Coastal Chic: The Raffia Edit
If summer had a defining accessory, the raffia bag would be it. Lightweight, natural, and impossibly chic, raffia has evolved far beyond its beachside roots. This season, fashion houses and cult-favorite brands alike are reimagining raffia in sophisticated silhouettes, making it the go-to texture for everything from farmers' market runs to rooftop cocktails.
Parisian Inspiration
Ever since living in Paris, raffia bags have been on my radar. I used to spot them everywhere—carried by Parisians with that signature ease, moving seamlessly from morning market runs to late night dinners in the Marais. What struck me most was how these woven bags—so often associated with beaches or resorts—were being used as everyday staples, paired with linen trousers and well-worn blazers, or just tossed over the shoulder with a summer dress and sneakers. What stood out wasn’t just the style, but the versatility: natural textures paired with elevated tailoring, creating a look that felt both refined and completely unforced.
Why Raffia Feels Right at Home
Now that I’m in Naples, that same spirit translates beautifully. Maybe it’s the way the sunlight catches the woven texture, or how perfectly it pairs with the easy elegance of life here. Whether I’m strolling down 3rd Street, dining on 5th, or grabbing a quick coffee at Bad Ass, I can't help but notice how seamlessly raffia bags blend into the local scene—effortlessly chic, yet relaxed. It’s become clear that in this coastal town, raffia bags aren’t just a summer trend; they’re an essential part of the Naples lifestyle. From beach outings to evening soirées, they’re the perfect accessory for women who want to look polished without trying too hard.
Rooted in craft and tradition
But raffia bags also tell a deeper story. Made from the dried fibers of the raffia palm, native to parts of Africa and Madagascar, these bags are often crafted using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. Many are handwoven, crocheted, or braided—each one a quiet testament to the time and skill involved in its making. It’s this combination of beauty and craftsmanship that makes raffia so compelling: the material itself is humble, but the work behind it is anything but.
Brands to know
If you're considering adding one to your wardrobe this season, here are five brands worth exploring—from investment pieces to elevated, under-$200 finds.
1. Céline: The Luxe Minimalist
Celine’s raffia totes are less about whimsy and more about quiet luxury. Think structured silhouettes with leather trim, subtle logos, and materials that feel substantial in your hands. These are bags that don’t beg for attention—but always get it. If you're walking down 5th Avenue South, it’s likely you’ve already spotted one or two. It’s the kind of piece that works with both your beach kaftan and your dinner reservation outfit.
2. Jenni Kayne: California Calm, Naples Approved
Jenni Kayne’s designs are all about understated elegance, and her raffia totes embody that perfectly. Neutral tones, clean lines, and all-natural materials make them a perfect fit for Naples’ sun-bleached color palette. One standout is the Isla Hobo Bag, which offers a chic yet approachable price point. These are the kinds of bags you’ll spot at the farmers market on Third Street South, slung casually over someone’s shoulder next to a bouquet of peonies and a reusable water bottle.
3. Hat Attack New York: East Coast Cool with a Coastal Twist
Hat Attack brings a more laid-back feel to raffia, but with an eye for detail. Their bags often feature woven textures, playful handles, or unique shapes—without veering into novelty territory. They’re ideal for everyday errands in Mercato or a casual brunch at Seed to Table. Most of their raffia bags come in under $200, and they hit that sweet spot between style and usability.
4. Cult Gaia: Art You Can Carry
Cult Gaia brings sculptural flair to raffia. Their bags often lean architectural—whether it’s an arched silhouette or a woven clutch that looks like it belongs on a pedestal. If you like your accessories to double as conversation starters (or Instagram bait), this is your brand. Just be ready for compliments. These pieces tend to sell out quickly, especially the ones that blur the line between bag and sculpture.
5. Marissa Collections: The Perfect Blend of Function and Style
The Marissa Collections Logo Tote Bag is the perfect blend of style and practicality, featuring a beautifully woven pink hue that perfectly nods to the brand's signature shade — the same pink that adorns their charming store on 3rd Street. Crafted from natural raffia, this tote is not only eco-friendly but also stylishly versatile. Spacious and lightweight, it's perfect for running daily errands, grabbing a coffee, or heading to the market while still looking chic. Simple, practical, and undeniably stylish, this raffia elevates your everyday essentials with ease.
In the end a raffia bag isn’t just stylish—it’s remarkably practical. Lightweight yet durable, it’s spacious enough for everyday essentials: a book, sunglasses, water bottle, or even a market haul. Its breathable weave makes it perfect for warm-weather living, while its natural texture pairs effortlessly with almost anything in your wardrobe. Versatile and understated, it’s a piece you’ll reach for again and again. Happy shopping!
