What should you look for in a reusable shopping bag? One that can stand by itself makes it easier to load groceries. Also consider how a bag will hold up to dirt and how easy it is to clean. You may prefer bags that stow away neatly if you want them handy for impromptu shopping, or often walk to shop.

And of course, find a style you like and you will use—and reuse—your bags more. Here are some ideas:

I’m Not A Plastic Bag

Who ever imagined that a reusable shopping bag could become a must-have fashion item? Designer Anya Hindmarch’s “I’m Not A Plastic Bag”—a $15 limited edition cloth bag designed to “make it fashionable not to use plastic bags”—was a worldwide hit. Her boutique in Short Hills, NJ, for example, sold out of its 1,000 bags in just 90 minutes. Unfortunately, “limited edition” means a trip to eBay if you want one now—and expect to pay a premium. Still, the message is clear: you can reduce, reuse, recycle, and look fabulous!

I’m Not A Paper Bag

What if your paper supermarket bag had a lifetime warrantee? The ACME EarthTote™ has the dimensions of a paper bag, but is made from 600 denier Cordura nylon. (Yes, that’s a lot more rugged than paper.) Lifetime guarantee. Easy to clean and stands on its own. $15.95 at reusablebags.com.

Modern Bag

For lovers of modern form and function, Design Within Reach offers a palette of four versatile bags that can add a level of sophistication to your next supermarket trip. Made of plastic-coated tarpaulin, these large waterproof bags can even tackle rugged duties like composting. Velcro tabs let you group them together in your kitchen for eye-catching recycling bins that stand well on their own. Each bag has a plastic window for adding included labels or your own. $22 for a set. designwithinreach.com.

Envirosax

Imagine the cashier’s surprise when you stealthily unfurl your Envirosax® bags with “retro kitchen” graphics. Made from waterproof polyester, these bags are thin and light (1.4 oz!), yet can carry the contents of two supermarket bags. Sets of five offer variations on hip themes like “monochromatic” and “retro graphic”. There’s even a matching pouch bag so you can stash the whole set into a medium sized handbag. You can also buy bags à la carte, and get organic versions made from hemp, bamboo, and linen. $35 per set of five. envirosax.com.

This Plastic Is Good

1 Bag at a Time offers a single, well-designed reusable shopping bag. It holds as much as 3-4 plastic bags, stands on its own, and can be machine washed. Made from plastic, it can even be recycled itself when you finally wear it out. Talk about recycle! It’s a more economical option at $19.90 for 10 bags. 1bagatatime.com.

L.L. Bean

They carried your school books—now they can carry your groceries. L.L. Bean canvas totes have a classic preppy design that is simple and tough. A bit pricey compared with other options perhaps, but then you may already have a half dozen of these laying around. You can even get them monogrammed. llbean.com

Big Deal

A spacious tent of a bag for 59 cents, the IKEA Blue Bag may be the best deal going. It’s light, tough, and big. Very big. If you like to buy cereal or toilet paper in bulk—this is the bag for you. Also makes an excellent family beach bag, laundry bag, and at least 101 other uses. Get them at IKEA, in-store only. ikea.com

Supermarket Specials

Do you shop at several different supermarkets? Have you noticed they all have their own reusable shopping bags for about a dollar or two? These are a great convenience, and could be all you ever need. While they are customarily branded with the store’s logo, don’t be shy about toting them along to a competing store—this is getting to be a common sight!

Can you take it with you?

Once you’ve got your bags, you may actually find it to be a real challenge remembering to bring them along when shopping. Make a routine of putting them away in the car or near your front door—and happy shopping!