It’s the start of the summer season, and it’s time to replace the usual leather bags or winter-ready materials with raffia or wicker options. And although today there is a countless array of proposals confirming that this type of fabric is among the favorites of the summer season, there is a design, specifically, that returns every summer as a symbol of a tradition that becomes more viral each year.
We are talking about the capazo, that basket-style bag made from materials such as esparto, palm, or wicker, and that is one of the season’s must-have style essentials. An accessory with a long history, a hallmark of the Mediterranean, that brands—both luxury and budget—have reinterpreted, turning it into that object that makes an outfit look much more sophisticated.
Where the Basket Bag Comes From
But where does this characteristic bag come from? Well, the history of the basket bag goes back to ancient Egypt, a period in which it was used to collect and transport food. Later, for centuries, it also served in construction or the countryside to haul sand, earth, stones, or trash. To ensure its strength, palm and esparto leaves were braided; in fact, the word capazo, derived from the Latin term capacium, means basket and refers to its original function as a wide and sturdy container to transport all kinds of objects.
The traditional basket bag.
Its link to fashion did not arrive until a little less than a century ago when tourists made of this accessory the best souvenir to take from the Mediterranean region. Over time, it became a true draw that ended up making this bag the best complement to vacation looks.
The chicest included these designs in those comfortable and summery outfits that blended wonderfully with the spirit of the Mediterranean coast. A trend that has endured to the present day, where this traditional accessory has been adopted by celebrities worldwide, approved by the top fashion authorities and reinterpreted by brands such as Loewe or Dior.
Loewe Anagram Basket Bag (950 euros).
The bag that inspired Hermès
The level of success of the capazo reached faces as iconic as the very Jane Birkin. Yes, the artist who gave a name to a Hermès bag turned the humble wicker cap bag into a fashion icon in the 1970s. Instead of the structured bags of that era, Birkin used a large round basket with a lid that she often bought at Provençal markets, especially in Saint-Tropez.
The well-known story of her incident with the wicker basket is famous. It happened in 1981, during a flight from Paris to London, when Jane tried to place her cap bag in the overhead compartment, and it fell, scattering all her belongings on the floor. By chance, her seatmate was Jean-Louis Dumas, then the creative director of Hermès, to whom she commented that there was no luxury bag that was both elegant, spacious, and practical for a working woman.
Jane Birkin with the wicker basket in 1980.
Then, Dumas designed in 1984 a spacious bag with a flap and strap closures that would meet the actress’s needs, naming it after her and in her honor after asking for her permission. And that is how a country-style item became one of the most acclaimed luxury accessories.
Today, every summer many people choose this bag, which you can find from a countless number of brands. In fact, there are options for all tastes, with sizes, designs and colors, and even budgets. In Zara’s new arrivals you can find a low-cost option, but if you want to invest in an artisanal model worth it, here are some of our favorites.
Mauska basket bag (545 euros).
Mauska, the brand that won Queen Letizia’s heart, has released its Cartagena baskets, which reflect an evolution of its summer basket with a more functional focus and attention to detail. They are crafted in iraca palm in Colombia and finished with leather worked in Ubrique, and each piece includes a large-format leather clutch, designed to be used independently as well.
Zahati bag (145 euros).
If you’re looking for a different and much more special option than the traditional design, head to Zahati, a brand with more than 100 years of history in the production of hats and artisanal accessories. We love this bag inspired by the shape of a hat, reinterpreting its broad enveloping silhouette into an original and very Zahati design. Handmade with braided natural fibers, it stands out for its light volume, its organic texture, and its sculptural character, perfect for giving any look a special touch.
The Sézane flower basket bag (240 euros).
Finally, Sézane, the French brand that has a dedicated section of basket bags with some of the most original designs. Among the bestsellers is this model with embroidered flowers that is a hit on social networks. It is made in its Madagascar workshop and has a double leather strap so you can wear it either on the shoulder or in the hand.
