If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you’ll know that I’m a longtime lover of Saint Laurent bags. Today we’ll be talking about one of their relatively recent releases—the Y Tote.
The Y Tote was officially released in late Summer 2024 and was quickly classed as an it-bag by Vogue when Angelina Jolie was spotted carrying it at JFK Airport. She’s not the only celebrity who has gotten their hands on the bag, with sightings of Bella Hadid, Zoë Kravitz, Blackpink’s Rosé, Talia Ryder, and even Charli XCX fuelling its popularity.
Photo credit: Backgrid USA
Now, I’ll be honest: when I first spotted the bag, I wasn’t super into it. You know how when one of your favourite artists drops a new song, the first time you hear it you’re underwhelmed, but after a few listens, it suddenly becomes a tune you can’t get out of your head? That’s exactly how I felt about this bag when I first saw it. Let’s go through an in-depth look at this carryall and talk about why…
Design and Materials
The Saint Laurent Y Tote is crafted from finely grained leather and fully lined in tonal suede, which gives it a luxurious feel while keeping the look understated and chic. Its open-top design is typical for a tote bag, but it is decorated with a subtle Y-stitched signature in the centre. It features an inner zip pocket and hook closure which is very typical of totes.
I suppose when I first saw the bag, I felt a little bit underwhelmed. However, the more I looked at it, the more it grew on me. I began to appreciate the bag’s subtlety, the absence of a flashy logo, and the understated nod to the brand through the Y-shaped detail.
Practicality and Functionality
As with all good totes, the Y Tote is impressively lightweight despite its generous size—a crucial feature for a bag designed to carry everyday essentials. An interior zip pocket provides just enough organisation without detracting from its sleek silhouette. Moreover, the structured base ensures that the tote maintains its shape even when fully loaded, making it ideal for busy days on the go.
Y Tote Size and Dimensions
The Y Tote comes in one size and measures 37 x 32 x 7–22 cm / 14.6″ x 12.6″ x 2.8–8.7″. It has a strap drop of 26 cm / 10.2″. It is definitely spacious enough to handle a busy lifestyle and makes a fine travel companion, helping you fit a laptop, daily essentials, and even a change of clothes.
Backgrid USA
For comparison, it is similar to the popular Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM (i.e., the large version). For reference, the Neverfull GM measures approximately 39 x 32 x 19 cm / 15.7″ x 13″ x 7.9″, while, as mentioned, the Y Tote comes in at 37 x 32 x 7–22 cm / 14.6″ x 12.6″ x 2.8–8.7″.
What is particularly noteworthy is the strap drop. The Y Tote features a strap drop of 26 cm / 10.2″, compared to the Neverfull GM’s 20 cm / 7.9″. Many people say that the Neverfull’s strap drop is too short—I’ve experienced this myself, as it tends to fall off my shoulder—so the Y Tote’s longer strap drop is definitely a plus.
Y Tote Price
In terms of price, the Y Tote retails at $3,600 / €3,200 / £2,900, which, in my opinion, is a little pricey. However, considering its high-quality craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and beautiful design, many would argue that it’s a worthy investment for a statement piece that seamlessly blends style with functionality.
Final Thoughts
The Saint Laurent Y Tote perfectly blends understated luxury with everyday practicality. Its elegant, subtle design and thoughtful features have truly grown on me—even if the $3,600 price tag is a bit steep. Despite that, I’m definitely tempted to add this modern classic to my collection. It’s a statement piece that will effortlessly elevate any look.
