Style - Dare to Compare

The great thing about a woven tote is that whether made from plastic or the softest nappa leather, it looks classy. I’m loving both of these over-sized totes by Bottega Veneta and Banana Republic — from rich brown colouring to spacious interiors, either tote is worthy to be carried.

Bottega Veneta – a design house famous for styling woven leather in various functions – makes a mean tote. Italian construction translates into high-quality, both inside and out. The interior of this woven tote is lined in suede, with pockets for cell phones and other daily essentials. Outside is a sea of soft nappa leather, set off by brasstone hardware and a stylish push lock closure.

While it’s a no-brainer that Bottega Veneta’s nappa leather creation is the more expensive of the two, Banana Republic’s budget-friendly version of the woven tote is certainly comparable. Though it’s not all baby-soft nappa — the metallic weave is 100 percent plastic — Banana Republic’s large carry-all does have 100 percent leather handles. It boasts plenty of interior space, with hidden pockets and a cotton — not suede — lining (making it easier to clean). Outside, it features brasstone hardware. Banana Republic’s woven tote is also available in a flashy silver.

Bottega Veneta dark brown woven leather large lock tote, $2224, Bluefly.com

Banana Republic metallic large woven tote, $178 $124.60, BananaRepublic.com