It's Basket-Bag Season, and This Premium-Looking Style Is All I Can Think About

There are a few things that signify the arrival of summer. The evenings are lighter, the flowers are in full bloom and of course, wardrobes get switched up. As we welcome the warmer days with open arms, our accessories shift to adapt to the change in dressing that accompanies a new season, and with the ease that summer brings, basket bags are my first port of call. As somewhat of a handbag collector I've seen my fair share of bags, but the one that has my full attention right now is DeMellier's Santorini basket bag.

Woman wears cardigan, white t-shirt, striped trousers and sandals

(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

By now we're all well aware of DeMellier's prowess in the handbag sphere. From the iconic New York tote to the reliable Tokyo, the brand consistently designs elegant, timeless accessories that are set to last within our wardrobes. The refined aesthetic seen throughout the collections is continued to the Santorini. A classic handwoven style that becomes the ideal companion come spring, summer and even autumn, it has a smart, eye-catching and incredibly chic leather detail. Not only do the leather straps work to support the delicate hand-crafted raffia weave, but they add elevation too, with a smooth finish that makes the bag incredibly versatile for all occasions; it pairs just as well with a floaty dress on a far-flung island holiday as it does light linen tailoring for work.

DeMellier has considered that we all have different preferences when it comes to forever pieces. The Santorini is offered in an array of colours and three sizes—mini, regular and maxi—to suit the wearer to a tee. Below, see how fashion people are styling their Santorini bags, and explore the various options available.

1. THE MINI SANTORINI

Woman infront of sunset wears white dress and carries basket bag

(Image credit: @juliesfi)

Style Notes: The most compact iteration of the Santorini bag, the Mini perfectly balances a small silhouette with a surprising amount of room; there's enough space for the essentials like a water bottle, a book and some snacks. Choose from four colourways from classic neutrals to a vibrant green hue.

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2. THE SANTORINI

Woman standing wears black dress, white sandals, carries basket bag

(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

Style Notes: What's so brilliant about the design is that it is maintained throughout the sizes. The mid-sized Santorini features the same intricate handcrafted weave and smooth leather details in a regular silhouette for all occasions. Stock it with beachside essentials, picnic wares or office necessities as you please.

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3. THE MAXI SANTORINI

Woman on street wears black sweatshirt, blue shorts, black sandals, carries basket bag

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Style Notes: Overpackers, rejoice! DeMellier's Santorini comes in a maxi silhouette to stow away the essentials as well as those "I'll bring it just in case" items that we pre-planners always throw in at the last minute. The extra room is seamlessly integrated into the structure so the bag can still be worn on the arm, in the hand or over the shoulder.

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Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joinedBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.