A casual canvas tote is a must-have for summer, especially if you intend to head down to the shore a couple of times. The canvas is sturdy and will hold up well to sand, sun and sea, while the open-top style and large size make it the perfect carrier for bulky towels and sandals, as well as sunblock and other beach accessories that you need fast access to. The Tory Burch Printed Canvas Tote features a bold blue and white color scheme with an all-over floral print. It also has a navy patent leather trim at the base and on the wide, woven shoulder straps. The bag is $225 and the matching logo leather slides pictured with it are $195.

There is not a giant buckle anywhere to be seen on Fendi's new Canvas Bag du Jour, a welcome change for anyone who is looking forward to seeing some slightly more understated handbags. Not that the large logo on the front of the bag is exactly subtle, although it is much less attention-grabbing than buckles the size of the purse. This handbag is made out of natural canvas and has a black patent calfskin trim. The two top shoulder straps are woven, as are the loops on the two side pockets. It is quite large and measures 12 4/5"H x 20"W x 7 1/5"D. Price: $1,400.

No sooner were the words about wanting to see more denim out of my mouth than I came across a few more denim finds! In the spirit of Memorial Day weekend, I'm bypassing the denim Fendi Spy in favor of the Sweet Canvas Tote from Marc by Marc Jacobs. The handbag certainly is sweet, with its pink contrast topstitching and pink-and-blue flower detail. The body of the bad is done in a muted teal blue canvas with navy trim and is topped off with a navy drawstring closure. It has front pockets to tuck away your cell phone and the directions to the beach. Cotton lining won't scratch the lenses on your sunglasses and at 10x17x6-in., you'll have more than enough room for your iPod, a book and a bottle of Evian. Price: $198.

This bag from Anthropologie really caught my eye the last time I was in the store. It's the Sail-Away Satchel, made of natural canvas with blue, calfskin accents and leather handles. The bag is soft and lightweight, despite its solid appearance, with plenty of interior room. The buckle on the front is purely decorative; there is a zip closure on the top of the bag, as well as a zip pocket on either end of the bag. It's a great choice for traveling, but you can't go wrong toting it around town, either. Price: $448.

[Photo by Nicole Weston]