Ruched leather sack size bags which have a squashy appearance and appear oversized make an appearance against bum bags set to return amid sporty types.

By night streamlined animal skin clutch tote with real or mock croc or python effects will vie with small beaded bags.

Whilst underarm bags have held stage for some years there is evidence of longer small neat shoulder totes with strap to the hip and worn across the body making a slow return.

That's the tote fashion forecast. If it doesn't make sense to you, read on and decode the fashion of totes.

Whether you're hitting the gym or heading out to your favorite bar, here's the 411 on totes, what to pair them with and which party to bring it to.

Travel bag. This type of tote is your savior when you travel. It's big; it packs everything and has all the compartments you need for your toiletries, your cellular phone, you pens, your keys, and all of those thingamajigs you want to bring.

Bucket bag. This is a large-sized tote with a bucket shape to it. It looks a bit unconventional but stylish nonetheless.

Shoulder bag. The tote for all seasons. It's a classic. It is the ultimate bag if you have to have only one. It comes in different sizes and different fabrics. This tote will never go out of style.

Duffle bag. This ultra-large is your overnight carryall. It's ideal for out of towns and those weekend road trips. It packs everything from your shoes to your jeans. These totes are made with durable materials which allows you to bring them just about anywhere. It also comes in waterproof materials for those camping trips.

Drawstring bag. Fundamentally, this tote just makes use of the concept of drawstring- hence the name. It does not utilize magnetic clips or buttons or zippers. It's a no- nonsense bag for the simple and feisty person.

Backpacks & Messenger Bags. Students favor this bag because of its utilitarian appeal. You get to carry all of your stuff in one tote- yet both hands are still free to do anything. Backpacks and messenger bags have evolved from the college days to haute couture where top designers have engaged themselves in the production of these totes.

Clutches & Mini Bags. These are flat bags which can only hold up to so many items. Clutches are usually brought to dressier occasions where this bag's material is of the dressier kind. Clutches can also be paired with denim- just make sure that the material is for daywear.

Evening bag are totes which spell glamour, sparkle and glimmer. Most come in really small sizes- just so you can put your lipstick, breath mints and whatever small trinket you'll be needing for the night.

Leather bags. The professional woman has to have one of these. They spell power and influence. The leather bag is a classic in the workplace.

Metallic bags. These totes have arrived. Whatever size or shape, metallic bags are hitting the runway at light speeds. An ordinary or drab outfit can turn to instant glam with a metallic bag at hand.

Whimsical Handbags. Every girl needs one of these totes. They are trendy, sassy and fashionable. They come in a variety of colors and spell the difference between an ordinary girl to an ultra-fashionable woman.

James Monahan is the owner and Senior Editor of ToteCity.com and writes expert articles about totes.