Words by Sophia Miller
When did a Mediterranean market staple become a bona-fide fashion icon? It’s hard to say – but Jane Birkin definitely had a hand in the matter. Although basketmaking is a craft that’s been around since ancient Egypt, it didn’t break into mainstream cultural consciousness until the 1970s, when Birkin was at the height of her fame. Her bag of choice? A then-unconventional wicker basket, usually worn with jeans and a sheer white blouse on the streets of Paris and Provence. Picnic carrier and shopping utensil no longer: suddenly, the basket bag was the It-accessory that would continue to dominate summer mood boards for decades to come.
Although bags woven from raffia and straw continued to be seen as a popular resortwear option down the years, it wasn’t until 2017, when Jonathan Anderson introduced the now-ubiquitous leather-trimmed number at Loewe, that the basket bag really hit the big time. Now well and truly elevated to luxury status, it was the summer rival to the heavier leathers and suedes of the autumn/winter collections. And for good reason – these totes are still a favourite for their ability to instantly inject some of that Birkin-esque effortlessness to any look. Plus, there’s now a style to suit every occasion. Here are five of the best basket bags to add to your collection in 2026.
Sometimes, you just need to take things back to basics. If you’re only choosing one basket bag for your collection, let it be this: a classic, roomy tote – Provençal style. Loewe still reigns supreme here, but Prada, Valentino Garavani, Saint Laurent and Chloé embrace raffia with equal fervour every summer. Now all you need is a baguette. And perhaps some sun-ripened vine tomatoes.
What about when you need something a little less neutral? Lean into your summer alter ego – you know, the one who’s unfailingly fun-loving and always up for a spontaneous beach trip – and embrace colour, embroidery and kitsch. Yes, Miu Miu crochet stripes and Jimmy Choo raffia look great on holiday, but you’ll soon find that a brightly hued basket bag brings just the right touch of the unexpected to summer-in-the-city looks, too.
Forget what you’ve heard – raffia can absolutely be dressed up. Take Jimmy Choo’s Cinch bag as an example: the tonal beading, leather detailing and gold-tone hardware give it just the right amount of structure to swing happily off your arm at a summer wedding or garden party. Just avoid anything too oversized, slouchy or beachy-looking, and you’re onto a high-summer winner.
If you thought basket bags couldn’t be glamorous, think again. Choose one with added embellishment, and it can do double time as an evening bag – whether it’s for sunset cocktails or the local wine bar. From studs, mirror-sequins and chain straps to boho fringing and beading, Valentino Garavani, Schiaparelli, Zimmermann, Pucci are just some of the names catering to those looking to add a little summer glam to their collection.
Is it cheating if our final recommendation isn’t actually made of straw? First came Bottega Veneta’s legendary Intrecciato, then came Dragon Diffusion: fashion’s favourite purveyor of woven leather bags that imitate the nonchalantly slouchy vibe of a basket. This kind of tote is ideal for wearing to work, or any occasion that you feel necessitates something more structured and more formal than your usual favourite basket. So even if you’re stuck at the office, your bag can be a reminder of sunnier days to come.
THURSDAY 14TH – SUNDAY 17TH MAY 2026
Visit the Holiday & Swim room on the First Floor for a weekend of gifts, exclusive offers and more surprises to set you up for a stylish summer.
Discover Harrods editor Abigail’s picks of professional plus ones – from the most versatile shapes to the key brands to know.
Discover the five dresses that deserve a place in your everyday wardrobe and holiday packing list this year.
