WOVEN BAG TREND IS WHAT YOU SHOULD BE EYEING ON RIGHT NOW

A lunch pail bag made of natural straw, an oversized wicker beach tote, a wooden beaded handbag, bamboo shell clutch or the raffia made cross-body pouch – if the visual of these bags sets you in a tropical paradise wearing a pretty tie-dyed backless dress along with a Jacquemus hat and slippers on then you really need to pause down, read, and rethink. This 1970s beloved trend by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Jane Birkin is no more just a holiday buy, it’s rather timeless and seasonless addition to your trove. This unique artistry of weaving bags with bamboos, leaves, and other such lovely materials was given to the world by the ancient Egyptians, a mere utility product then is bestowing upon a copious amount of inspiration for every fashion enthusiast now.

Photo credits: Cosmopolitan

Having gained traction from celebrities and social media influencers alike. Is there a doubt about woven bags being the ‘ít’ bag of the season? We say, if not yet, they quite deserve the throne. From straw to raffia to plastic and duffle to basket to tote bag, there’s a woven wonder for every fashion taste and style, of course with a socially conscious spin.

Knowing that the options are literally countless, here we bring a hand-picked list of the styles and products that you definitely need to ponder on.

Natural Straw Bags
Straw bags hold a special place in the history of woven bags, after all, Egyptians first started with natural straw only. They are very lightweight and their natural tan hue makes it a perfect accessory collection (for summers, or not!)

Trunk style bag by Dolce & Gabbana | Inspired from everyday Italian lifestyle, its trunk-like silhouette, leopard print lining, leather details, and gold-tone logo plaque exudes a phenomenal Sicilian elegance that will go with just about anything, also, if you like experimenting with your work bags, this one’s the choice. Buy now

Photo credits: Farfetch

Clutch cum sling bag by Serpui | The confusing situation between choosing the classic clutch and dainty sling bag is a mood-spoiler for any occassion. To save the mess, this light honey clutch cum sling straw bag is the perfect fix for your varied mood. Buy now

Photo credits: Farfetch

Vintage basket handbag on Etsy | From the beach to picnic to brunch, this 70s inspired vintage basket bag weaved in authentic straw is bound to turn heads. C’mon how often do you see such adorable floral details with gold clasps on rustic leather? Buy now

Photo credits: Etsy

Wicker Rattan Bags
Wicker Rattan bags are as pretty as natural straw but relatively more endurable, a great relief especially when your bag management skills require that extra protection. Plus, because it is more strong, the designs go a little more structured and precise laying some very statement-making options to choose from.

Seashell Potli bag by Zara | This uber-beautiful piece – with wicker rattan frame enveloped in seashells, beads and diamanté details on the exterior – is the must-have for your ethnic arsenal, carry it with ornately embellished lehengas or pull it off with an Indo-western look, you’d be absolutely happy about your choice. Buy now

Photo credits: Zara

Mini shoulder bag by Gucci | Be a Gucci girl and bring this Pre-Fall’19 mini shoulder bag with colourful stripes of the classic green and red. With its vintage shape and the way it’s weaved, Gucci (expectedly) has taken the beauty of wicker and rattan to next-level. Buy now

Photo credits: Farfetch

Beaded Bags
Beaded bags are rather more playful than official, take them for shopping, brunches, and vacations. Even though they need a little more care than the raffia or rattan ones, their eclectic charm is worth the bet.

Wooden beaded bag by Cult Gaia | This bohemian brown Cora bag inspired by 70s style (we are imagining Jane Birkin with this) features a beige canvas pouch framed by gradient-toned wooden beads with similar details on the handles. Try this with boyfriend denim and a nice white t-shirt to go chic or pair it with a nice monotone dress for that retro feel. Buy now

Photo credits: Matches Fashion

Multi-coloured tote bag by Zara | This contrasting set of multi-coloured beads in red, orange, green, blue, and black make us dream of a walk across the bustling streets of Morocco in a dainty pastel-coloured tulle midi-dress. How will you style this tote-bag? Buy now

Photo credits: Zara

Raffia Bags
Raffia or Raphia is a straw-like material that is extracted from a palm tree, owing to its naturally frizzy canvas the material goes great for embroidery and experimental three-dimensional designs.

Le petit Baci bag by Jacquemus | To complement the much raged giant hat, this beige raffia bag in deconstructed silhouette is a great pick. If you're looking for something a little different, look no further than this aesthetically pleasing bag in Jacquemus’ signature style. For this one, you may get a little biased on seasonality for its oozing beachy-summary vibe. Buy now

Photo credits: Farfetch

GG Marmont woven sling bag by Gucci | A sling bag that segues effortlessly from day to night is worth the splurge, especially when it’s this incredibly feminine bag made of raffia weaved in flower motifs with leather trim and gold-tone metal hardware. Buy now

Photo credits: Matches Fashion

Be it about the artistic value, utility or beauty – these modern-age woven bags serve the purpose and how! With these getting shelved in your cellar, we’re sure Audrey Hepburn and Jane Birkin would be very happy with your collection. Make your pick as they may run out very soon