Dior — bags
Dior Book Tote
$3,500
Details
The Dior Book Tote is a large embroidered canvas tote bag priced at $3,500, introduced by Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri for the Fall/Winter 2018 collection. The medium size measures 14.2 x 10.2 x 6.5 inches and features the Dior Oblique pattern woven into Jacquard canvas with “CHRISTIAN DIOR” embroidered prominently across the front. Available in blue Oblique, black, ecru, and seasonal variations including Toile de Jouy prints, the Book Tote is designed as an everyday carryall with no closure, double top handles, and a flat base. It has become one of Dior’s best-selling bags and a favorite for travel and daily use.
Overview
The Book Tote was designed to carry books and personal items with ease. Its large, open format and graphic branding make it both functional and visually striking. Key features include:
- Open-top design: No zipper, clasp, or closure mechanism
- Double top handles: Short flat handles with 5.5-inch drop for hand or arm carry
- Structured rectangular shape: Flat base allows the bag to stand upright
- “CHRISTIAN DIOR” embroidery: Bold branding across the front panel
- Oblique pattern: Diagonal “Christian Dior” text woven into the canvas
- Interior pocket: One flat slip pocket inside
Available in three sizes:
- Small: 9.4 x 7.9 x 4.5 inches
- Medium: 14.2 x 10.2 x 6.5 inches (most popular)
- Large: 16.5 x 13.4 x 7.5 inches
Materials & Construction
The standard Book Tote uses Dior’s Oblique Jacquard canvas:
- Jacquard woven canvas: Heavy-duty textile with the Oblique pattern woven directly into the fabric (not printed)
- Cotton composition: Primarily cotton with synthetic reinforcement for durability
- Leather handles: Smooth calfskin handles with edge painting
- Textile lining: Cotton canvas interior lining
- Reinforced base: Stiffened bottom panel for structure
Special editions use additional techniques:
- Toile de Jouy embroidery: Pastoral scenes embroidered on canvas
- Metallic thread: Gold and silver threaded versions for evening
- Leather: Full calfskin versions at higher price points ($5,000+)
The bag weighs approximately 1.5 lbs (medium) and is relatively lightweight for its size.
Pricing & Value
| Version | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Oblique Canvas | Small | $3,250 |
| Oblique Canvas | Medium | $3,500 |
| Oblique Canvas | Large | $3,750 |
| Toile de Jouy | Medium | $3,800 |
| Leather | Medium | $5,000+ |
Pre-owned Book Totes in Oblique canvas sell for $2,200-$3,200 in excellent condition. Limited-edition prints (Dior x Shawn Stussy, seasonal florals) hold value better. The bag retains 65-85% of retail value depending on colorway and condition.
Styling Tips
- Travel Essential: The open-top format makes the Book Tote ideal as a personal item on flights; the large size doubles as a carry-on tote
- Beach to City: The canvas construction is durable enough for casual beach use while looking polished in urban settings
- Personalization: Dior offers ABCDior customization with colored straps and charms to personalize the Book Tote
- Use an Insert: Since the bag has no closure, use a felt organizer insert to protect contents and add interior structure
Questions
Questions about Dior Book Tote
How much does the Dior Book Tote cost? ▾
The Dior Book Tote in Oblique embroidered canvas starts at $3,500 for the medium size. The small is $3,250 and the large is $3,750. Leather and limited-edition versions can reach $5,000+.
Does the Dior Book Tote have a zipper? ▾
No, the standard Dior Book Tote is an open-top bag with no closure. Dior sells a separate insert pouch and some versions include interior snap buttons, but the original design is fully open.
Can you fit a laptop in the Dior Book Tote? ▾
Yes, the medium Book Tote (14.2 x 10.2 x 6.5 inches) fits a 13-inch laptop. The large (16.5 x 13.4 x 7.5 inches) fits a 15-inch laptop comfortably.
Is the Dior Book Tote embroidered by hand? ▾
The Oblique canvas is produced on Jacquard looms, not hand-embroidered. However, some limited-edition versions feature hand-embroidered motifs including flowers, animals, and Toile de Jouy scenes.