Material Spotlight: Unravelling the Codes of Raffia
We all love an earthy accessory to sport under the sun. The cultural shift towards sustainability has been compelling brands to resort to contemporizing traditional craftsmanship. What we are now witnessing is a sophisticated edge to crafty weaves and knits. So, move over crochet and woven straw, the spotlight is shifting to another homespun hero.
Provençal flair meets nature’s favourite material- raffia is an artisanal approach to boho luxe, sported by jetsetters and beach bums alike. Designers across the globe are spotlighting this material in statement pieces and we’re here for it.
The vacation season’s It-material is changing the codes of all things bohemian. Before we introduce you to your new raffia wishlist, read on to know more about this warm weather staple.
What is it?
Raffia is a material made from raffia palm leaves and is woven and interlaced to create textiles. This hard-to-tame material features an unruly texture that is perfect to channel an almost imperfect appeal and craft pieces that look like they don’t take themselves seriously.
Where does it come from?
Belonging to the palm family, raffia originated from Madagascar. Raffia harvesting is generally considered a sustainable practice. The material is 100% biodegradable and recyclable.
Here are some of our favourite pieces to add a textural treat to your wardrobe:
Clothes
Postcard Crochet Mini Dress, Zimmermann
Rocking a little bit (or a lot) of raffia accentuates any look and makes for an outfit that shouts summertime, all the time. It can be loomed in so many different ways to add a tropical twist to any piece of clothing.
Bags
Panier Medium Shoulder Bag, Saint Laurent
Raffia arm candies are not just confined to covetable basket bags anymore. The unison of designers and craftsmen has made it possible to mould the material in silhouettes like totes, bucket bags, crossbodies and more. And the best part? It goes with everything!
Shoes
Cassandra Sandals, Saint Laurent
Intricately woven sandals and the iconic espadrilles can look like an exotic vacation is incoming! We recommend also wearing them around the city from brunch to running errands.
