A Complete Guide To The Calla Tote Bag
Since its release, the Calla tote has become one of CHARLES & KEITH’s most popular bags. This comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about this much-loved carrier, from its design features to its detailed dimensions. You will also learn how to style this chic and versatile carrier for different occasions.
The Calla Tote Bag & Its Popularity
Featuring a softly structured silhouette, the CHARLES & KEITH Calla tote bag’s chic and functional design has made it a favourite among university students and corporate girlies. It is equipped with magnetic clasps, which allow the user to achieve two different looks by either folding in the sides or leaving them out. The slim, elongated shoulder straps are tasteful and practical, setting the Calla apart from other tote bags — they also offer a comfortable drop length so the bag would sit comfortably under your arm when carried on the shoulder. This stylish tote also has a capacious interior and comes with a handy zippered pouch. Available in a range of classic colours and on-trend finishes, there is a Calla tote bag for every style personality.
All About The Calla Tote Bag
Now, let's take a closer look at the Calla Tote bag.
Size & Weight
The Calla tote bag is currently available in two sizes — L and XL. The original version (L) was released as part of CHARLES & KEITH’s Fall Winter 2024 collection. The XL Calla tote bag launched a year later in our Fall Winter 2025 collection. Read on for a detailed comparison of the two versions and find out which one would best suit your needs and lifestyle.
| CALLA TOTE BAG | XL CALLA TOTE BAG | |
|---|---|---|
|
STRAP DROP LENGTH Refers to the distance between the highest point of the strap to the top of the bag’s body. |
31cm |
27cm |
|
WIDTH Refers to the horizontal distance between one side of the bag to another, usually measured at the front of the bag. Use this measurement to gauge how much the bag might be able to fit. |
18-40cm (width varies depending on how the magnetic closures at the sides are clasped) |
22-50cm (width varies depending on how the magnetic closures at the sides are clasped) |
|
DEPTH Refers to the horizontal distance between the front and back of the bag. |
10cm |
11.6cm |
|
HEIGHT The vertical distance between the top and bottom of the bag. Use this measurement to gauge if it can fit tall items like a water bottle kept upright. |
23cm |
30cm |
|
DEVICES THAT FIT COMFORTABLY
Screen size is not always an accurate indicator of whether your device will fit as device length and depth can vary across brands and models. To ensure a good fit, compare your device’s exact dimensions with the bag’s measurements. We have only included devices that fit comfortably when the bag is fastened shut. This means that they will sit fully inside the bag without any part protruding. |
Up to 11” devices (Certain tablets) |
Up to 16” devices (Most standard-sized laptops and tablets) |
|
WEIGHT |
521g |
625g |
Bag Compartments
Both the L and XL Calla tote bags feature a single main compartment with no built-in pockets or sections. The roomy interior can hold a lot — perfect for heavy-load days — while the simple one-compartment design gives you the freedom to store your belongings however you want. You can simply toss everything you need into the Calla or use a bag organiser to keep it neat and tidy.
To ensure ready access to small, frequently used items, such as earbuds and keys, all Calla totes come with a zippered pouch. This pouch is accompanied by a slim strap that can be securely attached to a D-ring in the bag. As it is detachable, it can also be used with other bags in your collection or on its own as a handy wristlet for lunch breaks and errand runs.
Bag Opening & Closures
Both sizes of the Calla tote bag feature three sets of magnetic button clasps along its wide opening — one is affixed in the middle, while the other two are found at the sides. The side clasps are not only used to keep the bag shut but also serve the function of altering the shape and capacity of the bag by either holding its sides in or letting them out. When the sides are folded in, a relatively compact construction and striking geometric shape is achieved. When the sides are let out, the bag takes on a slouchier, more relaxed look — it’s storage capacity would also be maximised in this form.
Colours
The Calla tote bags come in a range of colours and finishes, from smooth faux leather in timeless neutral colours to soft suede in warm earth tones. Shop the Calla tote bags and keep a lookout for new colourways and designs in the upcoming seasons.
Bag Straps & Ways To Carry
Featuring a double-handle design, the Calla tote bag’s straps are long and slender. These straps are non-detachable and non-adjustable, so it can only be carried on the shoulder. There is a slight difference in drop lengths of the L (31 cm) and XL (27 cm) Calla totes. For those living in cooler climates, where layered outfits and thicker coats are required, the L version offers more allowance with its longer drop length — however, it does have a smaller capacity than the XL version.
How To Style Calla Tote Bag For Every Occasion
The minimalist design of the Calla tote makes it easy to style, as it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. When choosing a Calla tote, it is important to consider which version will look the best on your frame. In general, the original Calla tote (L) is a good match for more petite women, while the XL Calla tote is more likely to complement taller ladies.
For University / School
The Calla tote has all the makings of a great university bag, delivering on both form and function. Effortlessly chic yet not too formal, it will see you through days on campus, as well as after-school events. Whichever colour or size you choose, the Calla tote will match well with most school outfits, from casual and preppy to edgy and experimental.
For Office
The Calla tote bag’s clean-lined design makes it an appropriate choice for most workplace settings — it will make any outfit look polished and put-together. Its sophisticated yet relaxed silhouette can be styled with both formal tailored ensembles and smart-casual looks. Its versatility makes it a great everyday bag during the workweek.
For Everyday
The Calla tote is the perfect work-to-weekend bag. Available in a range of match-all neutral hues, the Calla tote is a very worthy addition to any bag collection and will integrate easily into your existing wardrobe. In darker finishes like espresso brown and dark moss, the Calla tote is especially practical and suitable for everyday use, as dirt and signs of wear-and-tear are less obvious on these forgiving colours than on lighter shades.
Offering the perfect blend of style and functionality, the thoughtfully designed Calla tote bag is a modern classic that will stand the test of time. It definitely deserves a place in your everyday style rotation. If you are a fan the sophisticated aesthetic of the Calla tote bag, you will also love the shoulders bags and crossbody bags in the same range — they share the same features as the popular tote, including softly structured silhouettes and elegant strap details.