Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2012

As much as we all love summer, the truth is, it’s over before we know it. In addition to making as many road trips as possible, during these few fun-in-the-sun months, don’t forget to invest in summer wardrobe essentials. While a new polka dot bikini and cutoff denim shorts are major must-haves, you’ll also want to get one of these: a straw bag.

Straw bags made appearances in spring runway shows such as Dolce & Gabbana and were spotted on Olivia Palermo. They are no longer confined just to the beach. Whether you opt for a woven straw handbag or one that has the look and feel of a real straw basket, rest assured that it will maximize your options and keep you on the cutting edge of summer style!

Leather handbags are great, but let’s face it, nothing says summer more than a straw bag. As the days get hotter, you’ll want a bag that is just as airy, breezy and nonchalant as your lightweight tee and pleated skirt. From an effortlessly simple tote to a structured bag trimmed with leather, there is a straw bag for everyone!


Olivia Palermo proves that straw bags can be chic and sophisticated. (Is there anything that she can’t pull off?!) If there’s one lesson to take from OP, it’s the power of color-coordination. In the outfit on the left, Olivia dons a look consisting entirely of cool blue hues and a bit of gray-brown in her skirt. Take one look at her bag and you’ll find similar shades in her blue and brown ombre straw tote.

Olivia’s most recent ensemble is no exception. Continuing to show her love for easy-going bags, she uses her personal style blog to spotlight her gorgeous straw bag by Furla. Sporting a fierce red slouchy sweater, she keeps it simple by selecting a straw tote with a complementary shade of red.

 Two straw bags with two impeccable looks to replicate!



This multi-colored straw shopper from Reiss shows that straw bags are anything but drab. There’s nothing like vibrant shades of tangerine, lime green, violet and black to add some excitement to your look. For a minimalist ensemble, side with a white button-down blouse, chambray skirt and black strappy sandals. Select your favorite statement necklace and you’ve just styled a cool in-the-city outfit that is more than worthy of running errands in.

For the sophisticated girl who yearns for an outfit erring on the casual side, this is for you! Since it’s inevitable that you’ll be donning your fair share of printed frocks, why not add in some signature hardware like a straw bag trimmed in deep orange leather?

Deep enough for all of your daily essentials (sunglasses, iPhone, your favorite fashion mags, etc.), this bag will become one of your favorites! Finish off with a pair of leather flip-flops to complete this über chic summertime ensemble!

Sometimes the minimalist route is the way to go. If you have a simple and effortless style, then no need for a bag with extra accoutrements. The great thing about a no-nonsense tote is that it’ll match everything. This outfit, consisting of a white t-shirt, polka dot skirt, lightweight scarf and basket weave sandals (how appropriate!), proves that even the most “vanilla” of straw totes can quickly turn fabulous when paired with the right pieces.

To personalize your tote, take a square silk scarf in either a festive print or solid color such as black or red for a bold statement and tie a bow around the handle.

If you’re still on the line with this trend, then here’s the perfect tote to test the waters. With a round, wooden handle and a neutral color palette, this tote will be easy to fit into your daily wardrobe. Look at the bright side, if it doesn’t work out then you can always use it as a beach bag!


Planning a picnic in Central Park anytime soon? Or maybe you’re just looking for a classic straw bag to use when you’re out and about around town? If so, then this pink-trimmed bag is calling for you! Pair it with your little white dress (LWD) for maximum perfection.

While it doesn’t come cheap, this straw tote by Tory Burch is absolutely stunning. If you’re a serious bag carrier and are willing to pay the price, then this one is the crème de la crème. From day to night, casual to dressy, it will undoubtedly take any outfit up a notch (or three).

Still not convinced? Summer comes once a year; don’t miss the opportunity to show your love for straw!

By: Anjerika Wilmer | Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, listed retail stores