Canvas Tote Bags

Recently, canvas tote bags have come out of the closet. With the "greening" of America, people are shunning disposable plastic bags and turning towards reusable alternatives. This is good news for fashionistas everywhere - as now there is another avenue for showing off a little individuality.

Traditionally, bote and totes were what came to mind when someone mentioned tote bag. This preppy staple of New England culture were made popular by such companies as Land's End and LL bean. While these handbags are still popular, even these old standards have received updates.

These days, canvas tote bags come in a variety of flavors. They are more lightweight and durable than their predecessors. The patterns are endless and many companies have taken advantage of the trend to either sell or give away totes that bear the company logo. This is a far better investment than printed plastic bags because they are used over and over and over again.

For example, our town is actually very forward thinking and has banned plastic bags altogether. That's right, no retailer of groceries and sundries is permitted to package their sales in plastic. They must use paper bags or reusable ones. As a consumer, this may seem a bit inconvenient at first, but one gets used to it very quickly.

I have taken to carrying a fold up nylon tote in my purse. In a moments notice I unfurl my "money bags" - there are pictures of coins all over this one. I have used this in a pinch when shopping at CVS or even at the library when I find that I am borrowing more books than I can carry.

A summer twist on canvas tote bags is a mesh version that is great for trips to the beach or pool. Sand will easily sift out of the mesh fabric and wet clothes or towels will have good air circuation.

The possibilities are truly endless!

One of my newest favorite brands of canvas tote bags is Rootote. They are hard to find in the United States but their individuality is unparalleled. Even while researching this topic I have been tempted to buy a few for myself. These can be found on eBay as well.

The beauty of the Rootote is that it can be folded up into itself - using the inside pocket as a pouch. This handy little package can be thrown into a purse, car, backpack, just about anywhere. And it is ready for duty when the need arises.

Tell us, have you made the switch from plastic to reusable? What are some things that you and your family are doing to go green? Either leave a comment or vote in the poll below.