I Polled My Friends and They All Thought This Classy M&S Bag Was Designer

If there's one thing all British fashion people have in common, it's an adoration of Marks and Spencer. Whether we're popping in to grab some snacks over a lunch break, stopping by on the way to the office to replace our snagged tights or skimming through the clothing section for new-season pieces, the enduring appeal of M&S is pretty much engrained in our DNA.
Personally, I'm particularly loyal to its tailoring and picnic food selection, but this season, it's the brand's handbag collection piquing my interest. The style that stands out the most? The new Faux Leather Top Handle Tote Bag (£40). Fulfilling the demands of a daily carry-all and looking incredibly expensive in the process, it has quickly asserted itself as the style to know this spring.
In an elegant square shape, the top-handle bag comes in deep black and light camel and is crafted from a glossy faux leather fabric. I love to call on the bag as a top handle to elevate my looks, but the trending style also comes with an adjustable strap so it can be worn on the shoulder or across the body, per your preference. I showed a picture of the bag to my colleagues and friends and most of them assumed it had to be designer, given its clean lines, gold hardware and expensive-looking finish. That's a lot to like for your £40.
Already a new-season favourite, this elegant tote is destined to sell out swiftly; a sentiment confirmed by the sheer amount of eyes it's currently getting on social media right now. I've seen so many influencers with this bag this week, so who knows—it might just be sold out by next.
Read on to discover my new favourite bag and shop our edit of the best top-handle bags.
SHOP M&S' FAUX LEATHER TOP HANDLE TOTE BAG:
A top-handle bag will put an elegant spin on any casual outfit.
Style as a crossbody or keep it in your clutches.
SHOP OUR OTHER FAVOURITE TOP-HANDLE BAGS:
Savette bags are an under-the-radar favourite amongst the style set.
This is large enough to stow all of your daily necessities.
Wedding season calls for a chic top-handle bag.
I always come back to Loewe for its elevated bag selection.
Ideal for a summer full of get-togethers.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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