As soon as summer hits, it's perfectly acceptable to breeze around town carrying a basket bag (even if a) you're not heading to the beach and b) you're not French). And while there are a lot of variations on the straw theme out there, not all are created equal. The Loewe basket bag is quite simply a cut above the other straw options. And now it's official. According to the latest Lyst Index, the global search platform's quarterly report that charts the world's hottest brands and products, Loewe has claimed the number one spot, topping Miu Miu, Prada and Saint Laurent, the three brands who occupy positions 2, 3 and 4.
As well as endorsements from the coolest A-listers - think Zendaya, Greta Lee and Ayo Edebiri - Loewe's success lies in the best cult basics (like its basket bag and logoed tank top), as well as hot collabs (such as its sneaker lovechild with On).
But let's go back to its basket bags, which are, quite simply, the definition of chic. You can immediately spot its hero style - whether you're holidaying in Comporta, or posing by the pool at Soho House - by its leather handles and calfskin patch. It's the sturdiest (not to mention the most stylish) plus one if you're heading to the beach (or a farmers' market for that matter).
And although the brand now makes every kind of basket bag imaginable - bucket bags with flirty ruffles; raffia totes complete with a whimsical elephant trunk (yes, really) - its signature basket bag made of palm leaf is the gold standard (and the ultimate carry-on if you're the kind of traveller who has 'turn left' aspirations).
Shop: The Loewe Basket Bag
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The stitched leather on this basket bag makes it the ultimate buy for beach season.
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The Loewe basket bag with tan leather handles and a logoed patch is the OG.
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This Loewe basket bag is perfect for pairing with all-white outfits on holiday.
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The powder blue version of the handcrafted basket bag is particularly alluring.
FYI, Loewe's basket bag might come into its own during summer, but it's an accessory that has year-round potential. Stylist Monikh Dale wears her basket bag from Dragon Diffusion, which is another cult designer bag brand that you'll start spotting everywhere during summer, with lo-fi outfits like checked shirts and chocolate slacks during the colder months, serving as an enduring reminder that winter won't last forever. Since it's summer as we speak, however, fill your basket bag with flip-flops, sun cream, a paperback and you're good to go.
Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s Senior Fashion News Editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).