Basket bags are more than vacation staples—here’s what to invest in

There’s no better summer accessory!

Aug 19, 2024 | by Bani Sachar

Celebrities and fashion girlies alike are ditching leather and nylon bags for the perfect boho-chic alternative—cane, straw, and raffia basket bags! Their off-duty appeal has made them a must-have accessory for every look. The undeniably alluring style has evolved from a quirky accessory brought back from an exotic holiday to a versatile high-fashion investment (read: Gucci’s straw tote or Loewe’s Paseo basket). The straw and raffia pieces we're seeing this season are not only holdalls suitable to chuck a magazine or a pair of sunnies into, but stylish embellished totes, rattan clutches, and elaborate cross-body pouches that can be used at work, the beach, and even the club.

And it’s not just transient! The art of weaving bags from natural materials like dried grass or bamboo is millennia-old, with basketry techniques dating back to ancient Egypt. The straw tote came to be seen as a stylish item associated with luxurious travel in the 1950s and sold in holiday destinations as a boho chic souvenir. That was until the likes of Jane Birkin and Audrey Hepburn picked them up, especially for their European escapes, in Cannes and Holland, notably.

The material has seen a surge in popularity over the past couple of seasons, with designers competing to create the perfect holiday bag. What’s different though is how raffia bags have started to appear in urban contexts, turning into an everyday fashion staple rather than just a beach bag. The traditional getaway-ready style is proving itself in a world of city-sleek silhouettes, too—corporate girls are adding a hint of whimsy to their outfits with a raffia-woven tote bag to hold all their workplace essentials.

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While there are many distinctive styles to discover, from sculptural top-handle bags to convertible crossbody silhouettes and minimalist totes, the material is the most vital detail here. For durability, straw and raffia designs mixed with leather or full-woven leather styles are a safe bet. From charming buckets to everyday small totes and even occasion bags, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a piece beyond the ordinary, imaginative brands like Cult Gaia and Alaia offer cage-like cane and bamboo bags.

The endless possibilities of styling raffia have proven that this material is indeed a practical and fashionable addition to your wardrobe and there’s no reason to restrict it to a certain place or occasion. So instead of carrying your laptop in your usual office bag, pick your favourite basket tote and trick yourself into thinking you’re walking to the beach.

Below are some of our favourite styles.

Saint Laurent Panier Raffia Bag, ₹99,900