Naturally fashionable

Raffia bags, shoes are all the rage this season

- VAISHALI DAR

A quick dip in the pool, a quick spa trip, or a Sunday brunch—the raffia factor in bags is making a fashion statement this season. Fashion brands are creating their own versions, while fashionistas and celebrities are making heads turn with the best in types and sizes.

From pop icon Rihanna, seen sporting a slouchy black raffia bag from Saint Laurent for her vacation in the south of France, to American actor Zoe Kravitz strolling in New York City in her raffia beach bag from The Row, celebrities like Katie Holmes, Heidi Klum, Sofía Vergara, Gisele Bündchen, Gigi Hadid, Dua Lipa, Chiara Ferragni, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and many others have been seen fancying a raffia bag, shoe design with glittering highlights, delicate embroidery, or color contrasts.

Raffia is a natural fiber like jute, bamboo, and hemp, and is obtained from the raffia palm tree. It is known for its various uses, including weaving, handicrafts, and packaging. The eco-friendly fiber, juxtaposed with style and versatility, is trending.

Major fashion houses like to put the raffia factor into colorful and natural straw bags and shoes. A host of brands like Hermès, Gucci, The Row, Cult Gaia, Zimmermann, and Simon Miller have already incorporated raffia into their collections. Some brands are blending luxury and artisanal craftsmanship.