The trend toward chain link totes seems like an obvious choice this season. Although totes are somewhat on the practical side of the handbag spectrum, the addition of chains to ordinary totes makes them into something special. These totes featured are far from your generic 9-to-5 envelope tote and are just as adept at toting around loads of stuff during your busy weekdays. Or they would also serve a practical purpose on weekend getaways.
The trend toward Chain straps do add a few extra ounces of weight to a handbag, so they are not for everyone. I know that when I overpack a tote I feel the strain on my shoulders at the end of the day. If you are looking for just a touch of chain link on your bag for added glam then there are also styles such as the Burberry Barbed wire that feature just a touch of chain as an accent.
Stella McCartney‘s Falabella Tote (upper left, $1,145.00 at Neiman Marcus) is surrounded on four corners with chains that merge at the top into a set of double straps. I do think the price is a bit outrageous for black coated cotton. This bag is also a bit floppy and sloppy and I’m no so keen on this style.
From Dior is the Le 30 Medium Tote (upper right, $2600 at Saks) which is made of a handstitched cannage lambskin leather and accented with silvertone hardware and double chain-link shoulder straps. A Dior logo tag is attached and inside you’ll find one zippered and two open pockets. The Dior chain link tote chain straps are secured by a leather strap which offsets the chain digging into your shoulder.
If you are a Burberry fan but are looking for an edge, the Burberry Barbed Wire Check Tote (bottom right, $1695 at Neiman Marcus) is for you. If you look closely you’ll find barbed wire (yes barbed wire!) accenting this otherwise ordinary Burberry signature plaid top handled tote.
Be&D gets its links on with the Ludlow Studded Leather Tote (bottom left, $795.00 at Bloomingdales). This studded leather and obviously moto trend inspired tote has a detachable chainlink strap to lend a glam-rock edge. Wear it as either a shoulder bag or carry it as a top handled tote. Inside you’ll find interior zip, cell phone and additional pockets and key ring enclosed by a top magnetic closure to keep your essentials organized.
