The Chicest Basket Bags For Vacations And Beyond
Whether you’re visiting an exotic beachside locale or simply styling out summer in the city, a woven or raffia basket bag is the perfect finishing touch to alfresco dressing – and these are the must-have styles of the season
In summer, we’re naturally drawn to clothes in lighter natural fabrics and easy shapes – and the same can be said for our accessories. Made famous by Jane Birkin in the ’60s and ’70s, a basket bag captures the insouciance of alfresco living like nothing else – and we don’t just mean on vacation (Birkin famously carried hers everywhere she went, from French farmers’ markets to glamorous parties).
A must-have for sun-drenched beach days and relaxed mornings by the pool, Aquazzura’s raffia tote is sweetly embellished with lemons – and roomy enough for your sunglasses, SPF and a good book – plus it’s exclusive to NET-A-PORTER this season. Meanwhile, Sensi Studio’s style is ideal for soaking up the sights of a new city or enjoying lunch by the sea. Woven by hand with toquilla straw, it is dyed in verdant shades of green – creating a beautiful ombré effect – and artfully frayed along the top.
For a great all-rounder, DeMellier’s ‘Santorini’ tote, from our NET SUSTAIN edit of consciously crafted pieces, is a chic choice. It’s wrapped in black leather for structure and has plenty of space inside for essentials – including a small makeup bag and water bottle. Slip Rabanne’s striped bucket style over your shoulder and pair with a vibrant cover-up by day, or a maxi dress and strappy sandals for dinner at sunset. Elsewhere, Gucci’s embellished carryall is a playful and practical choice for alfresco picnics.
Elevate summer workwear with Hunting Season’s straw tote. The structured, leather-trimmed design feels timeless and is the perfect size for your laptop. Wear it to the office with tailored shorts and ballet flats, or a breezy dress and sneakers on more casual days. Elsewhere, the ‘Puzzle Fold’ by Loewe Paula’s Ibiza will fit seamlessly into your everyday rotation – just add a bucket hat and shades for countryside walks. The collapsible design makes it easy to pack, too.