Spring is in full swing (with high pollen count alerts to prove it) which means it’s time to start thinking about raffia. Raffia is synonymous with warm weather style. It serves as an effortless way to add texture and interest to an outfit. These days you can find the natural fiber in a variety of clothing and accessories, including bags, shoes, hats, belts, and jewelry.
I gravitate towards bags that have more sophisticated details like a leather trim, hardware/chain strap, or an interesting shape. Those details increase versatility — allowing for ease when styling from day to night and in a variety of locales (not just beach or poolside). Below are some ways I’ve styled raffia over the years, plus new season items (not just bags) that caught my eye. If you’re in the market for a raffia refresh, read on for a round up of the best woven items I’ve found.
I fell in love with wide brim raffia bucket hats last summer. They’re a departure from the wide brim fedora style I would typically wear — I think it is the playfulness that drew me to the bucket hat. This style from Jenni Kayne has a wire in the trim of the brim so you can fold the brim up. If you prefer a look for less, similar here.
As much as I love the look of a luxury designer raffia bag, I’ve focused my round up on items under $600 with two outlier bags under $800. Some of the brands included below are also highlighted in my roundup of 10 Stylish Handbag Brands Under $500.
I love the structured shape of this mini top handle raffia/jute bag from The Curated. The light beige colorway is incredibly versatile. It is currently 70% off and on sale for $50. There is an interior side pocket, but no zippered compartment, so you may want to add your own zippered pouch to keep your items more secure.
A close up so you can really appreciate the jute texture and stitched trim of the mini bag.
Caterina Bertini is a longtime favorite brand of mine for handmade raffia bags. The silhouette of this front flap style with the chain handle is reminiscent of a classic Chanel bag. The Italian brand is stocked at Shopbop and Tuckernuck, but often sells out. You can buy directly from the brand, but if you go that route, be prepared to pay for international shipping.
A classic french market tote is perfect to serve as a carryall at the farmers market, for all day errands through the city, or on a European vacation. Tie a silk scarf on the straps for a chic finishing detail. You can often find these totes for well under $100, like this one, just be sure to check measurements or message the sellers for more details before checking out.
Sezane has a great selection of high quality raffia totes in a variety of sizes (mini, small, and maxi) and different colorways. This is the Justine basket in the small size with the natural leather trim (a deep navy shade). I love the dual handles for versatility and the internal drawstring pouch for added security. I carried mine frequently last summer and plan to do so again this year! The mini and small versions are both under $300.
Cesta Collective is another brand I always look towards for woven accessories. The bags are handmade by artisans in Rwanda using local, renewable resources. The bags are then hand finished with leather trims in Italian ateliers.
And a final bucket hat look for good measure! It really is so cute.
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Until next time,
Kelly
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Love raffia for spring and summer! There's something so chic and effortless about it in accessories.