Time to Take a More Hands-On Approach When It Comes to…

Time to Take a More Hands-On Approach When It Comes to Raffia, Straw and Rattan Bags

These clutches scream summer. (Credit: Courtesy of J.Crew)

It doesn't officially feel like summer until the first batch of raffia, straw, rattan and woven handbags come rolling along. Dubbed "natural" bags, they're quintessentially beachy, hence their popularity during the few hot months of the year. This go-round, however, we're switching things up by embracing and hoarding raffia clutches instead of the much more ubiquitous totes and outsize carryalls.

Now you may be under the assumption that such a viewpoint significantly narrows the potential shopping list. Not even remotely. It's quite surprising really just how many there are out there currently. Which is a great thing since they cater to a range of price points. (Kinda important right now.) They're not a one-trick pony on the shape front, either. From sleek envelopes to fringe-accented boxy silhouettes to frame bags to half moons, you can cart a different one every single day of the week. Leave it to Jacquemus and Cult Gaia to up the ante, though. The former's clutch looks like a folded paper bag from our dining in the middle school cafeteria days, while the latter tops its creation with a wavy handle that's a true work of art.

Ready to help the raffia clutches trend kick off? Then keep reading to shop the vast array of options from some of our favorite online stores.