Worth It: Canvas Bags

Say goodbye to the days when you would only carry your canvas tote to the beach. This utilitarian fabric just got a luxe upgrade, so you can build out your bag collection with the season’s most sought after purse. Fresh new styles, innovative trims, and affordable price points bring these once-casual bags to an it-bag status . Here, Erica Russo, VP and fashion director for accessories and beauty at Bloomingdales, shares her insights on why these bags are flying off the shelves.

MARIE CLAIRE: How have you seen canvas bags make the shift from utility to fashion?

ER: Over the past few years, it has evolved from being a style mainly loved for its practicality to a more fashion-forward accessory. The addition of new shapes, personalization options, and textures (like leather and coated canvas) has transformed this bag, making it a key style in handbag assortments. It can have a unique design coupled with an attainable price point.

MC: Are they more durable or easier to care for than other bags, like leather?

ER: Some customers have more confidence in their purchase knowing that canvas bags are made out of a material that can be easily cleaned. The fabric can withstand some wear and tear while still looking fashionable.

MC: Canvas tote bags were a huge craze. How has the fabric made its way into other silhouettes?

ER: We’ve seen new trendy styles emerge like belt bags, bucket bags, small clutches, and pouches. We’ve even seen canvas materials cross over into other categories like sneakers.