Few things say warm weather like raffia bags—and according to New York-based style expert Noelle Gaetano, “they are the perfect summer accessory.” The woven bag and many of its iterations are evocative of the laissez-faire attitude that many of us aspire towards in the summertime, when the temperature is high and humidity hangs heavy in the air. No longer reserved for the beach, the best raffia bags—once only synonymous with a basket shape—come in various sizes and forms, with hardware, buckles, or leather straps, lending it versatility and everyday purpose. With the right one, it can take you from the boardwalk to workday to weekend barbecues, picnics, and beyond without a hitch.
“There are many different types,” says Angela Denae, New York-based personal stylist and owner of Angela Denae Style Studio, adding: “I think everyone should have at least one.” So with that in mind, and with advice of Denae and Gaetano, we rounded up 12 raffia bags for summer. On the list, find everything from oversized to mini bags in timeless and of-the-moment silhouettes for every budget, all ready and raring to carry you through your warm-weather escapades. Trust, they’ll make summertime styling (and living) as easy as it should be. Scroll ahead to find 12 of the best raffia bags.
Our picks for raffia bags, at a glance
- The budget pick under $55: The Drop Xiomara Mini Tote, $55
- A day-to-night clutch: 8 Other Reasons Raffia Bag, $90
- An easy-to-carry crossbody bag: Quince Italian Leather and Raffia Crossbody, $100
- A work-friendly satchel: American Leather Co. Lenox Triple Entry Raffia Satchel, $100
- An understated carry-all bag: Jenni Kayne Crossbody Bag, $116
- An oversized sling bag: COS Raffia Sling Bag, $135
- A summer-friendly riff on the popular moon bag:Staud Moon Raffia Tote Bag, $295
- A bucket bag with nostalgic appeal: Cult Gaia Enya Leather-Trimmed Raffia Bucket Bag, $214
- A modern take on the classic basket bag: Sézane Justine Basket, $285
- A fun multicolored option: AAKS Tia Grande Raffia Bag, $276
- A punchy striped number: A.L.C. Simone Bag, $295
- A sophisticated structured bag: Loeffler Randall Desi Crossbody Bag, $325
Shop the best raffia bags
The Drop’s Xiomara Mini Tote exudes quiet luxury, but it’s only a fraction of the cost of pricier options. It features faux-leather top handles and removable shoulder straps, and it has a structured silhouette that will offer instant polish to your outfits—be it casual or dressy. You also have options in terms of color: Apart from the option featured above, you can select from black, pink, or blue, each of which feature various-colored leather trimmings. And, at under $55, it’s a sure steal.
Size: 10” x 10” x 1”
Colors: 4
Whether for a wedding or beach vacation, this 8 Other Reasons clutch is made from raffia to boast an artisanal feel, while the acrylic tortoiseshell accent adds a touch of visual interest. Far from a one-trick wonder, it transforms into a shoulder or crossbody bag with a removable strap—and the magnetic snap closure will keep your stuff secure. The best part about this day-to-night clutch is that it can make the most straightforward of outfits, like a jeans and a white T-shirt or a little black dress look pulled together in a hot minute.
Size: 14.25” x 6.25” x 2”
Colors: 1
Quince’s Italian Leather and Raffia Crossbody bag is ideal for the busy lifestyle, or whenever you want a bag that will transport you from one situation to the next without weighing you down. This pick is an easy, breezy, hands-free way to carry your belongings, and better yet, the strap is removable, so it can double as a clutch. What’s more, its simple silhouette is ideal for endless styling possibilities, and it will look right at home in an urban setting as on a tropical vacation. Select from two colors: light and dark brown.
Size: 6” x 8” x 3”
Colors: 2
Leave a Reply