The history of a timeless piece: the Cabas Tote

In 1998, two years after Vanessa Bruno founded her fashion house, the first Cabas tote was designed. What was the idea behind it? To create a bag that was both practical and stylish, able to hold what a woman needs for everyday life, both for her and for her baby. But also and above all, an accessory that she could carry easily when travelling by bike. In a word, something simple, large, robust but still feminine. To brighten up this everyday basic, the designer had the idea to add some sequins, which would then become this piece's trademark.

It was an immediate worldwide success. The Cabas tote become Vanessa Bruno's signature piece, as well as a symbol of relaxed Parisian elegance. A favourite of both the most discerning fashion fans and girls looking for elegant simplicity, it even made its debut at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in 2004, as part of an exhibition exploring the importance of the bag. It has stood the test of time and has become an ideal companion for all women, from students to the more mature woman.

An everyday functional item, for more than 20 years the original Cabas tote was cut in a Breton cotton fabric used to make boat sails.

Minimalist and robust, it was soon available in a washed linen version, which was softer but just as sturdy, and still decorated with the iconic sequins that made its reputation. In keeping with the rhythm of the seasons, it has also been redesigned in leather (smooth, crinkled or suede) and enhanced with eyelets for winter, as well as a raffia design, which is a real must-have for summer. In addition, there have been limited editions in wool, felt or decorated with unique messages and prints.

All in all, there have been more than a thousand different combinations of Cabas tote designs since its creation, making it a unique and exclusive accessory. 

Cool, chic and eco-friendly. In keeping with the company values, the Cabas tote stands out even in its manufacture. The canvas and linen versions are made in France in our workshops located near Paris, while the leather versions are made in Italy, and the raffia versions are hand-woven in Madagascar.

For more than 20 years, the same Breton maker has supplied us with the cotton canvas that is used to make our original Cabas tote, while all our sequins come from the north of France. Carefully sourced, also from the same partner for more than two decades, the linen we use is woven in Belgium and benefits from the "Premium Linen" designation, which guarantees its quality and traceability.

The same care is taken in the manufacture of our raffia versions: the palm leaves in which they are made are grown, dried and processed on site and each bag is hand-woven using traditional techniques.

In order to appeal to as many women as possible, the Cabas tote would evolve over the years and was soon made available in several different sizes: XS to transport just the essentials, S for when you are travelling light, M for those who need to carry a little more, L for young mums, students and business women and XL, the ideal overnight bag for a spontaneous getaway.

Versatile and ultra-robust, this functional bag has gradually become an essential for all your everyday needs. For those who want a little more, little zipped pouches and purses have been introduced, also featuring the iconic sequins.

Want to own a Cabas tote that reflects your personality? It's possible. Embroidery or fun patches, over to you to add your initials or good luck charms on your bag, or little accessories in linen or cotton that express who you are.