Raffia Bags and How to Style Them

When we think of summer bags, raffia or woven bags top the list. Why? Because they feel beachy and summery and yet, still utterly sophisticated.

The charm of the raffia bag lies in its raw, natural beauty. The textile originates from the tropical raffia palm tree, and the material's unique texture and neutral tones give it an earthy appeal that effortlessly blends with any color palette. 

And the best part? It's not just for beach getaways anymore. Raffia bags have secured their place in both casual streetwear and sophisticated evening attire.

The Raffia Renaissance: Natural Fibers are Trending

In the past few months, you may have noticed that raffia bags are everywhere. And there's a good reason. They add texture and that natural touch to an outfit that says "I'm fashion-forward, but also don’t try too hard." And raffia is also an eco conscious material, so that’s a win/win. 

Raffia is known for its strength and flexibility, which makes it an awesome material for crafting bags. Plus, it's a natural, renewable resource, which means we can rock our raffia bags and feel great about it!

Styling Tips for Raffia Bags

Balance and Texture

When it comes to integrating a raffia bag into your ensemble, think about balance. The woven texture of the bag can be wonderfully contrasted with smooth materials like silk, satin, or leather. Similarly, its neutral tones allow the vibrant hues of your outfit to pop. And it can create a harmonious vibe with a more subdued, monochrome look.

A raffia bag is a really versatile one to add to your collection. Especially if you already own a basic black bag - this type of bag can help mix things up.

Switch Up Your Straps

Many raffia bags come with removable straps, allowing for customization. It’s kind of like getting two bags in one! Switching between a leather strap for a more polished look and a woven one for a full-on boho vibe can completely transform your outfit.

And it’s great for travel, because you can pack one bag and hace two completely different looks with the swap of a strap.

Choose Your Footwear Wisely

Pairing your raffia bag with the right shoes can make a world of difference. Luckily, most summer shoes play beautifly with a raffia bag. Straw or raffia or any natural shoe will give a cohesive beachy vibe, while a leather shoe offer a delightful contrast. 

This style bag works with almost any footwear - sneakers, pumps, sandals or slides. The only shoe type to be wary of is a truly winter boot - like a Sorrel - that’s kind of like eating Fruit Loops and Filet Mignon at the same meal. 

Types and Styles of Raffia Bags

Raffia bags come in an assortment of shapes, sizes, and styles, which means it’s easy to find the right one for you! They can be colorful, monochromatic, embellished, or plain. And come at all different price points. 

Here’s a quick rundown:

Raffia Tote Bags

These roomy bags are ideal for shopping trips or beach outings. Totes made from raffia add a natural, boho-chic touch to your outfit and offer plenty of space for all your essentials.

Raffia Clutch Bags

For moments that call for a more elegant, sophisticated accessory, the raffia clutch is your go-to. This smaller, often rectangular bag is the ideal size for carrying your evening essentials like your phone, wallet, and cosmetics. A raffia clutch can effortlessly elevate your formal attire, be it a little black dress or a formal pantsuit. 

The beauty of a raffia clutch is that it adds texture and interest to a dressier outfit, without needing to add sparkle and shine (as in sequins and rhinestones) that we typically associate with formal attire. This bag style also slightly dresses down or makes a more fancy outfit feel effortless.

Raffia Crossbody Bags

These versatile bags combine style with convenience. Often these bags are lighter weight than their leather counterparts, so when wearing it as a crossbody, every ounce makes a difference. At least for my aging neck and shoulders!!

Whether you're going for a casual day out, a beach vacation, or a city adventure, a raffia bag can be a stylish and useful accessory to complete your look.

How to Style Your Raffia Bag for Every Occasion

Styling Your Raffia Bag for Casual Outings

These bags, with their earthy tones, perfectly complement a flowing summer dress. And it helps tone down bolder patterns like florals because of the neutral color that goes with most everything. Toss in a pair of comfortable yet fashionable sandals, and you've got yourself a winning combination. 

Or add a beautifully woven raffia tote with your favorite denim shorts and a breezy white top. The raffia bag adds both an effortless charm and a trendy touch to your casual look.

Office Chic with Raffia Bags

These bags can add a unique spin to your traditional office look. Try a neutral-colored raffia bag paired with your favorite power suit. This combination adds a fresh, modern edge to your professional attire. Opt for a more structured woven bag, to match the vibe of an office and a suit. Save the boho bags for more casual looks.

Raffia Bags for Evening Events

When it comes to raffia bags, it's all about choosing the right style and pairing it wisely. A smaller raffia clutch is perfect for an evening soirée or fancy dinner date. Because of its compact style it exudes sophistication without sacrificing the unique appeal of raffia. Pair it with your favorite little black dress, and watch how it takes your outfit up a notch. The textures of the raffia add an interesting contrast to your outfit, making it stand out in a crowd of traditional evening bags.

The Raffia Bag - More than just a Summer Accessory

While raffia bags are often associated with summer, they are incredibly versatile and can complement your autumn and winter outfits (depending on where you live) too. The earthy tones of raffia bags work wonderfully with fall and winter color palettes, making them a year-round accessory.