Trader Joe’s Pastel Mini Tote Craze — and How Your Brand Can Ride the Wave
Apr 18, 2025
/
Bags
Introduction
In April 2025, Trader Joe’s dropped the now-infamous pastel mini tote bags. Priced at just $2.99 and available in soft, candy-colored hues like mint, lavender, bubblegum pink, and baby blue, these palm-sized totes are cute, collectible, and a fun twist on their classic bag style. Within hours, stores were wiped out. Within days, listings popped up online with resale prices soaring into the hundreds, and even thousands, of dollars. Yes, people were shelling out $1,000 for a bag that originally cost less than a cup of coffee.
So… what happened?
Image Courtesy of Jason Hidalgo/RGJ
A Perfect Storm of Aesthetics + Scarcity
The totes hit all the right notes: nostalgic Y2K energy, “quiet luxury” simplicity, and the kind of IRL utility Gen Z and millennials love. But it wasn’t just the look, scarcity played a big part. People couldn’t find them anywhere, which made them want them even more. TikTok lit up with videos of people racing to their local Trader Joe’s, styling the bags with outfits, and of course, flipping them on eBay.
And while Trader Joe’s has since said they’ll restock the bags this summer, one thing is clear: branded mini totes are in.
Image Courtesy of John Taggart/The New York Times
Want the Look? You Can Make Your Own (Yes, Really)
At Brand+Aid®, we help brands create merch that taps into these exact kinds of cultural moments. Whether you’re running a café, a record label, or a tech startup, there’s no reason your logo can't be on the next must-have mini tote.
Want that same pastel palette? Done. Want custom embroidery? No problem. Want to go eco-friendly with recycled cotton or canvas? Absolutely. We can even help you dream up your own collector’s series with seasonal drops or limited-edition colorways.
Why Mini Totes Are a Smart Move for Your Brand
Low cost, high impact: Like the Trader Joe’s bag, mini totes are budget-friendly to make but wildly desirable to your audience.
Unisex, universal appeal: From a functional errand bag to a fashion-forward accessory, people use these bags, and your brand goes with them.
Easy to customize: Whether you want something minimalist or loud, printed or embroidered, we can help design something that fits your vibe.
Totally giftable: Mini totes are the perfect client gift, trade show giveaway, or online shop staple.
Real Examples We Can Help You Create
Here are a few mini tote project ideas we’ve helped develop (or would love to):
“Soft launch” bags for new brands or product drops
Matcha green mini totes for a coffee shop’s spring line
Mini artist collab bags sold at concerts or on tour
Festival grab bags with zines, patches, and goodies
Corporate holiday gifts with a tote + desk essentials inside
Conclusion
Let’s Make Your Own “It Bag”
The Trader Joe’s mini tote might be sold out for now, but that doesn’t mean the moment’s over. If anything, it’s just beginning. Audiences want merch that feels cool, intentional, and worth showing off. This is just the latest proof that branded merch isn't just swag, it's culture.
Whether you want something that feels like it belongs on a vintage Pinterest board or a sleek, modern mini bag with your branding, we can help you bring it to life.
Want to make your own version?
Contact us today and let’s make a bag your audience will go crazy for.
