Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
The Staple Handbag That’s Sure to Define Spring Fashion (Again)
It’s a cult classic for a reason.
Imagine an idyllic day in spring: the birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and flowers are in bloom. What are you wearing in this fantasy? Whether you can envision yourself in a poplin frock, a pair of cute sandals, or carrying a raffia shoulder bag, everyone has certain warm-weather staples they can’t imagine living without. For ELLE editors, the latter is one of the more “unexpected” items to attain cult status in their closets. While raffia shoulder bags might not seem as pragmatic as other seasonal pieces, that’s simply not true, in our humble opinion. No matter current trends, woven raffia purses remain perennially relevant. A part of the enduring appeal of this accessory can be attributed to its continuous evolution in runway collections—the textile has been transformed into everything from colorful crescent bags to oversized beach totes.
Whether you’re a fan of Chloé or Zara, you can always find endless adaptions of this type of handbag available at varying prices, shapes, and colors, making it one of the safest investments you can make for the season. Of course, with so many options available, it can make discerning what’s actually worth buying a bit more challenging. But, thankfully for you, our editors have you covered. After countless hours of research, I’ve compiled a curation of the best raffia shoulder bags based on editor selects, reviews, quality, wearability, and price point. If you couldn’t possibly imagine a purse attaining staple status in your life, prepare to be proven otherwise.
Often, it’s challenging to find a raffia handbag that’s spacious enough to hold the essentials—e.g., your phone, keys, lip gloss, and a wallet—without being ostentatiously oversized. However, Madewell’s mini bucket bag strikes the perfect balance, making it a solid investment for the season.
Dimensions: Height: 5 inches; width: 6 inches; depth: 4 inches
Colors: Natural Multi, Deep Indigo Multi, Foraged Green
Material: Raffia, Leather Trim
Editor review: “If you’re looking for cute, affordable bags, my pro tip is to always start at Madewell. The designs are chic, and the prices are even better. Like, how cute is this small little raffia bucket?”—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
If you missed your chance to get your hands on the viral Margaux Tote, consider this your second opportunity to invest in another noteworthy style from The Row. Although the Oregon Bag airs on the more casual side, it’s still a solid investment—especially considering it boasts a spacious interior, timeless silhouette, and a hand-woven raffia finish. It’s another bag that’s bound to sell out from the brand.
Dimensions: Height: 16.9 inches; width: 13.4 inches; depth: 11 inches
Colors: Green, Natural, Black
Material: Raffia
Editor review: “This shade of emerald is quite literally evergreen for 2025. We’re seeing it on the fall runways, but even for summer, the hue is perfect, especially as a raffia carry-all tote from The Row.”—Madison Rexroat, assistant accessories editor
Matthieu Blazy’s tenure as Bottega Veneta’s creative director may have come to a close, but there’s no doubt that his creations (specifically the Sardine Bag) will continue to be loved for years to come. Debuted in spring 2023, the handbag quickly attained cult status because of its sleek crescent shape and bold top-handle hardware. While you can now shop the style in various sizes, colors, and textiles, ELLE editors are impartial to the raffia iteration—and really, can you blame them?
Dimensions: Height: 7.9 inches; width: 13 inches; depth: 2.6 inches
Colors: Natural Fondant
Material: Viscose raffia, brass hardware
Editor review: “I’ve been obsessed with this bag for the upcoming summer season. It feels like a more casual everyday bag for the summer, but I love the added Sardine handle, and I feel like it elevates the bag and makes it feel more unique.” —Carson Stannard, fashion editor
Let’s be honest: Not all raffia shoulder bags are created equal. For a bag to be truly one of the “best,” it must be functional and fashionable—Saint Laurent’s Panier Tote checks both boxes with flying colors. The basket-inspired shape gives you enough space to fit all the everyday essentials (or even items for a picnic), while the extra-long leather straps will comfortably fit around your shoulders.
Dimensions: Height: 11 inches; width: 10.4 inches; depth: 8.3 inches
Colors: Beige
Material: Raffia, leather
Editor review: “When I think of raffia bags for summer, I think of an effortless tote that I can toss my book and sunglasses in on my way to the pier. (What pier? I don’t know.) So, I think this open-top bucket is perfect, and I love the contrasting leather straps.”—Meg Donohue, associate fashion commerce editor
Although it’s easy to assume that some of the best raffia shoulder bags boast an oversized shape, Sézane’s Isabelle Bag challenges that notion. With a compact shape and chunky chain strap, the style can be worn as a clutch or shoulder bag—making it one of the more versatile options on the market. Whether you wear it to the beach, the bar, or the boardroom, this little bag will work for any occasion.
Dimensions: Height: 6.3 inches; width: 11.8 inches; depth: 3.5 inches
Colors: Pistachio, Lilac, Blue, Natural
Material: Raffia
Editor review: “It’s a raffia bag that not everyone has, which makes it more covetable. The braided strap adds unexpected intrigue to even the simplest outfit.”—Claire Stern Milch, digital director
If any handbag can reflect the continued relevance of raffia shoulder bags, it’s Prada’s Crochet Tote Bag. Despite being released in 2020, it’s remained one of the most coveted styles among the style crowd (for a good reason). With a lightweight open weave and distinct logo adornment, it’s the ideal item to pack for any upcoming vacation.
Dimensions: Height: 14.9 inches; width: 14.1 inches; depth: 1.1 inches
Colors: Natural, Green
Material: Raffia-effect yarn
Editor review: “This pretty baby has been on my wish list for years. Can someone show this story to my husband, please?”—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
When it comes to crafting handbags that stand out from the crowd, no one does it quite like Staud. Case in point: the Moon Tote Bag. First released in 2019, the style’s unique shape catapulted to street-style stardom overnight. Since then, it’s been continually reimagined every season; the most recent update includes a larger-sized iteration made from raffia.
Dimensions: Height: 7.75 inches; width: 15.7 inches; depth: 4.7 inches
Colors: Natural, Mahogany
Material: Raffia
Customer review: “I fell in love with this bag when I saw it. At first, I hesitated to buy it, but I regretted it because it sold out everywhere quickly. I think it’s unique. It fits comfortably on the shoulder, it’s spacious enough to fit items, and I like that it snaps closed.”
Tory Burch Ella Small Hand Crochet Tote
Are you looking for an excuse to finally book that vacation? Let Tory Burch’s Ella Crochet Tote be your permission slip. Not only will the style’s easily distinguishable logo stand out from the sea of other tourists, but it can also be easily incorporated into your wardrobe long after you’ve left your destination.
Dimensions: Height: 14 inches; width: 11 inches; depth: 5.5 inches
Colors: Black, Natural, White, Blue
Material: Raffia crochet
Customer review: “I got this bag for a vacation, and it was perfect. The size is perfect to carry the pool and beach necessities. Super stylish. I got several compliments.”
It would be a grave error not to mention Loewe’s part in making raffia shoulder bags more mainstream. Without the Spanish fashion house’s continuous release of covetable bags over the seasons, the woven style wouldn’t be as ubiquitous in fashion as it is today. While you can’t go wrong with buying any raffia bag from this brand, if you want something a bit more unique, opt for the Paseo Basket Bag, designed by Jonathan Anderson.
Dimensions: Height: 10.2 inches; width: 17.7 inches; depth: 5.1 inches
Colors: Tan with black leather trim
Material: Raffia, nappa calfskin
Customer review: “Excellent bag. It’s a charming size, and I receive so many compliments.”
One of the worst things about most traditional raffia tote bags? They’re not always comfortable to carry on the shoulders. Thankfully, that’s not the case with AllSaint’s Asha Shoulder Bag. With a thick adjustable leather strap, a magnetic close-snap, and a slouchy oversized shape, it’s sure to be easy to carry around (even on the balmiest summer days).
Dimensions: Height: 17 inches; width: 18.5 inches; depth: .75 inches
Colors: Beige, Black
Material: Straw and leather trim
Customer review: “So stylish. Love this bag.”
Hereu Calella Raffia & Leather Tote Bag
Seldom is it an easy task to find a raffia shoulder bag that’s formal enough for workspaces whilst still being outdoor-friendly—that is, until now. Hereu’s Calella Tote Bag toes the line between the two worlds sublimely with its structured shape, sharp leather-adorned angles, and spacious interior.
Dimensions: Height: 19.7 inches; width: 13.8 inches; depth: 5.1 inches
Colors: Tan, Beige, Black
Material: Raffia, leather
Customer review: “The straps stay on the shoulder, and it fits a small laptop; the perfect functional tote for summer.”
The secret to finding the perfect shoulder bag is to look for a smaller style with a spacious interior. If that seems like an oxymoron, simply refer to Strathberry’s Basket Tote. Its curved shape allows you to carry everything you need—your phone, keys, wallet, and even a book. At the same time, the longer straps make it so the bag can nestle comfortably on your shoulder as you waft about in the sun.
Dimensions: Height: 8 inches; width: 10 inches; depth: 4 inches
Colors: Vanilla, Tan
Material: Raffia, leather trim
Customer review: “If you are looking for a roomy but stylish and beautiful tote, this is it. It’s not too big, but it can easily hold a wallet, iPhone, sunglasses, a small cosmetic bag, and more. The inside leather pocket is handy for small items. The quality is excellent.”
Even though Indigenous communities have championed raffia weaving techniques for centuries, few contemporary accessories brands make it their mission to honor that history. DeMellier stands out in that regard with its dedication to craftsmanship. For instance, the brand’s signature Santorini Basket Bag is ethically handwoven in Morocco, making it an ideal investment for conscious shoppers.
Dimensions: Height: 10 inches; width: 22 inches; depth: 6.2 inches
Colors: Black, Off-White, Tan, Khaki
Material: Raffia, leather
Customer review: “It is the perfect size for everyday use, and the color goes with everything.”
After debuting in Chloé’s spring 2025 runway show, this style is arguably one of the most charming adaptations of the classic handbag. Featuring a curved silhouette, a banana-shaped handle, and a subtle cursive logo, it stands out from the countless other raffia handbags on the market just from a design perspective. But what makes it truly special is that each one is created in partnership with an organization that aims to empower female artisans in Madagascar.
Dimensions: Height: 8.3 inches; width: 14.5 inches; depth: 1 inch
Colors: Blue, Black, Brown, Clay
Material: Raffia crochet with leather trim
Another brand known for its dedication to craftsmanship is Hunting Season. Founded by Danielle Corona in 2006, the brand partners with artisans in Colombia to create its handbags, including its signature handwoven tote made from palm leaves. The attention to detail given to crafting each accessory makes the brand a must-shop.
Dimensions: Height: 10.2 inches; width: 15.2 inches; depth: 3.5 inches
Colors: Cognac, Black
Material: Iraca de palma leaves and leather trim
Finding a functional and fun woven purse can be challenging. Enter, Reformation’s Simona Cylinder Bag into the chat. The delicate balance this bag manages to strike can be attributed to its oblong shape, thin shoulder strap, and raffia-effect finish. All these elements make this handbag something that can be frequently worn throughout the summertime.
Dimensions: Height: 3.75 inches; width: 9.5 inches; depth: 9.5 inches
Colors: Natural Raffia
Material: Cotton, polyamide
PSA: You don’t have to spend all your hard-earned money to secure a solid raffia purse for the season. Plenty of budget-friendly options exist, a prime example being Mango’s Natural Fibre Shoulder Bag. With a sleek baguette shape, a raffia-effect finish, and a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, it’s proof that having a tight budget doesn’t mean sacrificing your taste.
Dimensions: Height: 5.12 inches; width: 10.2 inches; depth: 1 inch
Colors: Tan/Black
Material: Natural fiber
Of the many luxury brands out there, Jacquemus is one of the few that embodies the sunny disposition of summer through its design approach. That’s especially apparent in its accessories, specifically the Le Rond Spiaggia Raffia Shoulder Bag—which was released to celebrate the brand’s fifteenth anniversary. Frankly, no other bag screams, “Take me to a far-off beach” than this round woven raffia bag with delicate bag charms.
Dimensions: Height: 11.4 inches; width: 22 inches; depth: 7.9 inches
Colors: Black, Natural
Material: Raffia
Rarely do handbags tick every box on the checklist: affordable, versatile, and unique. That said, Zara’s braided shoulder bag does just that with its barrel shape fashioned from two-tone raffia, a thin leather strap, and gold hardware. Regret is a likely side-effect of not buying this raffia shoulder bag.
Dimensions: Height: 4.5 inches; width: 11.4 inches; depth: 4.5 inches
Colors: Multi-color
Material: Cotton and polyurethane
Since Khaite released the Olivia Bag in 2021, the street-style crowd’s obsession with the style remains steadfast (I can’t blame them). The slouchy hobo shape oozes an air of sophistication that’s further emphasized by its evolution over the seasons into various sizes, shades, and even textiles. With the latter specifically, one of the most compelling changes to the silhouette came as a raffia-weave finish that gives it a seasonal spin. It’s no wonder the fashion set has continued scrambling to get their hands on this style, as it will stand the test of time.
Dimensions: Height: 8 inches; width: 13 inches; depth: 5 inches
Colors: Tan
Material: Raffia
Readers Also Read
The Chicest Pajamas to Level Up Your Self-Care
The Luxury Tote Bags to Up Your Daily Carry Game
Gucci’s Fall Bag Is the Antidote to Quiet Luxury
Study Up on the Hottest Designer Bags of 2025
