Toteme T Lock Clutch Review: Is it Worth It?

One of the most common questions for the Toteme T Lock is which size should you buy? The clutch or top handle?

I strongly prefer the clutch for the evening (and in general). The large version (shown in image above) feels too bulky and slouchy (for dinner) and the shape and proportions look better on the clutch. As a cross-body, the top handle shoulder bag is wayyy to big against the body.

As a clutch, the silhouette is simply cuter — you can actually see the sculptural design and it looks incredibly chic when carried under the arm. The leather is not too slouchy allowing the bag to maintain its shape. The top handle is nice also as a bold oversized piece, but not neccesarily for an evening out.

In terms of stiching, I am personally not a fan of contrast stitching and this one luckily doesn’t have it. It has this beautifully inconspicuous beige stitching which makes it look precisely crafted.

In terms of hardware, it is minimal. It is not heavy and it feels high quality. It’s also not too bright and garrish.

In terms of leathers, it comes in a grainy soft leather and a stiffer structured leather, the beige one I have is the stiffer leather leather. It is the reason I love the shape so much.

Toteme T Lock Clutch Dimensions

The T lock comes in three sizes: mini T lock clutch, T lock clutch, T lock top handle.

The size is substantial while remaining clutch-appropriate, if that makes sense.

What Fits Inside the Toteme T Lock Clutch?

Ok so the design is almost magical. Here at Stylishly Grounded, we don’t just purchase aesthetically pleasing items or tiny bags because they’re the next micro trend. We love pieces that are classic, elegant, and functional, which is why this bag outperforms many other evening bags. It holds a great deal of items including:

Full wallet
Lipstick
Keys
Compact
Cardholder
Hand sanitizer
Other light makeup (concealer, lip liner etc)
Keys

It opens wide enough to access items easily. It is not frustrating to get in and out of (even one-handed).

Also, even if its unlocked, the design makes it so that items don’t easily fall out of the bag.

Also the lining is made of suede and has a nice soft, feel to it.

Toteme T Lock Quality After One Year

After a year, there were no scuffs on the leather, no corner wear, No hardware chipping and the bag still holds its structure. Considering its beige its still durable; the leather feels sturdy, not thin and maleable.

Is the Toteme T Lock Practical and Functional?

100% yes.

It has a removable strap, which is so useful. I always buy bags with straps. However, aesthetically, the Toteme T Lock clutch looks best when carried… as a clutch. We often recommend multifunctional bags that 1) are practical on their own, 2) have a strap and 3) and can be worn in more ways than one.

Two things to note: 1) You need both hands to lock the bag and 2) the strap is a little short to wear as a cross body. Not the end of the world for me since I use the strap rarely or wear it on my shoulder. I am not a fan of ultra long straps unless they’re easily adjustable.

Is the Toteme T Lock Trendy or Timeless?

The Toteme T Lock is minimalist and architectural. It is clean and has a small logo inside.

The clean structure gives it longevity. This is not a trend piece that will feel dated next season.

Who Should Buy the Toteme T Lock?

Anyyone who wants an evening clutch.

Skip it if: You want an everyday crossbody.

Toteme T Lock Clutch Pricing

The Toteme T Lock comes in at $990 (at the time of writing this article).

For a handbag that costs under $1,000 you get more than what you’d expect. The leather is sturdy, the hardware has weight, it looks far more expensive than it is, and it is multifunctional.