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. My most recent new straw bag is this large jute tote with leather rope handles. I picked this up at MANGO during one of their recent sales (still going on!). It’s perfect for hauling my beach towel, sunscreen, and my latest book to the pool. But also perfect to bring to the park for a little picnic. Because yes, those are happening more often these days! Once we can travel again, it’ll be a great personal bag for trips too.
There’s also two other straw or woven bags that I have gotten a TON of use out of. This Hat Attack top handle bag has survived so much use over the years. 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 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!
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.
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
