Our Concept

Every country has its own market bag. From the richly woven bags of Peru to the durable reed sacks of Africa, the beautiful shopping baskets of France, or the leather pouches of Tibet, people around the world have always used their own resources available to produce a carryall that can be used and reused.

In 1995, Tote Le Monde embraced the market bag concept by introducing the American Market Tote Collection, great for shopping, a day at the beach or that perfect weekend getaway. Tote Le Monde soon became branded for its American Market Tote and recyclable plastic material. We have since developed luggage, house wares, and personal accessories out of our signature, environmentally friendly, chic material.

Our Company

Tote Le Monde was founded by Tia Wou in 1994 to create functional and beautiful accessories to "carry the world!" Tia's design interest developed at an early age. Her architect father shared his passion with her, cultivating an appreciation for clean, aesthetic lines - reflected in the architectural elements of Tote Le Monde products.

After her first trip to Bolivia for her highschool friend Anna's wedding, Tia was inspired by the local craftsmanship. Once Tia had conceptualized Tote Le Monde's first collection, she contacted Anna who was raising her family there. Together Anna and Tia worked with a team of Bolivian craftsmen to translate Tia's designs into well crafted handbags. After their many trips to the market in Bolivia, they realized the U.S. was behind the trend. They set out to create an environmentally friendly, durable, functional yet fashionable carryall, thus introducing the American Market Tote Collection made out of recyclable plastic.

In the tradition of all independent entrepreneurs, Tia sold the first collection from boutique to boutique herself, while Anna oversaw the production of each bag. The collection has grown and is now carried by major department stores, such as Barneys, Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel, and in boutiques worldwide. Tote Le Monde products have received recognition from high fashion press such as Elle, Elle Decor, InStyle and Oprah. Their bags have been seen on television shows Sex in the City, Ally McBeal and Will and Grace and celebrities Cameron Diaz, Jenna Elfman and Ashley Judd.

Tote Le Monde remains entrepreneurial in spirit with employees working out of a loft in New York's flower district. Tia splits her time between New York, California and South America to ensure that Tote Le Monde's mission is upheld - to create innovative designs where function finds form.