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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!

12 BEST BB CREAMS FOR OILY SKIN TO BUY

Does oily skin make you shy away from BB creams? Fret no more! BB creams can be your best friend, even with oily skin.  They offer the perfect combination of skincare and makeup, evening out your skin tone while providing hydration and sometimes even sun protection. But with so many options, finding the right one for your oily skin can be tricky. This guide will introduce you to the 12 best BB creams specifically formulated to combat shine and keep your complexion looking fresh all day long. So, get ready to ditch the shine and embrace the flawless, natural-looking coverage of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!

OUR TOP PICKS

MISSHA M PERFECT COVER B.B CREAM SPF 42 PA+++ NO. 23

Can’t be missing a classic! The Missha M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA+++ (in No. 23, Natural Beige) is a long-time favorite for oily skin types. This BB cream offers high coverage to even out skin tone and blemishes, while the lightweight formula controls shine and keeps you matte throughout the day.  It also boasts SPF 42 PA+++ for UVA and UVB protection, making it a great one-step solution for your morning routine.  Just be mindful that the shade No. 23 leans more neutral than yellow, so it might not be the best match for super fair or very warm skin tones.

ERBORIAN SUPER BB AU GINSENG NUDE

In a head-to-head battle for the best BB cream, Erborian emerged victorious.  It impressed with a stellar combination: a full-coverage formula that didn’t look cakey and a list of ingredients that went above and beyond.  This BB cream could easily replace your foundation, providing concealment while working wonders for your skin.  The formula is packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower for deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles blackheads and blemishes.  While an SPF boost would be ideal, this product truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it outperformed all the competition in our tests!

DR. JART+ BB PREMIUM BEAUTY BALM

Dr.Jart+ Premium BB Beauty Balm might be a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch. This BB cream offers light to medium coverage, evening out skin tone while still allowing your natural beauty to show through.  The cushiony-soft, creamy texture blends seamlessly for a natural finish.  While it doesn’t boast the highest SPF rating, it does offer sun protection (check the specific SPF on the product you’re considering, as Dr.Jart+ offers variations).  Like many BB creams, it also contains hydrating ingredients to keep your skin from feeling dry.  This BB cream is a good choice for oily skin types who want a natural-looking complexion with some coverage and a touch of hydration.

HOLIKA HOLIKA MOISTURIZING PETIT BB SPF 30 PA++

Oily skin still needs moisture! For those who prioritize keeping their skin hydrated, the Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream is a great choice. This K-Beauty favorite contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that plumps and smooths the skin for a dewy, healthy-looking finish. With nearly 4,000 five-star reviews on iHerb, customers rave about the BB cream’s natural, smooth finish and easy blending. As with any sunscreen product, always check the SPF label on the specific Holika Holika Moisturising Petit BB Cream you choose, and remember that sun protection is key. To ensure effective protection, avoid prolonged sun exposure and reapply frequently as directed.

ESSENCE HYDRO HERO HYDRATING BB CREAM

Essence strikes again with a budget-friendly BB cream! At just £4, this option prioritizes makeup coverage over extensive skincare benefits.  While it offers fuller coverage than some other BB creams, it provides a more matte finish similar to a foundation.  This makes it a great choice for those seeking a lightweight, affordable foundation alternative.  Keep in mind that a little goes a long way with this product, and for the smoothest application, using a makeup brush or sponge is recommended.

TARTE BB TINTED TREATMENT

Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is like a two-in-one product that does both skincare and makeup jobs. It’s light and feels nice on your skin, acting as a moisturizer with a hint of color to even out your skin tone. Inside, there are good things for your skin like vitamin E, which keeps it healthy, and natural minerals that make your skin look smooth. When you put it on, it gives your skin a nice glow without feeling thick or heavy. It also has sun protection, which helps keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays when you wear it every day. Tarte BB Tinted Treatment is great for people who want an easy way to make their skin look nice while also taking care of it.

LA ROCHE-POSAY UVIDEA XL BB CREAM SPF50

Ideal for oily skin types seeking high sun protection, La Roche-Posay’s Uvidea XL BB Cream SPF50+ offers a winning combination of skincare and makeup. This BB cream boasts a powerful SPF 50+ rating with PPD protection, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.  Its lightweight, oil-free formula helps control shine and mattify the complexion, while still providing buildable coverage to even out skin tone.  La Roche-Posay is a dermatologist-recommended brand, so you can be confident this BB cream is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.

MONAT BB CREAM

This Monat BB cream is on the pricier side compared to others. It has a thick and rich texture, making it feel very luxurious, especially because it’s super moisturizing with coconut alkanes, which are great for dry skin. You don’t need to use much of it because a little goes a long way. You can just dab it on with your fingers for a natural look without needing a mirror. It doesn’t cover up blemishes, dark circles, or redness completely, so you might still need concealer for those. Plus, it has SPF 30, which is great for protecting your skin from the sun. Overall, our tester really liked it and plans to keep it in their makeup bag for a while.

ERBORIAN GINSENG BB CRÈME

Erborian’s Ginseng BB Crème emerged as the top contender in our quest for the best BB cream. It impressed with a double threat: exceptional coverage without looking cakey and a superstar ingredient list. This BB cream seamlessly replaces foundation, offering camouflage while working wonders for your skin’s health. Packed with white ginseng and fermented ginseng flower, it delivers deep hydration, while niacinamide tackles pesky blackheads and blemishes.  Although an SPF boost would be a plus, Erborian truly shines with its long-lasting wear – it surpassed all competitors in our tests!

NAPOLEON PERDIS BBB CREAM BEAUTY-BOOSTING BALM SPF 30

Napoleon Perdis’ BBB Cream Beauty-Boosting Balm SPF 30 caters to those who desire a touch of everything in their base product. This multi-tasking balm combines the benefits of a skin-perfecting foundation, a nourishing moisturizer, and broad-spectrum SPF 30 sun protection.  It boasts a lightweight, creamy texture that blends seamlessly for a natural, radiant finish.  While offering sheer to light coverage, the BBB Cream helps to even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.  For those with concerns about aging, the formula may include ingredients to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Napoleon Perdis is an Australian brand known for its high-quality cosmetics, so you can expect a luxurious feel and application.

GARNIER OIL-FREE PERFECTING CARE ALL-IN-ONE BB CREAM

If you have oily skin, you might have avoided using BB creams because they can make your skin look too shiny. But Garnier has a solution! Their BB cream is made especially for people with combination to oily skin. It goes on light and instantly evens out your skin tone while reducing shine. It won’t completely cover up dark circles or blemishes, so you might still need concealer for those. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated. However, if your skin is dry, it might make it look a bit thick, so it’s best for people with oily or combination skin.

L’OREAL PARIS AGE PERFECT BB CREAM SPF 50

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect BB Cream SPF 50 caters to mature skin types seeking a one-step solution for a flawless complexion. This BB cream combines hydrating coverage with broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, making it ideal for daytime wear. The lightweight formula is designed to blend easily and avoid settling into fine lines, while offering buildable coverage to even out skin tone and imperfections.  It may also contain ingredients that address concerns specific to mature skin, such as age spots or loss of elasticity.  If you’re looking for a drugstore-friendly BB cream that provides sun protection, hydration, and a touch of coverage for mature skin, L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect is a great option to consider.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A BB CREAM FOR OILY SKIN

When searching for the perfect BB cream for your oily skin, here are some key factors to consider:

Oil-free and non-comedogenic formula: This is crucial to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Look for these terms on the label to ensure the BB cream won’t add extra oil to your skin.

Mattifying properties: Choose a BB cream that contains ingredients like mattifying powders or clay to absorb excess oil and control shine throughout the day.

Lightweight texture: Opt for a lightweight, water-based BB cream that feels comfortable on your skin and won’t weigh it down. Thick, heavy formulas can exacerbate oiliness.

Coverage level:  Consider how much coverage you need. BB creams typically offer light to medium coverage, which is ideal for most oily skin types. If you need more coverage, look for a BB cream with buildable coverage so you can customize it to your needs.

SPF protection:  Sun protection is essential for everyone, regardless of skin type.  Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

Hydration:  While oily skin might seem like it doesn’t need hydration, that’s not quite true.  Dehydrated skin can actually produce more oil to compensate. Choose a BB cream that contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to keep your skin balanced.

Ingredients:  For oily skin, it can be beneficial to look for BB creams with ingredients that target specific concerns like niacinamide to minimize pores and blemishes, or salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A BB CREAM?

ALL-IN-ONE CONVENIENCE

BB creams streamline your routine by combining multiple functions. They typically provide light to medium coverage to even out skin tone, often with built-in moisturizer and SPF protection. This saves time in the morning and reduces the number of products you need to apply.

HYDRATION AND NOURISHMENT

Many BB creams are formulated with hydrating ingredients to keep your skin plump and supple. Some may also contain additional skincare benefits like antioxidants to fight free radical damage or ingredients that target specific concerns like blemishes or redness.

NATURAL-LOOKING COVERAGE

Unlike heavy foundations, BB creams offer a more sheer, natural-looking veil of coverage. This is ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight feel or those with already good skin that just needs a little evening out.

SUN PROTECTION

Many BB creams include SPF protection, which is crucial for preventing sun damage and signs of premature aging. Look for a BB cream with SPF 30 or higher for daily use.

DO YOU NEED TO USE A PRIMER BEFORE BB CREAM?

You don’t necessarily need to use a primer especially primer before BB cream, but it depends on your goals and skin type. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Skip the primer if:

  • Your BB cream has built-in mattifying properties and your skin isn’t oily.
  • You prefer a lightweight, natural look and don’t need extra coverage or longevity.
  • You’re new to makeup or just starting with BB creams.

Consider a primer if:

  • Your skin is oily and you want to control shine throughout the day.
  • You have large pores or uneven texture you want to smooth out.
  • You need your BB cream to last longer, especially if you have combination or oily skin.
  • You’re using a BB cream for fuller coverage and want a flawless base.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO APPLY A BB CREAM?

Prep your skin: Cleanse and moisturize your face as usual. For oily skin, consider a mattifying moisturizer to further control shine. Let your moisturizer fully absorb before applying BB cream.

Less is more: Squeeze a dime-sized amount of BB cream onto the back of your hand or a makeup palette. This helps avoid using too much product, which can look cakey.

Dot and blend: Use your fingertips or a damp makeup sponge to apply the BB cream. Dab small dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently blend the dots outwards and upwards using tapping or stippling motions for a natural finish.

Build coverage:  If you need more coverage, apply another thin layer of BB cream, focusing on areas that need it most. Be careful not to overdo it, as BB creams are designed for a natural look.

Set it (optional):  For oily skin, you can set your BB cream with a translucent powder to control shine and extend wear time. Apply a light dusting of powder with a fluffy brush, focusing on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REMOVE A BB CREAM AT THE END OF THE DAY?

Even though BB creams are lighter than foundations, removing them properly is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Here’s the best way to remove BB cream at the end of the day:

  • Start with a gentle oil-based cleanser or makeup remover. BB creams often contain oils and silicones, and oil-based cleansers are more effective at dissolving them. Apply the cleanser to dry skin and massage gently in circular motions for about 30 seconds.
  • Emulsify and rinse. Add a little water to your face to create a milky emulsion, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
  • Double cleanse for stubborn makeup or sunscreen. If you wear heavy makeup or a BB cream with high SPF, you may want to double cleanse. Follow the oil cleanser with a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue.
  • Pat your face dry with a clean towel and follow up with your usual skincare routine. This includes moisturizer and any other nighttime skincare products you use.

CONCLUSION

Oily skin can be tricky to manage, but finding the right primer or BB cream can be a game-changer! With its blend of makeup and skincare benefits, a BB cream can even out your skin tone, provide hydration, and even shield you from the sun – all while keeping shine under control. This guide explored 12 of the best BB creams formulated specifically for oily skin, offering a range of options from high-end splurges to drugstore favorites. We even covered some key factors to consider when making your choice. So, ditch the shine and embrace the natural, flawless look of a BB cream perfectly suited for your oily skin!