovering the appeal of belted designs, 2024 is the year to embrace the belted tote bag trend. With its perfect blend of style, functionality, and tradition, this is one accessory you don’t want to miss out on. So go ahead, find the belted tote that speaks to you, and make it a staple in your wardrobe.
