It's Not Summer Until French Women Pull Out This Timeless Bag Trend

With trends constantly coming in and out of the sartorial world, it can be rare to find one that stands the test of time. But one trend continues to pop up every summer without fail and has also been a French favorite since the '80s: woven bags. Whether it's rattan, straw, raffia, or jute, the trend seems to be the ultimate summer staple that won't go away anytime soon.
When you think of Jane Birkin, the iconic Hermès bag will instantly come to mind, but what you might not know is that a basket bag was also one of the French actress's top handbags of choice. It completed her relaxed "cool-girl" look, and it's safe to say the Hermès bag isn't the only timeless bag she's championed. A woven bag completes any summer ensemble, whether you're running errands or relaxing on vacation. Plus, who doesn't want to emulate French style?
While the actress used to shop for her woven bags on her travels, you can shop for your own from the comfort of your home. I've scanned the market for the best picks, from affordable options at H&M to investment-worthy bags by Loewe. Keep scrolling to find your pick for the season ahead.
Shop the best woven bags
- Best classic woven bag: Etsy Jane Birkin Basket With Lid ($100)
- Best affordable woven bag: H&M Straw Shopper ($35)
- Best luxury woven bag: Khaite Medium Lotus Tote in Natural Raffia ($1650)
- Best clutch woven bag: Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch ($545)
- Best leather woven bag: Dragon Diffusion Interwoven Leather Tote Bag ($372)
A big oversize tote is calling your name this summer. Throw in a wine bag! Throw in an extra pair of shoes! Throw in your latest beach read! This tote is large enough to accommodate any of your worldly possessions.
Size: Oversize tote
Color: Beige
Material: Paper and polyester
This is the bag that keeps on giving, gracing the feeds of our editors and other fashion people. This viral woven bag from Loewe is famous for a reason—it's that good.
Size: Tote
Color: Tan
Material: Rattan and leather
Just like the icon herself, this timeless structured bucket woven bag screams French chic.
Sizes: Small, medium, and large
Color: Natural
Material: Wicker, straw, cane, bamboo, and rattan
Best Leather Woven Bag
Dragon Diffusion might be best in class when it comes to handwoven leather bags. If you're looking for something a bit more elevated, this bag takes the cake.
Size: Mini
Colors: Chocolate, Natural, Tan, and Camel
Material: Leather 100%
Shop Woven Bags
If you're looking for something with a more artisanal, handcrafted feel, this top-handle woven bag is simply divine. Plus, a built-in cloth drawstring keeps all of your valuables safe.
Size: Mini
Color: Rattan
Material: Rattan and textile
This bag is perfect for a Miami girls trip, perfect to wear to a brunch or beachside club.
Size: Mini
Color: Beige
Material: Straw
This is just the right size to back on vacation to wear to a casual dinner where you still want to feel a bit more dressed up.
Size: Clutch
Colors: Beige and Orange
Material: Natural fibre fabric
A perfect everyday bag if you're itching for warmer weather and long summer days ahead.
Size: Shoulder bag
Color: Beige
Material: Raffia and linen
This is the tote to end all totes—Khaite's iconic Lotus bag has been reimagined in a summery material.
Size: Medium
Color: Natural raffia
Material: Viscose raffia
Imagine you and this bag strolling around the South of France. What's not to like?
Size: Medium
Color: Natural
Material: Rattan
Honestly, if you told me this clutch was from a designer brand's resort collection, I'd believe you.
Size: Clutch
Color: Black
Material: Raffia and twill
Woven bags don't have to be the same raffia color most come in—you can have fun with different patterns and colors, too. This rainbow-striped slouchy bag is high up on my buy list. Plus, it's well under $100!
Size: Tote
Colors: Rainbow stripe and natural raffia
Material: Paper and polyester
The shape of this handle is to die for.
Size: Mini
Color: Cocoa Weave
Material: Raffia and cotton
If you're itching for a leather woven bag without spending a pretty penny, let me introduce you to this affordable alternative.
Size: Bucket tote
Color: Brown
Material: Polyurethane
An incredible hands-free alternative to have your digital point-and-shoot camera in one hand and your sunscreen lotion in the other.
Size: Small
Color: Khaki green
Material: Paper and polyester
Adorable!
Size: Clutch
Colors: Natural raffia and jasmine
Material: Raffia
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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