History of the Tote Bag
Tote bags did not get their name until the 20th century, but bags (for carrying items), in general, are believed to have been around since the 17th century. In the United States, the tote bag frenzy dates back to the 1940s with the introduction of L.L. Bean's Boat Bag (1944). Given the carrying convenience, spacious storage, and minimal maintenance, people soon started favoring totes over heavier suitcases. Tote bags made their way into mainstream culture in the 1950s, predominantly used as everyday handbags by the female population. The waves drastically changed from expandability to fashion with the introduction of Bonnie Cashin's Cashin Carry Tote bags in the 1960s— an artful blend of aesthetics and functionality. Then came the early 1990s, and totes further took off along with strappy kitten heels and slip dresses. Carried by the likes of Princess Diana and 90s poster girl Jennifer Anniston, it changed the way we viewed tote bags forever.
Origin of the Tote Bag
Tote bags are extremely useful when it comes to daily activities. They are comfortable and spacious and come in a wide variety of styles that can be worn with any outfit. Tote bags are generally larger than other bags, and more durable as well. It is far preferable to have one of these bags than a slew of tiny ones that can get easily misplaced or worn out prematurely.
But while modern tote bags are stylish and make shopping a breeze, where or how did they come about? These super-handy bags have a history, and it is pretty astounding!
THE TIMELINE:
The origin narratives for the tote bag are many, including one that takes place in Paris in the 1860s. The luggage industry soared with the growth of travel. It was primarily designed in leather as a strong medium to store and transport valuables or journey beddings for individuals traveling for work. Soon, totes in various sizes and materials started to emerge, making their way into mainstream culture.
The 1940s
L.L. Bean's creation of the ice bag was what placed the tote obsession in the modern spotlight. A well-known Maine-based outdoor store, L.L. Bean's sturdy canvas ice carrier allowed people to transport ice from vehicles to their homes (for replacing ice blocks in the refrigerators).
The 1960s
L.L. Bean brought back the canvas ice bag in the 1960s, but with an upgraded version called the boat and tote. The older plain designs were livened with colorful trims, which is still a feature in today's designs. The tote bag began to truly gain popularity during this period and was no longer just a practical bag. The 1960s, one could say, was when tote bags began evolving from a daily bag to a vibrant, fashionable statement.
The 1970s–1980s
In the following decades after the 60s, tote bags started gravitating toward performing as business advertising mediums. The bag grew in popularity during the 1980s, as did its applications. Businesses began using tote bags as promotional merchandise (they were cheap and easy to manufacture). They printed company logos on tote bags and sold them as marketable goods.
The 1990s
IKEA's iconic Frakta (for a dollar) took over the 90s streets. A popular blue and yellow bag with the capacity to carry up to 30 pounds. It was a game-changer for reusable shopping bags. Eventually, other stores started springing up their own designs of reusable plastic bag alternatives.
The 2010s
This was the era of tote bags taking center stage all over America and the world. Becoming a form of fashion and self-expression more than ever. The New Yorker also began handing out free tote bags to its subscribers in 2014.
Modern Day
The tote is the most adaptable of all bag styles. The original features have stayed constant, but now we have endless styles and designs that complement daily office work to classy evening dinners. Tote bags, in the present day and time, are still dynamic and practical. Used by people from all walks of life across the planet.
Why are Tote Bags still the 'IT' accessory in the modern world?
Convenient, spacious, lightweight, chic, and credible! Tote bags come in various patterns, sizes, styles, and materials and they are super versatile to transition from a daytime to a glamorous evening extravaganza. It's impressive all the way! The beginning of the twentieth century marked tote bags as a timeless symbol of trend and elegance. It's an ultimate pick for carrying essentials safely over the shoulders, thanks to its brilliant material, silhouette, and multiple compartments. The expandable feature of tote bags makes them a spectacular champion, be it for functionality, fashion, or business promotions.
Speaking of business promotions, Gallant, as a B Corp, keeps in mind the detrimental impacts of fast fashion on the planet and humans. We offer eco-friendly promotional/ retail custom tote bags while caring for the environment and those around us. View our collection of bulk canvas tote bags for your next event,
