The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Ever wondered what these cute looking, long shoulder bags you’ve been seeing almost everywhere now? How do people manage to look casual yet chic at the same time? We call it the power of a tote bag! Tote bags are mainly characterised by having two emerging handles. They’re usually pretty large and are extremely versatile and come in many textures, designs and colours. Besides their versatility, which we’ll discuss further in a bit, their main and most important aim is that they’re eco friendly, and people often opt for tote bags for their green qualities. 

Tote bags are the best alternative to plastic bags, especially for grocery shopping. Fun fact: if you want a plastic bag in Europe after your grocery run, you’re going to have to pay for it, so most, if not all, European citizens carry their totes on their shopping trips. It is rare to find someone with their tote bag at a grocery store here. However, they do exist, and we wish we would all follow them to limit the overuse of plastic in Cairo, if even by a small percentage. 

You also don’t have to worry about the tote breaking your everyday style and outfits, as there are a few Egyptian tote bag brands that are both fashionable and eccentric. We’ve prepared quite the list for you!

Totelly

This Egyptian brand has a tote bag for every mood! Whether you’re going for brunch, work, or a cute hangout with your friends, Totelly offers a range of multicoloured, in-style designs that will have you spending your money in no time. They also try to push out the idea that you’re the main character, because sometimes people get so caught up in their daily hustle that they forget to take good care of themselves. Totelly is here to remind everyone of their worth, so use your tote and take on the world! Check out their Instagram page and get yourself one of their pretty totes selection! 

Heather Bags

At Heather Bags, you can design your own tote bag; how fun does that sound! If you’re sick of having all tote bags look more or less the same, this is the perfect opportunity for your inner designer to showcase your best work. All you have to do is DM them with whatever design you have in mind, and they’ll do it for you! Check out their Instagram page for more. 

Sunboxeg

A unisex brand, Sunboxeg is all about handmade designs. Their highlight is that they use embroidery as one of their design elements, which is pretty amazing! You can also DM them with the design you have in mind, and they will transform a plain tote into one that carries art. Besides, handmade anything always wins! Check out their Instagram page for more. 

Noorat

We’d call this one an artwork more than just a tote bag, Noor Al Saadi, the talented individual behind the designs, draws authentic and contemporary art for the tote bags. She also does digital drawing and painting! Her work features women through art, the best combination we can think of! Check out her Instagram page for more.