The Simple Wardrobe Staple French Women Rely on to Look Chic in Summer

Basket-bag lovers unite—the rustic accessory is back for another summer. And this year, we're convinced the selection of woven totes and straw bucket bags is more fruitful than ever. 

There's the ultra-covetable Loewe and Celine iterations on one end of the spectrum (a girl can dream), but on the other, we've been pleasantly surprised by the array of premium-looking basket bags in stores like Mango, M&S and Arket. If your budget sits around the £100 mark, turn to Muuñ and Rixo for your raffia needs. Basically, there's an option out there for everyone, whether you're embarking on a Mediterranean excursion or day-tripping to your closest coastline.

And the best part is that the right basket bag will work with all your summer outfits, adding a distinctly French flourish. After all, Parisians are particularly fond of this chic accessory (Jane Birkin herself is a fan). Be it a simple jeans-and-tee combo or a floaty floral midi dress, sling a basket bag over your shoulder or lower arm and your ensemble will feel doubly stylish.

Scroll on to see how some of our favourite influencers are incorporating this staple into their warm-weather looks, then check out our round-up of the best basket bags you can pick up this season, whatever your budget.

Julie shows just how effortlessly this accessory slots into a simple weekend outfit.

Best basket bags: @emmanuellek_

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@emmanuellek_

Emmanuelle Koffi pairs her woven tote with another French girl favourite, a pair of mary janes.

Best basket bags: @frannfyne

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@frannfyne

Take your basket bag on holiday and team it with all your summer looks, just like Franny.

Best basket bags: @tamaramory

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@tamaramory

This classic bag style works with trending pieces too, such as Tamara Mory's vibrant shirt-and-shorts set.

The basket bag is a chic companion, whatever your plans.

The Best High-Street Basket Bags:

You can get your initial embroidered on this one for an extra £3.

I'd believe you if you told me this was designer—the braided texture really elevates it.

The Best Mid-Range Basket Bags:

Every time I spot this on Instagram I want it a little bit more.

Muuñ's basket bags are such a reasonable price for the quality.

I'd bring this with me to a wedding.

Tan leather and raffia are a match made in heaven. It's no wonder so many brands have opted for this classic combination.

If natural fibres aren't your thing, consider this striking striped version.

This is unlike any other basket bag I've seen.

The Best Designer Basket Bags:

This sculptural style instantly caught my eye.

Slot your beach towel, sunscreen and a good book into this beautiful bag, and you're ready for a day by the sea.

The thick black bands give this an edgier feel.

This could double as a chic carry-on for your next getaway.