Best Straw Bags: Choosing The One

Straw bags – where do you stand? They’re everywhere, and while an ‘It’ trend can put some off entirely, when you like something, you like something and that’s all there is to it. I’m firmly in camp ‘Like’ so have rounded up the best straw bags around. If you’re umming and ahing over those sandals you’ve spied or another pricey new pair of sunglasses, park them for now and seriously take a moment to consider the potential of the humble straw bag. Summer-fy your look in zero seconds flat – check! The one sunshiny accessory that’ll instantly transport you to Ibiza/Saint Tropez/Martinique (you decide!) while doing the Monday commute on an overcast May morning – check! Need more? Well take a look at the super starry buy I’ve just discovered…

Last summer I half-committed to the raffia bag wave, pinching one of my mum’s old beach bags, tying a silk scarf on the slightly weathered handles and very much enjoying the general laidback feeling of the whole idea. This summer however, I’m diving in. Having become pretty addicted to the whole sense of ‘I’ve just stepped off the beach’ easy and the way a straw bag can tone down the smartest summer dress in a flash, I can honestly say I’m hooked. White Stuff’s jaunty little number, scattered with stars, a rainbow tassel and all the summer happy, is definitely right up there in the best straw bags stakes.

Best Straw Bags

There’s more – it’s a double sided tote. So there’s a smattering of stars on one side and on the other, a solo, bold star providing a simple, preppy finish. It’s roomy. Roomy enough to house all of my daily bits and bobs with space left for Hector’s snacks, water, nappies, wipes, spare jumper, toys… I could go on!

Best Straw Bags

Instantly lifting Toast’s gingham dress (a new throw-on-and-go addition to my wardrobe) and great too with jeans, a tee and blazer or denim skirt and silk blouse. Obviously perfect with kaftans and espadrilles but for the casual days, it would equally refine track pants and a slouchy jumper on Sundays. You can thank the sporty Americana spin of the stars for that. Here’s some more best straw bags I’m currently coveting…

Best Straw Bags: Shop Them Now

Best Straw Bags

The comfiest shoes I’ve slipped on in I can’t remember how long are Hobbs Rachel mules. They also come in lemon and lilac suede which are just beautiful but not so practical if like me you’re more running around city, supermarket and playgroups than sashaying along the Marina at sundown on the hunt for a cheeky holiday cocktail. If I did go for colour it would have been the lilac by the way, it’s such a dreamy summer hue but playing it safe, I picked black leather that’ll see me right through to autumn. Just blame the practical mama in me. They’re unbelievably soft and have more than a little 90s about them. Ok, granted they’d be way more Carrie Bradshaw/Kate Moss with a chunky block or sassy kitten heel but these babies are like slippers and I’ll take comfort over killer any day.

Best Straw Bags

So now I’ve well and truly scratched that straw bag itch, what’s next on my summer bag hit list? A string number. You know, the braided and netted kind they throw groceries in over in Australia and other warm weather continents? I haven’t found The One yet and every time I pick up a string bag in store I’m a bit underwhelmed by the whole thing. Also, how do we all feel about having our belongings on show? Having said that, they do look fabulous when filled with summer essentials, and there’s been many Instagram shots that have very nearly triggered an impulse buy on the Mango app! I suppose if all else fails, I can use it as an overflow bag for the pram. Plus, there’s an orange one at Arket that’s only a fiver – so watch this space and do let me know if you beat me to it!

Best Straw Bags

Looking for ways to wear your summer dresses in the up and down spring weather? Then head over to my How To Layer Dresses piece, showing how a pair of white jeans can make even the flimsiest sun frock cosy!