I’ve never been impressed by fancy ‘It’ bags, designer merchandise with labels and logos and loads of hardware. And this summer is no exception. With its sturdy fabric, vibrant colours and seaside stripes, I am here for the preppy canvas tote. This oh-so practical bag is perfect for picnics, weekend breaks and as a carry-on if you’re jet-setting.

For super-sized stripy summer totes check out American label Kule – and you can’t beat LL.Bean’s classic Boat & Tote for quality at a reasonable price. At this time of year there are plenty of sale bargains to be had: Boden’s embroidered canvas tote is reduced and Polo Ralph Lauren has 50% off certain styles. If you’re looking to add a soupçon of French chic to an everyday ensemble, Rue de Verneuil is a Parisian company with a lovely range of posh summer bags (pictured above). See also Paravel and Haulier.

Canvas tote – Me+Em

As Jane Birkin showed us in the 1970s, a cool summer bag doesn’t have to be leather.

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