Denim Quilted Totes

A Bit About Quilted Bags

Although quilted handbags are a popular trend, these plush designs have been around for many years. Fashion icon Coco Chanel introduced quilted handbags in 1955, and the look has continued, in various forms. Ultra-feminine designers like Vera Bradley feature quilted handbags, as well as edgy and bags from designers like Marc Jacobs.

As a hugely popular handbag genre, quilted totes are a natural spin-off from their handbag cousins. The boxier design of most totes, in fact, is an excellent way to show off intricate quilted designs or special touches on your shoulder accessory.

The Power of Denim in a Tote

Denim is an unarguable classic, and its casual beauty extends beyond the legs of your jeans. Since totes are often used as daily "go to" bags by many women, it's essential to have durable materials. While canvas is one of the most widely used materials for a causal tote, and leather is a popular choice for dressier tote styles, denim is also a great choice since it is not only durable, but can also be used in many different ways to achieve very tote bag designs.

Although quilting in general adds a slightly softer and more feminine feel, the juxtaposition of denim fabric and quilted stitches creates a distinct appeal.

Styles of Denim Quilted Totes

Many high-end designers offer denim quilted totes, and thus are available in low-end knock-off versions as well. One of the most common quilted denim looks is the quilted diamond pattern. Denim totes are designed in a variety of colors as well, from light, medium, and dark shades of blue denim commonly associated with a more casual feel, to black and white denims that give a slightly more sophisticated flair. Quilted denim totes are also often accented with leather panels, straps or handles.

Available styles include:

• This Marc Jacobs' quilted tote in baby blue denim with white leather accents and chain handles is sweetly sophisticated but also practical and casual.

• Also by Marc Jacobs, this dark denim tote has orange contrast stitching in the quilted pattern, thick chain shoulder strap, and buckl-y exterior pockets for an ultra-contemporary twist on the denim tote.

• This Burberry Denim Tote offers a subtle quilted design in dark denim that is casual yet classy. With its rich burnt-sienna leather accents and handles and ample square shape, this is a perfect bag for every day.

• This hobo style quilted tote available at Serengeti has a soft look, comfortable shape, and exterior pocket for stashing every day items.

• If you need a cute bag to tote around your little pooch, Haute Dog Boutique sells a fresh, dark-quilted denim doggy tote. With comfy shoulder strap and two exterior pockets, you and your pup can be out and about in style.

Shopping for Denim Totes

Denim is more affordable than many other handbag materials, although naturally designer bags will be more costly. Search for denim totes in quilted styles from sites like ebags, Amazon.com, and your favorite department stores. Crafts boutiques, small handbag stores, and country-themed store may also have denim tote selections available.

More Great Denim Bags

Quilted denim is available in more than just totes. You can also find a wide variety of denim looks, including contemporary "crazy" denim bags with prints, in many types of handbags. Other denim and quilted denim style bags you can find include:

• Satchels
• Clutches
• Barrel Bags
• Hobos
• Diaper Bags
• Shoppers
• Quilted Wallets