This Under £1,000 Designer Bag Dominated the Runway—Now Stylish French Women Are Snapping It Up

For me, handbags are a key feature in any outfit I put together, as not only a practical addition but that finishing touch that can often take a high-street ensemble or last-minute look to new heights. At the top of my wish list right now? Toteme's Belted Bucket Bag (£970).

Woman wears brown knit dress and black bag

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

The Belted Bucket Bag stays true to Toteme's design ethos of timeless silhouettes that still feel fresh many years later. Consider the enduring appeal of its scarf jacket or striped knit as proof of the brand's dedication to classic designs destined to become mainstays in the very best wardrobes. As a brand that forgoes logos and showy monograms, the quality, texture and design are the elements that make its pieces so identifiable as Toteme.

Toteme SS/25

The Belted Bucket Bag on the Toteme S/S 25 runway

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Toteme's first foray into the handbag category was the introduction of the T-Lock bag. Supple leather makes this bag malleable enough to sit snugly under the arm, carry by the short handle or wear crossbody via the long strap, all whilst keeping its shape. It was an instant success, gracing the arms of celebrities and fashion people as soon as it launched, and it continues to be coveted amongst the chicest fashion circles. Now the Belted Bucket Bag has arrived, I predict this too will become a cult accessory that will prove its worth for many years to come.

Woman wears brown jumper, brown silk skirt and brown Toteme handbag

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

With a bucket-like shape, the bag is roomy enough for essentials and more, featuring a contemporary flair from the belted detailing. We've watched belted bags grow in popularity since hitting the runways for S/S 24. The design adds structure to the shape, allowing the bag to be cinched in or unclasped and left open for more space. On the bottom, you'll find hardware to protect the base when set down, as well as internal slip pockets to keep essentials close to hand.

Woman wears white trousers, black T-shirt, brown loafers and black bag

(Image credit: @theannaedit)

Currently, the new bag to know about comes in five iterations. There's classic black in both gold and silver hardware, a croc-embossed style, a deep green shade and finally, a khaki canvas-finish style. As a designer piece, it's definitely an investment, with variations ranging from £920 to £970, but compared to other luxury bags that can command thousands, Toteme's prices do feel a little more attainable.

If the Toteme Belted Bucket Bag has piqued your interest too, keep scrolling to explore the options and shop more belted bags.

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Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.