When it comes to toting around your stuff, you want something that is not only practical, but beautiful! Summer is one of those times of the year when you usually have way more stuff to carry around: beach towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, snacks, and water bottles…the list goes on! Not only are there amazingly beautiful totes available these days, but they are ones that you can use as storage IN your house or room which saves a ton of space! Here are some of our favorites:
-Apolis Global: One of our favorite companies, because they also employ women around the world at a livable and sustainable wage. We love that they are sustainable and also make gorgeous products. Their stunning bags wipe clean on the inside, and I’m sure that you have seen them on Instagram. They look beautiful in a mudroom or entryway, filled with fresh flowers, or to store things like extra shoes, towels, or books when you’re not using them for the beach or playdates. It’s rare that a gorgeous bag can double as storage, but it’s versatile and worth the money.
-Amazon market totes: If you can’t quite swing the Apolis totes, check out the dupes on Amazon (just type in market bag dupes) and find them for under $25. To be clear, the quality is not nearly the same, and they are not sustainable, but if you have little kids, you may want something that’s not as expensive to lose or stain. You could also try them out before you make the larger purchase.
-As you know, I am a big fan of market totes and baskets, because they are also able to be used as secondary storage in the off season. I like to load them up with fresh or faux greenery and add them to a counter or entry bench space for a pop of color and texture. If you want to find the best, authentic ones, check out small businesses and creators, or sites like Etsy. They can also be found at places like Estate Sales or Thrift Stores, but they’re pretty popular, so they’re harder to come by. Amazon has a nice version for under $50, if you are just testing out the trend.
-Although storage baskets aren’t something you would take to the beach as easily, they can be used for travel or toting things between houses if needed. They look amazing on the floor or shelves, filled with throw pillows or blankets, or to hide kid’s toys. If you’re looking for a great place to find those types of baskets, check out World Market for affordable pieces that will withstand the test of time. Try to display them in pairs for maximum impact