The right leather bag is the one you actually carry every day, and size is usually what decides it. A bag that is too small leaves you juggling a second tote; one that is too big feels heavy and loses its shape. This guide explains what fits in each size, using the real measurements of our three bestselling bags.
Start with what you carry
Before you look at styles, empty your current bag and make a list. Most people fall into one of three groups:
- Laptop, documents and a water bottle: you need a large tote.
- Phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses and a small make-up bag: an everyday shoulder bag is enough.
- Phone, cards and a lipstick: a small shoulder or crossbody bag will do.
Large: a leather tote for work and travel
If you carry a laptop, look at the width first, then the depth. Our Maxima Croco Tote measures 48 × 30 × 14 cm and fits a 15.6" laptop, with a zip pocket inside for smaller things. Its structured croc-embossed Italian leather keeps its shape when it is half empty, which matters for a work bag. The Maxima Tote has the same size in smooth Italian leather. For more on work bags, read what to look for in a leather work tote.
Medium: an everyday shoulder bag
A medium bag of around 25 cm wide holds the essentials without feeling bulky. The Navona Classic measures 25 × 26 × 11 cm, with compartments and a zip pocket inside. Its removable, adjustable strap means you can wear it on the shoulder or crossbody, so one bag covers the office, the weekend and dinner.
Small: a slim shoulder bag for evenings
For evenings and lighter days, a slim bag is easier to carry. The quilted Alita measures 26 × 20 × 5 cm. It has two zip compartments and a card slot, a top handle and a detachable shoulder strap. It suits a phone, cards and keys rather than a full day's kit.
Quick tips before you buy
- Check the depth, not just the width: depth decides whether a wallet and a water bottle fit.
- Check the handle drop if you want to wear a tote over a coat. The Maxima's handle drop is about 26 cm.
- If you are between two sizes, choose the larger one for work and the smaller one for evenings.
Still not sure? Compare all three in our bestselling bags, or see every size in our Italian leather handbags. Every order has free delivery to the UK and Europe.
