As far as I'm concerned, baskets are the original Birkin bag. And unlike the cult handbag, the raffia kind are affordable and ubiquitous. More to the point, no wardrobe is really complete without one.

Think about it. We all have an everyday leather bag, a carry-all tote, and an evening purse that packs a bunch. But when it comes to beach trips or breakfast escapades, we're stepping into basket bag territory.

Some prefer their baskets primed for the market, with a gaping mouth ready to be stuffed with flowers, leafy vegetables and herbs. While for others, it's the bucket shape that gets your engine going. Or perhaps you fall into the camp of those that wear the bucket label lightly, opting for net totes and woven shoulder bags that hint subtly at Jane Birkin's signature accessory.

Whatever your preference, the style and utility of the basket bag is undeniable, which is why we're bringing you a curated selection of the best baskets money can buy this season. With classic shapes from Patou and Jacquemus, and the generous styles from Loewe and Bottega Veneta on offer, there's something for everyone.

MUUÑ Sophie canvas-trimmed woven straw tote

ZIMMERMANN Goldentime medium embellished leather-trimmed raffia tote

SENSI STUDIO Large straw tote

DRAGON DIFFUSION Burgundy Nantucket Big Bag

MIMMI TERRA Woven Eco Tote Amarena

LA CERISE Sylvie Bag

LOEWE + Paula's Ibiza Punch Hole Small leather-trimmed raffia tote

MARNI Tropicalia small leather and embroidered faux raffia tote

CASA CATINELLA Mini Basket Bag

HELEN KAMINSKI Ampara Mini Tote

CAMILLA AND MARC Amir Tote

PALOROSA Handwoven Tote Basket 

Continuing the hunt for the perfect handbag? We're here to help. See our detailed guides to the best work bags (the kind you'll want to claim on tax), along with a roundup of crossbody bags you'll wear forever. And if the you're lost in an endless sea of handbags, here are the most popular designer bags of 2023 so far. Needless to say, Bottega Veneta's Andiamo bag will always come out on top.

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