Hello to you all and to Summer! Though its not yet summer here in California, I am already shopping for everything summer related and in this post I want to share my top Splurge worthy Straw bags, some of them I have already purchased and some are in my wishlist. I also found there budget friendly alternatives that are equally awesome to rock this summer.
So, there is a bag for all of you fashionistas in every budget.
Why I Love Straw Handbags?
I love to add a bit of Natural material to my style for summer which brings me closer to my tropical life as a kid. Hence I incorporate them in my handbags and straw hats (Blog Post Coming Soon) which are the easiest way to add a beach or summer vibe to your look.
In whichever culture you look into, there is a variation of these handbags that are perfect for everyday use like getting groceries, flowers and fruits from the market.
Or take all your goodies in it for your next Picnic in the park or the on the beach. These bags originated with an intent of general utility and evolved into a style statement.
You would probably see a Parisian rocking then now in the streets of Paris or probably on a Vineyard. These bags naturally create a feminine and romantic style to even the most casual outfit. This is the reason I love them the most.
I could easily rock them all year around but they are a bit touch to carry during wet winters. This is the main reason, I love to use them in Spring and Summer to add a bit more of earthy tone and color to my overall Style.
This year, I finally pulled the plug and decided to invest in some pretty straw handbags which you will be seeing a lot of in the coming summer months.
Loewe Raffia Tote Bag
This is one of the most timeless bags created and I see this coming back year after year on Loewe’s website and other stores as well. The simple yet powerful design makes it really versatile, you can wear it with Jeans and a T shirt and still look chic or you can pair it with the dressiest summer dress.
I have always been a fan of Loewe bag designs which are modern and absolutely different from other brands. Even from far away you can spot a Loewe bag. And its the same with this bag.
The embossed logo design makes it really unique and modern. The brands logo itself is absolutely modern so no doubt it looks awesome on the leather.
I personally prefer the medium size which is what I have in yellow. Its the perfect size that you can carry and also enough roomy for loads of stuff in it.
The interior of the bag is simple and made out of just straw which is perfect because if you get anything like a fruit or vegetable that is wet, you are not damaging the bag.
But the best part about the bag are the adjustable shoulder straps which is the main reason I picked this bag. It retails for around $550.
The Budget Alternative
I found an amazingly similar style in Etsy for a fraction of the price of Loewe. This bag actually comes in 3 sizes, so if you rather pick a bigger one that the Loewe bag option, you can absolutely do so.
It also comes with adjustable straps which is amazing isn’t it. And it also has all of the leather details like the Loewe bag. So, if you are looking to try out the straw tote bag style and unsure if you want to splurge on the Loewe Tote bag, try this one instead.
I always think its a good idea to try out a style before you commit to it. The medium size of the bag is priced for around $47.
Miu Miu Wicker and Leather Shoulder Bag
I had eyes on this bag since last year and for a good reason. Another timeless design that you can rock from day to night. A crossbody bag is an essential for any occasion and this one adds a perfect summer touch to the style of bag.
The bag weaving detail of the bag is wicker, which always looks way more luxurious than straw, hence making this bag perfect for most dressed up events and gatherings. I also love the fact that it still looks like a traditional crossbody bag in its style, but the wicker body it will give your outfit the summer look that it needs.
I love that it has vintage touch to its style with a lock feature that gives it a trunk like style. I bought this white leather version of the bag which I can wear with any outfit.
The bag is cloth lined from inside with ample space to keep your necessities. It also has an extra pocket section for small items . The gold detail matches the wicker color as well.
This bag design is also pretty simple yet it looks so chic and also versatile that it will go with so many outfits. This handbag retails for $1470
The Budget Alternative
J.McLaughlin is the best summer shop I have found so far. Anything related to Summer style you will find there. And I also found the best budget variation of the Miu Miu bag there as well.
The Hera Wicker Crossbody handbag boasts the style and sophistication which is comparable to its designer competitive but saves you a tone of money. The wicker color of the bag is much lighter and probably why it looks luxurious with the tan leather top and handle.
The hardware detail also adds a touch of sophistication to the look making is perfect for special occasion as well. I love that the bottom of the bag has legs which makes it look like a cute picnic bag.
The bag is also fully clothes lined from inside and retails for about $158. Not bad at all isn’t it.
Prada Woven Tote Bag
If you want both versions of the bag, a wicker style and Tote bag then the Prada Woven tote bag is the perfect combination of the both. This bag is another one in my wish list. And probably something that I am planning to purchase in the new future.
The woven wicker style bag also comes with a long strap, so when you want to use it as a crossbody, you can easily do that as well. The leather handle and the key holder makes the bag look really luxurious.
I like that the tote bag is not too big, otherwise it would definitely look weird as a crossbody bag.
The bag comes in a lot of different canvas colors, but I love the white one. It looks summery and a perfect color contrast with the wicker color of the bag.
And with the white Prada logo, he design is just a beauty. The bag is actually reasonably priced for any other Prada bag at $1790
The Budget Alternative
The Kate Spade Wicker Medium Satchel bag is the perfect Budget alternative to the Prada tote bag. This bag is also a timeless piece that Kate Spade revives every year. The style of the bag is extremely luxurious and high quality.
All Kate Spade bags are equally high quality but on a great budget. The current design of the tote bag has a gingham cloth lining. And unlike the Prada one, the it has a draw string that can be tightened to close the bag making it look like the perfect picnic in the park bag isn’t it.
The logo and the tote handle are black in color which creates a perfect night time bag. The longer strap is also black in color and looks so chic.
If you are a black bag lover, and you want a summer touch to it, then this bag is the best one for you. The bag is priced for $398.
Checkout the best summer wardrobe essentials you should have to create chic outfits in the hot weather.