Let's face it: Books are ridiculously overpriced, adding about $800 per year to the cost of education.
So then why shouldn't we take care of them? I say we protect the precious ink and paper with uber-stylish and functional totes! Boys, you should read this, too. I've got a couple of bags for you as well!
Ladies, while backpacks are specifically designed for books, carrying a tote is simply more fashionable. Your tote has the potential to act as more than just a book or laptop carrier. It could be a shopping bag, purse or even a weekender. Longchamp's "Le Pliage" bags and Hervé Chapelier's shopping bags have been spotted all around campus, but I've got some bags just as chic and affordable.
Hervé and Longchamp bags are popular because they are durable and washable. I'm a huge fan of LeSportsac, and one can easily pop its bags into the washer. I've got a LeSportsac pencil case, cosmetic bags, purse and tote. Basically, I'm obsessed. Why? The crazy and unique patterns change often. The bags magically fit everything in like Mary Poppins' carpetbag. Also, I've washed my LeSportsac purse at least five times, and it hasn't faded at all. (Side tip: Whenever you machine wash nylon bags, make sure settings are on cold wash and that you line dry your bag.) The exterior pockets of the Travel Tote in Kingdom print ($88.00 at www.lesportsac.com) was pretty much made for a water bottle, wallet and other miscellaneous items.
In continuing last week's green theme, I have found the perfect tree hugger's tote. Beau Soleil sells a bag with a bold message printed on: "Reduce Recycle Renew." It reminds me of Anya Hindmarch's "I'm not a Plastic Bag" bag, but at a fraction of the price. The navy blue rope handles give it a nautical feel ($44.00 at shopbeausoleil.com).
If you're searching for something that looks luxurious, I've discovered the Monaco clear tote bag ($19.99 at www.shopintuition.com). The woven chain shoulder straps are reminiscent of those on Chanel purses. Because of the transparency, you'll never lose anything in the depths of your bag ever again. Also, you'll be good to go at airport security.
Now onto the men. To my dearest manly man, carrying a stylish bag around campus will give you extra points in my book. Recently, my mother gave my brother a leather and canvas messenger bag by JAG Australia. The "murse," or male purse, upset my brother at first, but soon he was convinced by the practicality of such a bag. Surprisingly, many stores and brands carry bags for men, but of course that doesn't mean that all are worthy of being purchased. For example, J.Crew makes their popular Amagansett and Madaket totes for men, but I beg you to stay away from them like the plague. If I ever see you sporting one around, I'll think that you're carrying your girlfriend's bag.
A bag that slings over one shoulder is your best bet. It won't hamper your walking, and you won't have to readjust it on your shoulder unlike a regular shoulder bag. I'm currently fawning over canvas and leather combinations such as Fossil's Recon North/South messenger bag ($88.00 at www.macys.com). The neutral colors promise to match with all your jeans, cords and jackets.
For those of you who aren't fans of the rugged look, perhaps a sleeker, more streamlined messenger would better suit your taste. The "Sport Retro" messenger by Lacoste ($125.00 at www.nordstroms.com) looks great in either black or midnight blue.
Whatever stylish bag you choose, you will look "tote"-ally cool. Until next week, stay fabulous!
Lumay Wang is a freshman who has not yet declared a major. She can be reached at Lumay.Wang@tufts.edu.
