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THE 14 CHIC STRAW BAGS FOR SUMMER 

Summer is practically here, and that means it’s the perfect time to ditch your heavy purse or tote for a breezy, stylish straw bag. Straw bags are all about effortless chic, and they can elevate any outfit from casual beachwear to a breezy sundress. Whether you’re looking for a roomy tote for a day at the market or a dainty clutch for a night out, there’s a straw bag out there that’s perfect for you. Get ready to dive into the world of woven wonders with our list of the 14 chicest straw bags to carry you through all your summer adventures!

OUR TOP PICKS

TERRAIN TERRAIN LEATHER MARKET TOTE

A good straw bag should look classic and last a long time, even with regular use. Stylist Brittany Diego says we should pay attention to the stitching and straps when choosing one. She recommends picking a bag with high-quality materials for a stylish and durable design. This market tote from Terrain meets all these criteria. It’s made from eco-friendly Moroccan date palm leaves and has strong leather handles held together with sturdy white stitching. Plus, it’s easy to clean – just spot-treat small areas and let it dry in the sun. Just remember that palm leaves can lose their shape if they get wet.

LOEWE A4 RAFFIA & LEATHER TOTE BAG

A good straw bag should look classic and last a long time, even with regular use. Stylist Brittany Diego says we should pay attention to the stitching and straps when choosing one. She recommends picking a bag with high-quality materials for a stylish and durable design. This market tote from Terrain meets all these criteria. It’s made from eco-friendly Moroccan date palm leaves and has strong leather handles held together with sturdy white stitching. Plus, it’s easy to clean – just spot-treat small areas and let it dry in the sun. Just remember that palm leaves can lose their shape if they get wet.

H&M STRAW SHOPPER

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly and versatile option, look no further than H&M’s straw shopper. These come in a variety of styles, from classic totes to shopper bags with shorter handles. They’re typically made from natural or light-colored paper straw, giving them a clean and breezy feel. Some H&M straw shoppers even feature details like faux leather trim or a crocheted look for a touch of extra flair. Best of all, their spacious interiors make them ideal for carrying all your essentials on a trip to the beach, a picnic in the park, or a stroll around town.

ANINE BING ANINE BING RIO TOTE

Anine Bing’s Rio Tote is a step up in style and material compared to the H&M shopper. This bag comes in two distinct versions: a seasonal seagrass option and a more permanent regenerated leather design. The seagrass Rio Tote offers a relaxed, natural aesthetic, perfect for beach days with its open top and woven construction.  It features a bold black Anine Bing monogram for a touch of brand recognition.  The regenerated leather Rio Tote, on the other hand, is a polished and practical choice.  It boasts a fully lined interior with a magnetic snap closure for security, making it ideal for everyday use.  Both Rio Totes come with comfortable straps for easy carrying, but the leather version offers a bit more structure and durability.  

SAINT LAURENT RIVE GAUCHE RAFFIA TOTE BAG

Saint Laurent’s Rive Gauche Raffia tote bag is a product that represents Parisian luxury with a bit of summer sophistication and is considered by many to be one of the best work bags for women. Crafted from natural raffia, this bag brings a luxurious look to the classic straw bag. Unlike some raffia options, Saint Laurent’s design will likely be more structured, thanks to a potential interior lining and possibly reinforced trim details. Available in a variety of sizes, you can choose between a spacious everyday bag or a more compact one for day trips. The key detail that elevates this bag is the “Rive Gauche” text, a subtle nod to Saint Laurent’s heritage and a mark of its designer pedigree. This bag is perfect for enhancing your summer look, whether you’re strolling through the city or lounging by the pool.

CHLOE WOODY LARGE PRINTED LEATHER-TRIMMED CANVAS AND RAFFIA TOTE

Combining playful summer style with everyday practicality, the Chloé Woody Large Printed Leather-Trimmed Canvas and Raffia Tote is a perfect choice for the fashion-forward woman on the go. This bag blends textures beautifully, featuring a woven raffia body for a natural, breezy feel.  The twist comes with the addition of a printed canvas section, which could potentially showcase a seasonal motif or the brand’s signature logo.  For a touch of luxury, the Woody tote incorporates leather trims, likely accenting the handles and adding structure to the bag.  While the raffia construction offers a relaxed vibe, the leather details elevate it for everyday use.  With its spacious interior, this Chloé tote is ideal for carrying all your essentials, from your wallet and sunglasses to a book or a small water bottle.

MAR Y SOL AMARA TOTE

The Mar Y Sol bag is spacious and can hold all your stuff. It comes in raffia, brown, and black colors, and it’s perfect for any occasion, especially for going to the beach. Even though it’s big, the strong rounded handles make it comfortable to carry, even when it’s full. It doesn’t have a lining or a strong closure, but that’s okay because it has a flat bottom that helps it stand up on its own. The brand says that buying this bag helps artisans and their families in Madagascar become financially independent, keeps traditional crafts alive, and helps protect the environment. Because the bag is made of high-quality material and the brand cares about sustainability, you might want to get it in every color.

BOTTEGA VENETA SMALL ARCO BASKET

Bottega Veneta’s Small Arco Basket is a timeless option for those who appreciate understated luxury.  Woven from intrecciato leather, a signature technique for the brand, this bag offers a refined take on the traditional straw bag. The intricate weave creates a beautiful textural element, showcasing Bottega Veneta’s renowned craftsmanship. Unlike natural straw bags, the leather construction provides a more polished look and superior durability. The Small Arco Basket features a drawstring closure to secure your belongings and clean, unadorned lines that exude an air of quiet sophistication.  While it might not be the most spacious bag on this list, its compact size makes it perfect for carrying your essentials in style.  This Bottega Veneta basket is ideal for the woman who wants a timeless piece that elevates her everyday look.

ISABEL MARANT WOMEN’S BAYIA RAFFIA BUCKET BAG

Channel effortless bohemian vibes with the Isabel Marant Women’s Bayia Raffia Bucket Bag. This bag combines Isabel Marant’s signature relaxed aesthetic with a summer-ready raffia construction. The natural raffia offers a light and breezy feel, perfect for warm weather outings.  Its silhouette is a classic bucket bag, ideal for tossing in your essentials for a carefree day.  For a touch of Parisian chic, the Bayia features contrasting cognac leather trims, which could include the drawstring closure and possibly handles or accents.  These leather details add a bit of structure and elevate the bag’s overall look.  While size details may vary, the Bayia is likely on the smaller side, ideal for carrying your essentials with a touch of effortless French style.

MARNI SMALL BASKET

Embrace Marni’s signature playfulness with the Marni Small Basket. This bag is a burst of summery whimsy, crafted from either woven raffia or canvas with colorful embroidery or trimmings [depending on the design]. Unlike some straw totes that prioritize practicality, the Marni Small Basket leans into a more fashion-forward aesthetic.  The size is perfect for carrying your essentials on a night out or adding a pop of color to your daytime look.  Expect playful details that embody Marni’s eccentric spirit,  like unique color combinations, unexpected textures, or quirky embellishments.  This little basket bag is a conversation starter for those who appreciate a unique and eye-catching accessory.

AAKS TIA BLUSH BAG

AAKS bags are carefully made in Ghana, showing that weaving is not only a skill but also a way to be kind to the environment. The brand is owned by Black women and employs mostly female artisans, making sure they get fair wages. They use raffia palm trees, found in Africa’s tropical regions, to create their bags. Each bag is uniquely decorated with bright colors, making them special. These bags are of good quality and are made ethically. This bucket bag is roomy inside, with a linen lining and a drawstring to close it, so you can carry all your stuff easily.

KHAITE THE MEDIUM OLIVIA HOBO

Khaite’s The Medium Olivia Hobo offers a luxurious take on the classic hobo bag silhouette for summer. Crafted in Italy from your choice of buttery calfskin or rich suede, it exudes a sense of understated elegance.  The slouchy design drapes effortlessly over the shoulder or can be carried by hand, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.  Unlike some unstructured straw bags, the Olivia Hobo features a zip-top closure for security, keeping your belongings safe.  For a touch of summery lightness, the interior is lined in cotton grosgrain.  While Khaite offers a natural raffia version for a more casual feel, The Medium Olivia Hobo is all about timeless style and quality materials, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated summer bag.

BODEN RAFFIA TOTE BAG

Boden’s Raffia Tote Bag is a strong contender for the title of your new summer staple. It offers a perfect balance of style and practicality.  Made from natural raffia, it embodies the classic straw bag aesthetic with a relaxed, breezy feel.  Unlike some high-end raffia options, Boden’s tote is likely to be more affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.  But don’t be fooled by the price tag – details like cotton-canvas trims and lining add structure and elevate the bag’s overall look.  Most importantly, the spacious interior makes it ideal for carrying all your summer essentials, whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring a new city, or simply running errands on a sunny day.

CLUB MONACO CLUB MONACO RAFFIA CROSSBODY BAG

Club Monaco’s Raffia Convertible Crossbody Bag is a perfect choice for those seeking a chic and versatile summer accessory.  Woven from natural raffia, it offers a light and breezy feel, ideal for warm weather outings.  This bag goes beyond the standard tote design, featuring a compact silhouette that keeps your essentials close at hand.  The key feature is the convertible strap, allowing you to wear it as a crossbody bag for hands-free convenience or transform it into a clutch for a more polished look.  This versatility makes it perfect for everything from a casual stroll through the market to a night out with friends.  Club Monaco’s Raffia Convertible Crossbody Bag is a stylish and functional option that elevates your summer looks without sacrificing practicality.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST STRAW BAGS FOR SUMMER

Style: Think about the overall vibe you’re going for. Do you want a classic tote for everyday use, a compact clutch for evenings, or a whimsical bucket bag for beach days?

Material: Natural straw offers a relaxed feel, while raffia can be more structured. Woven leather adds a touch of luxury, and canvas options with raffia accents can be playful and budget-friendly.

Size: Consider how much you need to carry. Spacious totes are great for the beach or errands, while smaller cross-body bags are perfect for nights out or keeping essentials close.

Structure: Some straw bags are naturally floppy, while others have a more structured silhouette thanks to lining or reinforced trims. Think about how much you value shape and security.

Versatility: How many outfits will this bag complement? Opt for neutral colors and classic styles for maximum versatility.

Budget: Straw bags come in a wide range of price points. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and whether natural materials or budget-friendly alternatives are more suitable.

CONCLUSION

From beachside totes to city-chic crossbodys, there’s a perfect straw bag out there to elevate your entire summer wardrobe. So, ditch the heavy purses and embrace the breezy style and endless versatility that straw bags offer. With our list of 14 chic options as inspiration, you’re sure to find the perfect summer companion that complements your style and carries your essentials in effortless elegance. Happy summer adventures!

Is Vaseline Good for Your Lips?

If you’ve been looking for a cost-effective and easy way to moisturize your lips, you may have considered using Vaseline. Vaseline is an occlusive substance that has been used for years as a remedy for dry skin, chapped lips, and other ailments. But, despite its popularity, you may wonder, is Vaseline good for your lips? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of using Vaseline on your lips, along with some alternatives and tips.

What is Vaseline, and how does it work?

Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is a semi-solid, transparent substance derived from petroleum. It is an occlusive emollient, meaning it forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, sealing in moisture and preventing water loss. It was first discovered in 1859 by Robert Chesebrough, who noticed that oil rig workers were using a substance to heal their wounds. He refined the substance and called it Vaseline. Today, Vaseline is used for a variety of purposes, including skincare, hair care, and lubrication.

Vaseline works by creating a physical barrier that effectively locks in the skin’s natural moisture, providing hydration and preventing dryness. Dr. Michele Green, a dermatologist in New York City, said that Vaseline is a good option for people with sensitive lips. “Vaseline is a gentle and hypoallergenic product that is safe for most skin types, including sensitive lips,” she says. “It can help to protect your lips from irritants and allergens.”

Its versatility and effectiveness in maintaining skin hydration have made it a popular and widely used skincare product for over a century.

 Is Vaseline Good for Your Lips?

Yes, Vaseline can be an effective remedy for chapped lips. Its occlusive properties create a protective barrier on the lips, preventing moisture loss and shielding them from harsh environmental factors like wind and cold temperatures, which can exacerbate dryness and chapping. A 2020 study published in the journal Skin and Aging found that Vaseline can be an effective treatment for chapped lips. The study found that Vaseline significantly reduced the dryness, scaling, and cracking of lips in participants.

When applied to chapped lips, Vaseline helps lock in the skin’s natural moisture, providing relief and promoting the healing process. 

How to use vaseline on your lips

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before applying Vaseline to your lips. Ensure your lips are clean and free from any lip products, such as lipstick or lip balm
  • Scoop a small amount of Vaseline onto your finger or a q-tip.
  • Apply the Vaseline to your lips, using gentle circular motions. Gently spread the Vaseline evenly across your lips. Use your fingertip to massage it in, covering the entire lip area.
  • For intense overnight hydration, apply a slightly thicker layer of Vaseline to your lips before bedtime. This helps lock in moisture while you sleep, and you’ll wake up with softer, smoother lips.
  • If you’ll be outdoors, consider using a lip balm with SPF over your Vaseline to protect your lips from sun exposure.
  • To maintain hygiene, try not to double-dip your finger into the Vaseline container after it’s been in contact with your lips. Instead, use a clean spatula or your fingertip to transfer a small amount onto your lips.

Potential side effects

  • May Clog Pores: Vaseline is an occlusive substance, which means that it can trap dirt and bacteria in the skin. This can lead to clogged pores and breakouts if not properly removed.
  • Not Suitable for Everyone: While Vaseline is generally safe for most people to use, some individuals may be allergic to petroleum jelly or other ingredients in the product.
  • May Not Be Long-Lasting: Vaseline may need to be reapplied frequently, as it can wear off quickly and won’t necessarily provide long-lasting moisture.
  • Unpleasant Taste: Vaseline has a distinct taste that many people find unpleasant or unappetizing.

Vaseline vs. chapstick

Ingredients

Vaseline: Contains mineral oil and waxes, derived from petroleum.

Chapstick (Lip Balm): Contains a variety of ingredients, such as beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and emollients, with potential additional components like sunscreens or flavors.

Versatility

Vaseline: Versatile product with various uses beyond lip care, including moisturizing dry skin, protecting minor cuts and burns, and acting as a general skin protectant.

Chapstick (Lip Balm): Primarily designed for lip care, with some variations for specific needs like cold sore treatment, sun protection, and tinted options.

Texture

Vaseline: Thick, slightly greasy texture that creates a noticeable barrier on the skin or lips.

Chapstick (Lip Balm): Smoother texture that is less greasy, making it comfortable for regular use.

Convenience

Vaseline: Typically comes in a larger container, which may not be as convenient for on-the-go use. Some products are available in portable tubes.

Chapstick (Lip Balm): Packaged in user-friendly, portable tubes or sticks, making it easy to apply and carry for reapplication throughout the day.

Personal Preference

Vaseline: Preferred by those seeking intense hydration and protection, especially in harsh weather conditions.

Chapstick (Lip Balm): Ideal for everyday use and personal preference due to its smoother texture and variety of flavors/formulations.

Sun Protection

Some Chapstick (Lip Balm) products include sunscreens, offering additional protection against UV damage. Vaseline typically does not contain sunscreen.

some additional ways Vaseline can be useful

Moisturizer for Dry Skin: Vaseline is an excellent moisturizer for dry or rough skin, including hands, elbows, and feet. It forms a protective barrier that helps retain moisture and softens the skin.

Healing Minor Cuts and Burns: Vaseline can be applied to minor cuts, scrapes, and burns to keep the area moisturized and protected, aiding in the healing process and reducing the risk of infection.

Preventing Chafing: It can be used as a preventive measure against chafing, particularly in areas prone to friction, such as thighs or underarms. Applying a thin layer helps reduce irritation.

Makeup Remover: Vaseline can effectively remove makeup, including stubborn mascara and eyeliner. It’s gentle on the skin and can be wiped away with a tissue or cotton pad.

Barrier for Hair Dye: When dyeing your hair at home, apply Vaseline along the hairline and ears to prevent hair dye from staining the skin.

Cuticle and Nail Care: Massaging a small amount of Vaseline into the cuticles can soften them and help maintain healthy-looking nails.

Tattoo Aftercare: Vaseline can be used to keep newly inked tattoos moisturized and protected during the initial healing period.

FAQs 

  1. Is it safe to use Vaseline on lips? Yes, Vaseline is generally considered safe for use on the lips. However, if you have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new product.
  2. Can Vaseline be used as a lip balm? Yes, Vaseline can be used as a lip balm to moisturize and protect the lips.
  3. Does Vaseline contain any harmful chemicals? No, Vaseline does not contain any harmful chemicals. It is made from a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, which are safe for use on the skin.
  4. Can Vaseline heal chapped lips? Yes, Vaseline can help to heal chapped lips by locking in moisture and preventing further damage.
  5. How often should I apply Vaseline to my lips? The frequency of application depends on your personal needs and preferences. Some people may need to apply Vaseline several times a day, while others may only need to apply it once or twice. It’s best to experiment with different frequencies to find what works best for you.

Final Takeaway

Vaseline can be a great choice for moisturizing and protecting your lips. Its affordable price, versatility, and hypoallergenic properties make it a popular choice among many individuals. However, it’s important to be aware of its potential drawbacks, such as clogged pores and frequent reapplication. By following the tips and alternatives mentioned in this article, you can ensure that your lips stay healthy, moisturized, and protected. So the answer to the question “Is Vaseline good for your lips?” is yes, but like all products, it may not be suitable for everyone.