What is the most used and loved product we’ve ever bought on a trip???? That award goes to the straw bags we bought on a trip to Morocco a few years ago. Each of us bought multiple straw bags in various sizes. They nestled together like Russian dolls, and we arrived home with a full supply of bags to use ourselves and gift to friends. We use them as purses, to haul groceries, to hold a change of clothes, to carry pickle racquets, as beach bags, and so much more. We especially like structured straw bags (like the Mersea Market Basket below) because they stand up, and it’s easy to find things in them. Jo also really likes a bucket bag (like the Clare V. below) that she uses when she’s carrying just a few items. She also has a straw clutch that she likes for summer evenings out or on vacation. There is no shortage of styles and sizes of straw bags that you need. Here are some of our favorites.
Mersea Market Basket: Available in two sizes, this is similar to our favorite straw bag purchased in Morocco. Structured with long straps for easy carrying, it’s a great bag!
Sensei Large Straw Tote Bag: Available in six colors, this bag is crafted by skilled artisans for extra durability.
Gap Straw Tote Bag: Gap never disappoints, and it has a go-to straw tote seasonally. This tote bag is made with a straw upper and has vegan leather shoulder straps.
Jenni Kayne Hollis Bag: California casual expert Jenni Kayne’s Hollis bag comes in tan, olive, or navy. Hand-crocheted from raffia, it’s lightweight, durable, and spacious enough for the beach and beyond. An internal pocket keeps all your essentials organized, making it effortless to grab and go.
Wyeth Monterey Straw Bag: We love this multicolored straw crochet tote with a magnetic closure, lining, and an inner pouch. It’s easy to dress up or down, and it adds a pop of fun color to every outfit!
Hat Attack Straw Traveler Bag: This one caught our eye because you can use the outside straps to hold your sun hat. It’s also packable, so great on the road.
Mary Mill Tote Bag: From FabList favorite Alex Mill, this tote is made from 100% luxe raffia by highly skilled artisans in Madagascar.
Clare V. Bamboo Handle Top: This bucket bag definitely gives off Jane Birkin vibes! Handwoven from natural straw fibers, it comes with a bamboo handle, or you can turn it into a shoulder bag with an additional strap.
Madewell Brioche Straw Purse: This is such a fun shape, definitely on trend. In woven raffia, this zip-top shoulder bag features an elongated silhouette and is trimmed with smooth leather.
Staud Covertible Leather Clutch: 100% raffia and 100% leather trim. The Maude Convertible Clutch is a raffia hand-held clutch with knotted tie detail at the sides. It features an interior zip pocket, magnetic closure, and a removable leather shoulder strap so it can also be used as a shoulder bag.
Madewell Wristlet Bag: This is cool! It opens flat so you can put your phone in, etc., then buttons up and slips over your wrist so you can be hands-free!
Designer Options:
Chloe Woody Large Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote: This bag has become a classic! Woven from lightweight raffia, it’s trimmed with leather and logo-woven canvas straps. The roomy interior will hold everything you need for a day out.
Loewe Straw Braid Basket Bag: Another designer classic, the Braid Basket tote is woven from raffia in a structured, open weave. Leather handles anchor the shape, while a logo tag and knotted ties finish the design. You’ll have this forever!
Toteme Leather Strap Tote Bag: We love the simplicity of Toteme products. This is an effortless bag crafted in Italy from woven paper raffia with a substantial hand-feel and designed to drape naturally along the body. It has an adjustable strap with a metal buckle and opens with a small clasp to a spacious interior with slip pockets. It comes in a few sizes.
