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Designer shopping tote bags are all the craze, from Lulu Guinness shoppers available at Waitrose, the iconic Twiggy bags at M&S, and Anya Hindmarch.
Thankfully Whole Foods Market is collaborating with Anya Hindmarch to bring back the sell-out Universal bag, which is a reusable shopper but more stylish than a bag for life (sorry, not sorry).
The Universal Bag is now in its fourth year, which shows how much it is in demand – who would have thought?
The smart design from fashion house Anya Hindmarch has been crafted from 100% recycled fabric, which is also recyclable, though it’s intended for reuse.
The Universal Bag
Crafted from 100% recycled materials, this rectangular tote bag is large enough to house your groceries, and double up as a work bag too. It features thick woven straps that are comfortable to wear over your shoulder and not give way under weighty contents. The body of the bag comes in a light brown, while the straps are a combination of brown, white and green. It also features Anya Hindmarch’s signature eyes motif on the front.
The 2025 tote bag maintains its iconic look, as it is a large tote design in a light brown body with brown, white and forest green handles, which are sturdy thanks to the durable fabric and tight weave. It also features Anya Hindmarch’s wandering eyes motif on the front.
The Anya Hindmarch shopper will be available to buy exclusively at London’s Kings Road store from August 11, but it will also be available from all six UK Whole Foods Markets from August 18.
The best part is the designer supermarket tote is super affordable at just £12.99. Yes, it’s more expensive than your typical bag for life, but it is a lot less than designer tote bags from Anya Hindmarch that can fetch three figures.
The bag is said to have a 10-year guarantee, so it is a worthy investment you will certainly get your cost per wear out of, even if you only use it for your weekly food shop, though it’s large enough to double as your work bag to carry your laptop.
If your bag is looking worn, it has a built-in freepost returns system so it can be fully recycled in the UK.
Speaking about the initiative, Anya Hindmarch said: ‘The Universal Bag project has saved over 330 tonnes of virgin plastic from landfill since launch in 2021. Plastic pollution remains a pressing issue but working together with major global food retailers shows how the solution needs to be collaborative.’
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get shopping for the bag, and your groceries too.
Of course, should you not be able to get to a Whole Foods, we’ve picked out some gorgeous Anya Hindmarch bits that are utterly gorgeous!
Anya Brands Kikkoman Candle
The Kikkoman Candle is the quirky gift you didn’t know you needed. Designed with die-hard soy sauce fans in mind, it’s a slick black jar that nods to the iconic bottle – logo and all. But it’s not just about looks. The scent is surprisingly luxe, blending neroli, saffron, patchouli, amber and vanilla for a warm, umami-inspired vibe that’s more bougie than bento box.
Bespoke Small Loose Pocket
Anya Hindmarch’s Small Loose Pocket is a stylish, personalised leather pouch – ideal for gifting. It can be customised with a message and used for everyday essentials. For something more sentimental, the Bespoke range offers handcrafted heirlooms featuring monograms, drawings, and messages embossed by expert artisans.
Wink Sunglasses Holder
This mustard-yellow sunglasses holder from Anya Hindmarch is pure joy in accessory form. With its cheeky winking face and buttery capra leather, it’s the kind of piece that brightens your day every time you grab your shades. It’s got a popper fastening, gold-tone clasp and an optional long strap for hands-free wear – practical, but make it playful.
Bespoke Medium Keepsake Box
Anya Hindmarch Bespoke is all about meaningful gifting – think beautiful materials, expert craftsmanship, and pieces that tell a story. This zip-around leather keepsake box is effortlessly chic and endlessly useful, whether it’s for jewellery, trinkets or little life mementos. You can personalise it with a name, initials or even a handwritten message for that extra thoughtful touch.
Eyes Striped Pouch
With bold paintbox stripes and a pair of cheeky leather eyes, this pouch is guaranteed to add personality to your everyday tote. It’s made from recycled plastic (eco points!) and trimmed with grainy goat leather for a luxe finish. The tasselled zip adds a fun touch, while the roomy interior keeps your essentials – tissues, makeup, keys, earphones – neatly in check.
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