Basket bags signal spring. Simply carrying one brings on a good mood – one augmented by images of women such as Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot in the south of France, a basket bag draped over a bronzed arm.
For summer 2022, the basket bag has been updated with unusual shapes, textures and colours. This is more about fun than an all-year-round investment, so buy a design that brings cheer to every outfit. Who could fail to smile at a bag with eyes, for example?
Because basket bags have that 1960s and 70s heritage, you can find some great ones on vintage sites, and also a reasonable number to rent. Holdall styles channel Birkin, while smaller, smarter designs shout “summer in the-city”. Just check the forecast for showers before you leave the house: it’s still April, after all.
Lauren Cochrane
Buy it
Striped tote, £87, by Vanessa Bruno from theoutnet.com
Eyes, £295, anyahindmarch.com
Round, £59, thewhitecompany.com
Rent it
Mini black, £28 for four days’ rental, by Sensi Studio from mywardrobehq.com
Rainbow, £79 a month, by Balenciaga from cocoon.club
Pompom, from £21, by Nannacay from hurrcollective.com
Thrift it
Beaded, £20, vinted.co.uk
Blue, £38, myvintage.uk
Heart, £60, from East Town Vintage at depop.com
