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11 Waterproof Tote Bags to Get You Through Fall’s Rainy Days

Cloudy with a chance of chic.

By Noelia Rojas-West
best waterproof tote bags
Courtesy of retailers

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

You may have already noticed, but the weather report has been showing a good amount of rain this fall. And that means it’s time to suit up in a chic trench coat and opt for a stylish waterproof tote bag. Most of the time, the best tote bags are made of leather, quilted materials, or even canvas. There are many great choices, but when shopping smart you also have to acknowledge the weather.

What makes a bag waterproof, you may ask? The sturdy material. Bags that are waterproof or water-resistant, according to Seamwork, are likely to be made of fabric that allows water to easily bead off or feature a water-resistant coating. They’re also known to last longer because of the heavy materials that keep your bag protected from the elements. Nylon, lamination, PVC, or a thick wax coating are great examples of what to look for when shopping for a waterproof tote bag.

Fall’s weather is often on the unpredictable side. Whether the daily forecast calls for a chance of showers or the air is damp—or even frosty—we need to be ready. These bags will be sure to make you look fabulous while keeping your things dry. Shop the best waterproof totes ready to take on any type of day.

Poised and Playful

Acne Studios Blue & Red Nylon Tote

Blue & Red Nylon Tote

This bag needs no introduction—baby blue and red are a match made in heaven. This waterproof tote will make you feel as cool as a cucumber. Strut through all of the elements in style.

Dimensions: Width: 19 inches; height: 13.75 inches; depth: 9 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: Nylon and coated canvas lining

Colors: Pale blue/Red

Green Goddess

Coachtopia Loop Quilted Cloud Tote

Loop Quilted Cloud Tote

Sustainable and water-resistant; need I say more? This darling bag has me daydreaming of a good read and a matcha on a cloudy day.

Dimensions: Length: 16.1 inches; height: 26 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: 100% recycled polyester

Colors: Olive Green, Black, Violet Orchid, Cloud, Twilight

Customer review: “This bag is super cool, lightweight, a great color, and roomy. And I definitely really appreciate that it is a recycled product and great for the environment. The shipping box/presentation is Coach high quality and always on the cutting edge for new products/ styles! I love it and you will too!!”

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Casual and Chic

Baggu Nylon Shoulder Bag

Editor’s Choice
Nylon Shoulder Bag

Mary Poppins would be enticed by the wonders of this bag. Similar to her oversized bag in the movie, this nylon masterpiece is sure to hold everything you need and more. I own and love this bag—from the office to travel—it is the absolute best.

Dimensions: Length: 10.5 inches; width: 14 inches; height: 4 inches

Strap drop: 27.5 inches adjustable quilted strap

Material: Recycled heavyweight nylon, recycled ripstop nylon lining

Colors: Brown, Bay Laurel, Navy, Lantana, Black

Radiant and Roomy

Fjallraven Kanken Totepack

Kanken Totepack

Perhaps you’re in the market for something functional—and this is the best way to go. Complete with three strap styles, this bag is ideal for every and all occasions.

Dimensions: Length: 11.75 inches; height: 14.25 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: Technical weave

Colors: Desert Brown, Black, Navy, Ox Red, Rowan Red, Sky Blue, True Red

Customer review: “I’ve used this every day to replace my previous huge backpack. Works really well, is shower-resistant and the adaptable straps (from tote to backpack) are V useful—e.g. from a bike ride to a shopping bag. Fits my laptop nicely, too.”

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Dazzling and Daring

Mark and Graham Steele Waterproof Tote

Steele Waterproof Tote

Customizable and flattering. This option not only keeps your prized possessions protected but allows you to represent yourself. Attach your initials (or something else) and swap out the colors to create a piece just for you.

Dimensions: Width: 17 inches; height: 14.25 inches; depth: 7 inches

Strap drop: 10 inches

Material: 18.5 oz tear and water-resistant vinyl-coated nylon.

Colors: 12 colors

Sweet and Spicy

Patagonia Black Hole® Tote 25L

Black Hole® Tote 25L

Spice up your wardrobe this season with a splash of color—and with recycled materials, at that. Style this bag with jeans and a chunky knit or a dress and your best pair of rain boots.

Dimensions: Width: 19 inches; height: 13.75 inches; depth: 9 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: 100 percent recycled fabric

Colors: Perennial Purple, Touring Red, Black, Shine Yellow

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Beautiful Babydoll

Ted Baker London Nicon - Knot Bow Large Icon

Nicon - Knot Bow Large Icon

Where are all my pink girls? This darling bag, with a bow larger than life, is not only so elegant but also captures the doll-like aesthetic beautifully.

Dimensions: Width: 34.5cm; height: 34.5cm; depth: 13cm

Strap drop: N/A

Material: 100 percent polyvinyl chloride

Colors: Pink, Black

Unique Utilitarian

Rains Trail shell tote bag

Trail shell tote bag

When in doubt, there is no wrong in reaching for a classic black bag. With pockets for just about anything and an incredibly sleek silhouette, you will definitely feel like you won the lottery with this purchase.

Dimensions: Width: 42cm; height: 46cm; depth: 2.5cm

Strap drop: N/A

Material: 100 percent polyester; coating 100 percent polyurethane

Colors: 01 BLACK

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Classic and Charming

Adidas Originals Utility 2.0 Tote

Originals Utility 2.0 Tote

A staple piece under $100 that can be styled so effortlessly. It comes in the most stunning neutrals, too.

Dimensions: Width: 11.5 inches; height: 15.5 inches; depth: 6 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: 100 percent recycled polyester

Colors: Beige, Black

Customer review: “Great bag for travel and work—great utility bag for all your work essentials. Been looking for something like it for a while.”

Fierce and Foxy

Baboon to the Moon Triangle Tote Bag

On Sale
Triangle Tote Bag

Everyone needs something multicolored in their bag rotation. Wear this with a flouncy dress, a cardigan, and the cutest riding boots to capture the most desired fall aesthetic.

Dimensions: Width: 16.5 inches; height: 16.7 inches; depth: 5.9 inches

Strap drop: 59 inches

Material: 210D recycled nylon N66 baby ripstop

Colors: Lavender Purple, Desert Brown, Black

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Lovely Luxury

Charles Jeffrey Loverboy Brown Large Two Strap Check Tote

Brown Large Two Strap Check Tote

This shiny bag features plaid undertones, which is what I personally have been waiting for. Classy and sexy— perfect for a stroll in the park or a romantic date.

Dimensions: Width: 16 inches; height: 17 inches; depth: 2 inches

Strap drop: N/A

Material: Polyurethane-coated

Color: Brown check

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