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The Best Straw and Raffia Bags To Buy This Summer
From Loewe's blockbuster summer drop to the chicest options from the high street, these are the very best summer bags of the year
In recent years, the straw bag has well and truly transcended its summer-holiday roots. No longer reserved for that hazy week on a European coastline, a woven basket or raffia tote can now be called on for the local food shop, picnics in the park, the morning commute, and pretty much any other summer situation.
Of course, we’ve largely got Loewe’s annual collaboration with Paula’s Ibiza to thank for the straw bag resurgence – and this year’s drop is clearly set for sell-out status – but there are now plenty of luxe options to elevate your summer wardrobe with.
For something that looks just as good in the city, consider Prada’s refined woven-straw tote, or use Ganni's bold colour pops to energise pale blue denim. Look to Givenchy for a woven basket with unexpected edge, or keep it classic with Khaite’s sublime leather-trimmed design.
And, happily, the high street is all over the trend too, so there's something for every budget. We're in love with H&M's classic styles (which sell out quickly every year, so be fast), and the likes of Mango and Zara have also released some outstanding versions.
Here, see the ELLE fashion team’s verdict on the best straw bags for summer and beyond.
Here it is: the bag of the season in the material of the summer. Consider JW Anderson's woven Bumper bag the ultimate It accessory.
Dior single-handedly sparked the rise of the luxe tote with its coveted Book design, and this season there's a perfectly summery iteration to invest in. Part of the Dioriviera collection, this natural raffia bag is woven using the brand's signature Cannage technique, and features handles just long enough to swing over one shoulder.
Loewe Paula's Ibiza Leather-Trimmed Raffia Bucket Bag
Loewe Paula's Ibiza Leather-Trimmed Raffia Bucket Bag
The original (and still the most coveted), Loewe's basket bag combines a classic design with the most refined craftsmanship. The raffia body is trimmed in tan leather, and has a drawstring canvas lining to keep the contents secure. An investment piece you'll call upon year after year.
Supersized totes are, quite literally, big news right now. Tick off two trends in one with Mango's supersized black woven shopper, into which you can stuff everything from your gym kit to your beach towel.
Zara's structured black basket bag will look so chic against crumped beige linen separates.
Givenchy Voyou Medium Buckled Leather-Trimmed Straw Tote
Givenchy Voyou Medium Buckled Leather-Trimmed Straw Tote
Givenchy's sleek black leather buckled straps subvert the feminine feel of this beige straw bucket bag. With handles long enough to swing from one shoulder, it's a strong choice for city days.
Trimmed with vibrant orange leather, Ganni's tote bag will look just as good on a city weekend as it will a beachy break.
Jacquemus Le Panier Soleil Petite Woven Straw Tote Bag
Jacquemus Le Panier Soleil Petite Woven Straw Tote Bag
It's Jacquemus, it's edged in leather, it's extremely cute...
Loewe Paula's Ibiza Embroidered Two-Tone Raffia Tote
Loewe Paula's Ibiza Embroidered Two-Tone Raffia Tote
Loewe's collaboration with legendary Ibiza boutique Paula's returns this summer, and this black woven-raffia tote is set to be the most in-demand piece. It's surprisingly structured, and features a smooth black leather pocket inside to keep your keys and wallet together.
Cos' signature minimalism takes on a softer form in this woven-raffia bag, which is perfectly sized for your everyday essentials.
Hindmarch's signature cartoon eyes are somehow even more adorable when set on summery orange raffia.
Monday specialises in note-perfect beachwear, so it should come as little surprise to hear the brand also makes the ideal holiday tote. The Paloma is made from raffia and fully lined in cotton, with a small slip pocket to tuck your phone safely into.
Another seriously refined option, Prada's woven straw bag is slim yet supple, and will look chic with everything from breezy summer dresses to a simple tee and jeans.
Kuwait-born Haya Al Abdulkareem graduated Central St Martins with a mission to create contemporary statement accessories that bridge the price-point gulf between the big luxury players and the high street.
With Folklore, she has triumphed. The brand may be best known for its glittering party pieces, but this straw bag is a sleeper hit for the summer: it's woven from straw in Spain with a supple leather trim, and features the brand's signature thread-through handle.
This huge straw shopper is perfect for lazy days on the beach. And once you're back on home soil? Use it for the Sunday food shop.
Supersized and satisfyingly slouchy, this woven raffia tote is pepped up with pastel-blue stripes.
Trust Khaite to turn the humble raffia bag into a seriously chic proposition. This scaled-up design is neatly folded at the base, and trimmed with supple black calfskin for a sleek contrast. Carry it in the city as well as by the coast.
Muuñ George Canvas-Trim Woven Basket Bag
Muuñ George Canvas-Trim Woven Basket Bag
Shining a spotlight on traditional Ghanaian craftsmanship, Muuñ's traditional straw totes are made from elephant grass by a collective of female artisans in Bolgatanga. This one features black cotton handles and a bold green pouch to keep your small essentials safe.
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