When you think about "French-girl style," what do you picture? Probably someone wearing a pair of expertly-tailored blue jeans, a classic white tee, and a basket bag. The style once popularized by Jane Birkin back in the 1960s and 1970s is having a resurgence for this season, making it one of summer 2023's biggest bag trends. Ahead, we at Marie Claire found the best basket bags on the market to shop this season, no matter your price point or personal style.
Also called "woven bags," basket-style bags can moonlight as the best beach bag or just as a great everyday bag—that is, if you're not someone who carries all of their life's belongings in their daily tote. Basket bags are slightly more delicate by nature of their design, but modern iterations come complete with life-proofing details like leather finishings or canvas fabric inserts that will make them last a little longer despite your daily wear-and-tear. Plus, they no longer exclusively come in the same few shades of brown or tan. You can now shop basket bags in colorways like black or bright white, and some even come with larger-than-life sparkly embellishments, colorful charms, and embroidery.
Keep reading to shop the best basket bags to channel some serious French-girl style energy for summer 2023. (And if you're on the hunt for for even more summer bag inspiration? Team Marie Claire has also rounded up the very best weekender bags for quick getaways.)
The perfect combination between a net bag and a basket bag, this pick from J.Crew comes in three colors and retails for only $70
Add a pop of sparkle to your summer bag collection via this bedazzled mini bag from Zara. This is the definition of the ideal summer date night bag.
Cute and small, this basket bag from Mango gets a punch of drama courtesy of the black detail across the side. If black isn't your thing, it also comes in a sunny yellow shade.
Every It-girl on my Instagram feed has been carrying this tote basket bag from Loewe. This smaller iteration retails for under $500, making a great in-between point between an affordable pick and a splurge.
This basket bag from FRAME is hand-woven by Italian artisans and features a 100 percent leather top to keep your valuables safe this summer.
This almost-white basket bag from SENSEI STUDIO also comes in a rich chocolate brown color, so feel free to take your pick.
Round bags are trending for summer 2023, so this basket bag from Anthropologie hits two trends at once.
This adorable Kate Spade top-handle basket bag comes in either this pink hue or a bright white shade, making it the perfect companion for all of your summer travels.
Looking to splurge on a designer bag this summer? This basket bag from Chloe has a timeless silhouette but features a cool twist courtesy of the logo'd strap.
For a slightly more subtle designer logo'd look, consider this basket bag from Tory Burch.
Coach can do no wrong when it comes to designing the perfect summer bag, and this basket-style one is hands-down one of my favorites for this summer.
This basket-inspired black bag from Ted Baker London has a nylon pouch on the inside to keep your belongings super safe throughout the day.
Canvas straps give this straw bag from Kayu a boost of longevity in your closet. The thicker straps mean that you can load it up with towels and all of your other beach day accessories without it breaking or getting uncomfortable.
Who says that basket bags need to only come in one color? This one from Cesta Collective features a whole host of rainbow hues for a fun pop.
This bag from Milaner plays on the basket style thanks to its square bucket silhouette. It also features a cotton drawstring pouch on the inside for extra protection.
This basket-inspired bag from & Other Stories is made out of leather instead of straw or rattan, making it a touch more durable than others on this list.
Ever wish your basket bag had more pockets? The team at Anya Hindmarch had you in mind when they designed this bag. Keep your valuables in the leather ones, and keep your makeup in the clear plastic pockets.
This mini basket clutch bag from btb Los Angeles features a bright orange acrylic handle for a modern, night-out-ready feel.
Oh, you wanted a literal basket bag to carry this summer? This Jane Birkin-inspired basket from Dragon Diffusion has you covered.
If you're worried about your basket bag loosing its shape over time, opt for this one from DeMellier London. The white braces keep its silhouette in check, no matter how much you use it.
Do you hate that feeling when a bag hits too close to your armpit? Same. This one from Madewell's collaboration with Tierra y Mano is great for you thanks to its extra-long strap.
The gradient effect on this basket bag from Mar Y Sol makes it more interesting to look at than a basic monochrome option. The woven raffia fabric gives it a lived-in, beachy feel.
How sweet are the bows on this pick from Loeffler Randall? It also features an equally-cute gingham lining on the inside so it'll be super easy to clean.
Yes, basket bags can also be backpacks! This one from French brand Sezane is a perfectly modern update to the style.
Turns out basket bags can be made of plastic. Case in point: this pick from Italian heritage brand Fiorucci. Lightweight and stylish, this one will pack a punch.
Available in two sizes, this basket bag from Connected Goods is made for days spent at the farmer's market. Can't you picture it with a bouquet of flowers sticking out of one side? The smaller retails for $42, while the bigger retails for $77.
Go ahead, buy the heart-shaped basket bag. It's a sweet play on the classic fabrication, and has more structure than other options on this list.
This tote bag from Jenna Bee is downright massive, so it will hold just about all of your summer essentials this year. Each one is one-of-a-kind, so you'll also own a special piece that's entirely yours.
Summer is a great time to play with color, especially when it comes to your accessories. This bag from Mansur Gavriel features a great pop of cherry red to prove it.
Kelly green is one of this season's most in-demand hues right alongside hot pink. Show off your love for the color with this bag from A New Day at Target.
White faux leather makes this mini white woven basket bag from Balenciaga feel special. It has a small internal zipper and a detachable shoulder strap for easy access.
How sweet is this mini basket bag from DOEN? It's inspired by style icons of the '60s, and is made from a classic raffia material.
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