Stylish Totes for Travel: MZ Wallace Metro Tote

If you’ve been following along my posts for some time, you know that I am a huge fan of MZ Wallace bags. Their sleek, quilted designs make them well-suited for many occasions. After all these years, I finally got around to trying their signature Metro Deluxe Tote. In a season of frequent gatherings (and transition back into the office), this bag has surely come in handy. If you are looking for a great carryall bag, this one tops my list of stylish totes for travel, work, and beyond.

MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe Tote: Materials & Dimensions

I own the Medium Metro Deluxe Tote (color Dawn), but it also comes in a large. Personally, I felt that the medium is just the right size for work and travel, and fits almost everything I need for the day. The large feels too big. I figured if I ever needed to carry that much with me, I would probably just use a backpack (recommendations below):

MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe Tote (Medium – Dawn)

  • Medium Metro Deluxe Tote: 11.6 in L x 9.4 in W x 12.7 in H
  • Drop Handle is just over 8″
  • Soft nylon quilted fabric, including the straps
  • Additional Features: Detachable and adjustable crossbody strap, luggage sleeve, zip-up attachable pouch

With so many compartments, it can be challenging to keep track of which pocket I put my belongings in. There are identical exterior pockets on both sides, so I like to keep things I frequently reach for (e.g. wallet, phone, keys) towards the front. Additionally, you can zip the luggage sleeve when not in use to create an exterior pocket.

Interior Compartments to the MZ Wallace Metro Tote - Handbag Review
Birds Eye View of MZ Wallace Metro Tote – Interior & Exterior Compartments

How I like to Style My Metro Tote

The Metro Tote is super versatile, and I love that you can style it for work, the gym, or the airport. Because the material is really soft, I find that you can pack a lot of things inside versus traditional luggage bags that are boxed and rigid. Not to mention, the beautiful design makes it one of the most stylish totes for travel.

3 Ways to Style the MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe Tote - Work, Travel, Gym.
Styling the MZ Wallace Metro Tote for Work, Gym, and Travel

Other Stylish Totes/Bags for Travel

One complaint people have about the Metro Tote is it is hard to find everything you need because the bag is too soft. You can use a cardboard insert to create a sturdier base. Aside from that, I can’t see any other way around it due to the type of fabric they use. That said, if flimsiness is an issue, MZ Wallace has other quilted options that have a little more structure to them.

(These styles all have luggage sleeves)

I have also styled the Metro Convertible Backpack (HERE), and the Top Handle Backpack (HERE) – sadly out of stock now, but will update when it returns. Another favorite of mine is the MZ Wallace Crosby Pippa (reviewed HERE), which is a smaller sized bag that works as a great travel-friendly crossbody.

As you research stylish totes for travel this summer, I hope this post is a helpful one!

Thank you for visiting Styled by Science—a fashion blog through the lens of a textile technologist. Get to know Vianna better by reading her story HERE.

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