A History of ‘It’ Tote Bags: L.L. Bean, Hermès, Longchamp and More

One of the earliest-known tote bags dates back to the late 19th century, when a local store called Cantwell Shoes in Coshocton, Ohio, printed their logo on a burlap sack. Ever since, designers far and wide have put their own spin on the handbag staple, toeing the line between trendy and practical.

Now that summer is just around the corner, carry-alls are poised to be one of the season's must-have accessories. Ahead, the history behind six iconic tote bags.

L.L. Bean is known for their practical approach, and they certainly struck gold with their classic canvas Boat and Tote, which was launched in 1944. Originally made to haul ice, the Boat and Tote can hold up to 500 pounds.

As of 2022, sales of the bag have increased by 30 percent. Starting at just $29.99, the affordable piece can be customized with your monogram of choice.

Named after French actress Jane Birkin, the Hermès carry-all was created in 1984 after Birkin told executive chairman Louis Dumas that she was in need of a purse suitable for her needs as a young mother. Today, the Birkin is one of the most coveted designer bags, with some fetching as much as $2 million. They come in a variety of finishes, including chèvre, crocodile and ostrich leather.

In 1993, Longchamp launched the Le Pliage. Designed by the label's former president, Philippe Cassegrain, the foldable canvas bag was inspired by origami. The Le Pliage also features cowhide leather trimming and silver hardware. It's since become Longchamp's most iconic style. The Le Pliage comes in a plethora of colors, and the label recently launched a "Green" line made from recycled canvas.

Introduced in 2007, the Neverfull is one of Louis Vuitton's bestselling bags. The coated canvas tote comes with cowhide trim and is available in a variety of prints and colors, including Louis Vuitton's recognizable Damier check pattern.

First released as part of Telfar's fall 2014 collection, the Shopping Bag has been nicknamed the "Bushwick Birkin" for its upscale look and affordable price. The constantly sold out piece features the interlocked initials of Telfar Clemens, the brand's namesake founder.

Dior's current creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri, dug deep into the French fashion house's archives to create the Book Tote. Based on a drawing done by designer Marc Bohan in 1967, the bag features Dior's signature logo monogram. It was first introduced as part of the label's spring 2018 collection.

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