How To Style A Woven Bag For A Classy Summer Look
When the weather warms up, one of the first things I do is swap out my heavy leather purse for something lighter and a little more fun. For me, that’s a woven bag. I love how it instantly gives off that vacation-chic look and feel, even if I’m just stepping out for a bite or dropping by the farmer’s fruit market.
And when you wear one with a cute sundress or crisp white jeans? Wow! Your whole outfit feels so fresh and summery.
One of my favorite woven handbags – love the shape!
How to Style a Woven Bag to Look Cute and Classy
Woven bags pair well with most summer looks, but with so many types, from oversized totes to structured minis and raffia clutches (each with its unique vibe), there are numerous ways to style them.
So, Glam Gals, here are a few easy tips for styling woven bags to help you look effortlessly chic.
What Is A Woven Bag?
Just so we’re clear, a woven bag is just what it sounds like: a bag made from materials that are woven together, rather than stitched or molded like a typical leather and fabric handbag. Thanks to Jane Birkin and her “French cool girl” aesthetic, woven bags ruled in the 1960s. From sundresses to tailored linens, Jane showed us just how cute and versatile these airy summer bags can be.
And they’re so pretty too. I like to think of woven bags as the eyelet tops of the handbag world, lol – lightweight, feminine, and full of personality!
This faux leather woven tote folds and is great for travel!
Are Woven Bags In Style?
Woven bags have staying power. Big brands and designers continually reinvent the woven bag silhouette each year. Still, the essence remains the same: whether it’s a structured tote bag or a relaxed crossbody, the best straw bags for summer strike the perfect balance between timeless and modern chic.
Lately, Woven leather and faux leather tote bags have become quite popular. This one (above) is fantastic for travel because it’s so soft and flexible. You wouldn’t believe how easily it fits underneath my seat. Plus, it’s very light but strong. You can carry a load of books in this, no problem.
Of course, there’s also much to love about the look of a classic, woven rattan or straw bag. I own several, from envelope-style clutches to colorful, slouchy totes.
Are Woven Straw Bags Durable?
Woven straw bags are loved because they last and can hold their own! Some woven bags are even water- and UV-resistant. Clean and store them correctly, and they’ll last a lifetime. I’ve had this classic half-moon ratttan bag for years! I suggest keeping them in a hanging purse organizer like the one I shared in my post on organizing a dysfunctional closet so they don’t get crushed and are easy to find.
How To Wear Straw Bags In Style
- Select a structured shape when you want a more polished look
Not all woven bags look like floppy beach totes. Bigger, relaxed bags may suit your poolside and vacation look, but they can look frumpy with a more sophisticated outfit.
You always want to think about the outfit you’re wearing and the vibe you are after.
A small to medium structured woven bag with its clean lines and natural texture is more formal and polished. For example, round-top-handle bags or rectangle-structured top-handle bags are more structured and therefore more elegant. Higher-end tote bags that maintain their structure can also be classy. I always love a woven bag with a gold chain too.
A less structured, casual woven bag is more suitable for the beach or when you need to carry a few things around.
This half moon straw bag never goes out of style!
- Choose the right fabrics for your woven bags.
It’s very obvious that certain fabrics pair perfectly with woven bags, while others don’t belong in the same room… let alone the same outfit! Straw bags and natural fabrics are a dream team. They look best with summery materials like linen, cotton, chambray, crochet, and denim. These casual fabrics work with a woven bag’s laid-back vibe.
Avoid pairing a woven bag with anything glossy, dressy, or formal. Woven materials clash with fabrics like satin, lace, and silks, making your outfit look out of sync and off. Keep the look classy and coordinated.
I love a big slouchy straw tote in summer!
- Go neutral for an effortless, chic look.
Light- colored woven bags feel more summery than dark ones. Think tans, beiges, and creams—all of those sandy shades that play well with summer whites and soft colors!
If your closet already leans towards a classic or minimalist style, a neutral straw bag is your best friend. And if you tend to like bright colors and fun shades (guilty!), It’s easy to add a woven bag to the mix.
For more on minimalistic chic, check out this post.
- Use your bag as a statement accessory.
Sometimes, all an outfit needs is one fun piece to make things pop, and woven bags can do just that! Colorful woven bags feel like wearable art that can elevate your look without overwhelming it. For example, take a look at how much fun this woven tote bag is! It’s the perfect size, has a comfortable amount of color, and is ideal for the summertime.
Of course, there’s a time and place for bold colors and fun patterns. You don’t want to wear a bright bag if you’re already wearing lots of color in the rest of your look. But if you’re wearing a chic all-white set? A statement bag brings the whole look to life!
- Add a scarf for a dash of personality.
Want to jazz up your bag a bit? Loop a printed silk scarf around the handle for a pop of personality (and color!). It’s a simple trick, but it makes your entire look feel more pulled together. And here’s the fun – you can swap scarves out to match your outfit or mood!
If you’re going for a very casual, playful look, you can even accessorize with pom-poms, tassels, or bag charms (as long as they don’t look too junior). Alternatively, opt for a more vibrant woven tote bag featuring stripes, large straw flowers, or another distinctive motif.
This is a lovely woven bag that will transition well into Fall!
Where To Buy Straw Bags and Woven Bags
To shop for more timeless woven bags, consider the following brands. From crossbody bags to totes, clutches to slings, and half-moons to oversized options, these brands have it all and more!
This striped woven bag is very lightweight and a fun change.
Are you adding a woven bag to your handbag collection this year?
Whether you’re off to a luxurious beach vacation or simply headed out for lunch, a chic woven bag can elevate any summer look. For more on choosing bags that make you look WOW, don’t forget to check out this post about selecting the right handbag for your body type.
Be sure to follow my LTK storefront to stay up-to-date with my favorite outfit ideas, from everyday classics to the latest trendy styles.
Will you be toting a woven bag, or do you prefer to stick to your leathers and canvases? Please let me know in the comments.
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