To namecheck raffia as solely a spring summer 2020 trend would be doing it a disservice: after all, it’s rare that a beach season goes by where we don’t snap up some chic woven staples.
But beyond sandy shores and poolside cabanas, textured, natural pieces made from the tropical palm leaf really did have a runway moment this year in many guises. When one thinks of raffia, they might not instantly envision evening coats and ballgowns — but Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri made a convincing case for stylish straw clothes.
Similarly, elegant frocks and skirts rendered from this sustainable fiber were seen at the likes of Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana, and Simone Rocha.
Of course, back in the real world, raffia accessories are the easiest way to work this timeless trend into your outfits.
While Jacquemus’ larger-than-life ‘Le Grande Baci’ straw tote dominated social media feeds last year, a contender—Loewe’s basket bag—has been hot on its heels. In fact, Lyst named the Insta-popular holdall as the third ‘hottest’ fashion product of Q2.
And it seems that every luxury brand is vying for a piece of the cake, with Fendi, Prada, Chloé, Celine, Stella McCartney, and Gucci all utilizing raffia elements in new updated versions of their handbag styles.
Here are some pieces making us wish it was summer all year round…
Loewe Leather-trimmed Rafia Tote, $450
Net a Porter
Cult Gaia
Lack of Color
Zimmermann Belted Linen Wide-leg Pants, $375
Ula Rafia Passport Holder, $19.95
Anthropologie
Tory Burch Home Raffia Placemats Set of 4, $218
Moda Operandi
FWRD
Land and Sand Essentials
Gucci Floral and Leather Raffia Sandals, $750
MyTheresa
Liars & Lovers Resin Shell and Raffia Earrings, $15
ASOS
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