We get a lot of questions asking us to compare our tote styles, so I put together a little guide to answer some of the most common inquiries. I hope this is helpful to you in making your decision :)
Let's dive right in!
The Design Philosophy
PALOMA TOTE: Structure and polish were top of mind when designing the Paloma. It's our only zipped design, and perfect for staying organized if you mainly carry laptops and files. Less ideal if you need a lot of space (we'd recommend the Lafayette or Linnea for larger capacity). Comfortable 2cm straps that won't dig into your shoulder.
LAFAYETTE TOTE: Our largest and lightest tote, with wide pinched handles. Great everyday bag with softer construction and just one main compartment. Widest shoulder straps at 2.3" - customers with narrower shoulders might prefer a different style.
LINNEA TOTE: Our interpretation of a perfect work bag. It's our most classic style, and our very first design. Slimmer and more compact than your average tote, with a flexible center divider for natural organization and also keeps laptops upright. Comfortable 2cm wide straps distribute weight evenly and won't dig into your shoulder.
TALL TOTE: Our version of your favorite canvas tote. Designed for effortless everyday wear, with minimal organization or pockets. Wide 1.6" strap that is comfortable and stylish.
Design Considerations:
- Every tote can accommodate up to 13-14" laptops
- Our vegan leather is not your typical vegan leather. It's a custom designed, breathable material that feels thick and substantial
- All bags feature an extra long strap drop of 10.5" inches for comfort and ease of wear over even the bulkiest of winter coats. Strap lengths are not adjustable, and we don't offer crossbody straps for any tote style
- All our totes are engineered with a sturdy base that keeps the bag upright, even when full
- Pockets are oriented / attached in a way where they will not cause bulging from the exterior
The Interior
All three totes are perfect for everyday and office use. It was important to me that our bags struck a balance between feeling very organized and functional, while still maintaining a timeless visual appearance. The main differences will come down to your lifestyle and design preferences.
PALOMA TOTE:
- Organization: 3 separate sections (one zipped compartment, and 2 flat exterior compartments). Fits up to 16" laptops. The Paloma 13 fits up to 13" laptops.
- Pockets: 5 slot pockets and 1 small zipped pocket
- Closure: zipper, and magnetic buttons for exterior compartments
- Structure: 9 (with 10 being most structured). The Paloma was designed to retain its look and shape, and does not have a lot of give.
- Capacity: 5 (with 10 being the most roomy). Again, the Paloma is very structured and does not have as much flexibility as our other styles
LAFAYETTE TOTE:
- Organization: 1 main compartment. Fits up to 16" laptops.
- Pockets: 4 large pockets
- Extras: detachable key leash
- Closure: flap with 2 magnetic tabs
- Structure: 7.5 (with 10 being most structured) it will stand on its own empty or filled, but will also stretch to accommodate bigger items.
- Capacity: 10 (with 10 being the most roomy)
LINNEA TOTE:
- Organization: 2 main compartments separated by a middle zipped divider. Fits up to 14" laptops.
- Pockets: 5 pockets and 3 card slots along the two sides of the bag
- Extras: detachable key leash, feet on base
- Closure: one magnetic tab
- Structure: 7 (with 10 being most structured) it will stand on its own empty or filled, but will also stretch to accommodate bigger items.
- Capacity: 9 (with 10 being the most roomy)
TALL TOTE:
- Organization: 1 main compartment, with exterior button pocket. Fits up to 14" laptops.
- Extras: comes with extra zipped pouch, feet on base
- Closure: one magnetic tab
- Structure: 6 (with 10 being most structured) this is our thinnest, most flexible style.
- Capacity: 8 (with 10 being the most roomy)
And here is me (hi!) modeling each style so you can compare the size! For reference I am 5'5". We also have height comparisons on the product pages, showing each style on women from 5'2" to 5'8".
I hope these specifications were helpful. If you want even more, we went in-depth on the design process for each bag (Paloma) (Lafayette) (Linnea) (Tall) here.
If you have any questions regarding any style, we are always here to help! Reach out to our amazing customer support at hello@frejanyc.com.