Come summer, I always do a swap of my bags. I end up putting a lot of my heavier leather purses towards the back of the closet and move my lighter summer bags to the front. Sure I have a few lighter leather bags that are great for summer. This blush one and this Everlane bag are great.
But there’s something that feels more exciting about a straw bag. They instantly make your look feel like summer. And honestly, like you’re ready for vacation. I find myself always using these bags whenever I head to a warm-weather destination.
Straw bags are perfect for a warm weather vacation!
Over the last few years, I’ve been collecting straw, woven, and rattan bags. They’ve surprisingly survived the wear and tear of everyday use and even traveling. From clutches to totes, they’re great to have as part of your summer bag collection for completing your outfits. But also perfect to bring to the park for a little picnic.
There are also two other straw or woven bags that I have gotten a TON of use out of. From big totes that go from beach to shopping, to top handle bags for dinners, a straw bag is a great accessory to have on hand. And my go-to rattan crossbody bag that I snagged on Amazon last minute before a trip is seriously the best $25 I’ve ever spent.
It’s the perfect size to head out for the night with just the essentials. A red lipstick and your iPhone of course. It’s a bag I always bring with me on getaways since it’s easy to pack and goes with everything!

The Best Straw Bags For Summer
There are so many great straw and rattan to even wicker bags to shop for right now. From small crossbodies, totes, bucket bags and even clutches. No matter the occasion, a straw bag can really be great for so many looks.
Pair them with just jean shorts and a linen top for the most effortless summer look. But also try a straw clutch or small rattan handbag with a summer cocktail dress perfect for events. If you’re looking to add one of these straw bags to your closet, I’m rounding up my favorites below.


Straw Tote Bags
I love having a good tote bag for summer. They’re super versatile in that I can wear it to run errands, to work at my co-work space with my laptop, or even head to the pool with them. My go-to bag in my closet is my Madewell Transport tote and it’s because the size is so good.
I always aim for my totes to be roughly that size knowing I’ll get the most use out of it. I recently added this caning tote bag from Bembien to my wardrobe and it’s become a regular favorite. It’s big enough for my laptop, but also light and summery enough to pair with a sundress for dinner al fresco. This one has been in my cart and I’m eager to pull the trigger. Would make for a great travel tote too!

Straw Clutches & Evening Bags
For tropical vacations or happy hour with girlfriends for summer, a straw clutch for the evening is an easy way to turn a little black dress into a little black summer dress. It’s amazing how quickly an outfit feels more vacation-ready when you swap your leather clutch for a straw clutch. If there’s one bag you add to your summer wardrobe that I know you’ll have for years, it’s a fun straw clutch!
The above bamboo Cult Gaia bag was truly a cult classic, no pun intended. This was the ultimate blogger bag in the mid 2010’s. I’m personally looking to update this bag as it feels a tad dated and a good Millennial style update you could make. Below are a few great options to try.
Straw Crossbody Bags
Right before I went on this vacation a few years ago, I Amazon Primed a straw crossbody bag to have. I just felt like it would be so convenient to wear around when heading out to dinner. And boy was I right. It became my go-to bag for the trip just fitting my iPhone, tiny travel wallet (can’t recommend a small wallet enough for trips) and chapstick or lipstick.
There are a few sizes and shapes and I definitely went with what was likely the smallest. So any of these will probably fit a few more things like maybe your sunglasses and a few other compact items.

Black Straw Bags For Summer And Colorful Bags
While it’s nice to have the lighter beige and cream bags for summer, I do love the look of something darker, like a black straw bag. Or even a fun color. It can be a great way to add more color and interest to your look for the summer. Or if you want to do an all black look, a black bag works better and you don’t have to grab your heavy leather bag for the warm weather.

Striped Raffia Bag • Rattan Mini Tote • Circle Woven Bag • Circle Crossbody • Wicker Clutch • Top Handle Bag • Jute Tote • Woven Tote With Fabric Handles • Wicker & Leather Bag
Photo by Hannah Lozano


