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3 min read
From XL office-friendly options to hand-crafted smaller styles, there’s a woven bag for every occasion.
Once reserved for swanning around a French market in search of a baguette, basket bags have become a staple summer style. Cementing themselves as a go-to for beach days, picnics and even replacing a trusty work tote once the warmer weather kicks in, the woven accessory really can work for any occasion.
But while the bag may have humble beginnings, it’s been doing a little social climbing of late. Luxury labels, including Loewe, Celine and Jacquemus, have added leather and logos to create a trend-led look found in the boujiest of beach bars. But whether worn solely with a swimsuit or complementing a city look of washed jeans and trainers, the beach bum aura these bags bring is always the same: carefree and cool yet completely functional.
Also known as straw or raffia bags, the basket bag comes in many shapes and sizes, from cute clutches to capacious totes. Keep scrolling to see Stylist’s edit of our favourite finds – baguette not included.
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Marni logo-embroidered raffia tote bag
Turning the basket bag into an office-worthy holdall, this Marni style is rather capacious. With enough room for a laptop, water bottle and possibly even a change of shoes (perhaps ballet flats only), it’s a welcome change from your trusty tote.
Shop Marni logo-embroidered raffia tote bag at Coggles, £490
Akatue baby obroni OG bag
Combining traditional Ghanaian weaving styles with tailoring touches learned on Savile Row, Akatue bags are really something special. For those looking to support small artisanal weavers and appreciate the elegance of timeless designs, let us bring this brand to your attention.
Allsaints Jacqueline straw tote bag
Allsaints may be a go-to for all things leather, but the brand does a great basket bag too. Stepping away from the au naturel look of brown and beige straw, this white pick makes the style a touch more modern.
Rixo Sherrie fringed raffia bag
Dress designer Rixo has ventured into basket bags, and they’re just as beautiful as you’d expect. With a flap closure, they’re more secure than some of the other open-top options, making them the perfect pick for both daytime and evenings.
Mango x Simon Miller mini tote bag with shell
Mango’s latest collaboration with LA-based brand Simon Miller has been marked as a must-have by many a fashion fan. With a splattering of shells, it’s sure to bring a seaside feel to any outfit (even if you’re still firmly in the city).
Nali Shop Simone raffia shoulder bag
Looking more like an ice lolly in the shade than an accessory, this bag is certainly summer ready. Crafted from paper and polypropylene, it isn’t the most sturdy but is sure to brighten up any look – just don’t overload it.
Monsoon large embroidered straw basket bag
Adding a flair of florals to the standard straw style, this embroidered shopper is bright, bold and cements that summer feel into the accessory.
Sandro x Louis Barthélemy raffia bag
Combining the classic colours of Sandro with Louis Barthélemy’s graphic prints, this cute bag is certainly colourful. While you won’t be able to load up your laptop (or much else), it’s certainly a sweet style for those lighter load days.
Cult Gaia Sybil leather-trimmed rattan and canvas shoulder bag
Cult Gaia is a gorgeous brand for beach holidays and warm-weather weddings. More structured in shape than the laidback look of some of our other options, this delicate design houses a canvas pouch to stop all your belongings from slipping out.
Shop Cult Gaia Sybil leather-trimmed rattan and canvas shoulder bag at Net-A-Porter, £295
Hush rainbow raffia tote bag
Breaking up the sea of beige bags, this Hush find is perfect for those who prefer a pop of colour.
Helen Kaminski Elle
Another smaller brand that excels when it comes to basket bags, Helen Kaminski pieces are designed to last a lifetime. This adorable circular style with a subtle stripe of purple has truly caught our eye.
Images: courtesy of brands
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