When it comes to shopping bags, plastic and paper are so passé. Some cities have banned plastic bags altogether, while others have implemented a "bag tax," charging a fee to consumers who opt for retailer-provided disposable carryout bags. From picking up groceries to shopping for shoes, why not bring along your own bag? In addition to being environmentally-friendly, reusable shopping bags can be a stylish way to tote your wares. Check out the variety of chic options below.
Baggu Available in neon, prints, stripes and solids, Baggu's bags are as fashionable as they are affordable. Nylon and machine-washable, the bags range from $7 to $24.
ChicoBag These bags are so eco-friendly many of them are made with recycled materials, but, as the name suggests, that doesn't stop them from being chic. The site offers "fashion bags," divided into nine collections, and it also offers festive options for your favorite holidays. The Blossom Collection offers a range of bags with perennial blooms. The large bag has a 40-pound carrying capacity and sells for $12.99. Custom options also available.
EcoBags These simple canvas bags are available in natural, organic or recycled cotton. They also fold easily to neatly fit in tight spaces, so you can tuck one into your briefcase for those after-work errands. Machine-washable, large totes sell for about $8.
Apolis Apolis, which translates as "global citizen," co-creates products with manufacturers and directly allows the market to determine the future of each item it produces. It's hard to resist their range of totes, especially the 100% Natural Golden Jute Fiber grocery totes. The Market Bag, handcrafted in Bangladesh and finished in California, reminds us of the reusable jute bags ubiquitous in London's grocery shops. Bonus: waterproof lining and natural leather straps. Sells for $58.
Will Leather Goods Brighten your load with these totes from Will Leather Goods. The 18-ounce cotton canvas bags feature leather handles for easy lifting. Available in a range of colors and patterns (we love the stripes), starting at $75.
Land's End We've long loved Land's End bags for their simple and practical design, not to mention their signature monogram. Their canvas totes are available in four sizes, and several styles and colors. One option can even be personalized with a photo or kids' artwork. One of our favorites, the large natural open top canvas tote bag, sells for a reasonable $30.
Longchamp Add a little bit of luxury to your shopping trip with Longchamp's Le Pliage. Available in more than a dozen colors, as well as trompe-l'oeil prints, these velvet and canvas totes start at $145.