There is something undeniably charming about a netted bag; its open-weave an invitation to look a little closer. Perhaps it’s a bouquet of pink and orange ranunculus peeking through the mesh, a striped towel tossed in after a swim, or a sourdough baguette you picked up at the market—little details that imbue romance into the everyday.
For spring and summer, few accessories are as a beloved—or as ubiquitous—as the netted bag. A close cousin to the raffia basket, it’s a handbag style that returns each year, reimagined anew. It has a humble beginnings, dating back to Normandy in 1860 where it was originally used by fishermen to haul fish. (Its origin story is closely associated with the France’s most prominent fish net manufacturer, Filt.)
Vogue’s Favorite Net Bags
What makes the netted bag most appealing is its versatility, whether you carry it in its simplest form as a canvas-colored tote for a weekend farmer’s market run followed by an afternoon stroll, or choose a brightly hued style one for the beach. Styling-wise, treat it as any other bag you own: Pair it with shirting and a silk lace skirt for work; capri pants and clogs for the weekend, or a bikini and pareo for vacation. (Pro tip: Hold smaller items in a colorful pouch to add a pop of color to those peeking holes.)
The original Filt bag remains a classic—these days it even comes in miniature sizes that seemingly hold little more than a trio of lemons—but on the runways, designers continue to revisit the netted style, each one more elaborate than the next. We saw many iterations this season, from Tory Burch’s handwoven chain-mesh totes to Erdem’s embellished style exploring the possibilities of craft to Michael Kors’s spirited leather take, accented with a long, swishy tassel at the handle.
Shop our favorite net bags for the season, below—with outfit ideas on how to style them out, too.
Texture on Texture
A mix of textures lends itself well to dressing for in-between weather. Bermuda shorts with a suede jacket and netted leather bag complement each nicely. Finish with a pendant necklace and minimalist leather loafers.
Boardroom Ready
Elevate the humble net bag with a blazer and silk lace slip skirt, plus white heels for an optic touch. Layer on your choice of light knit or simple T-shirt.
Saturday Chill
For an unfussy yet polished ensemble, try capri pants and a striped poplin button-down, rounded out with clogs and a leather beaded bag. Throw on a pair of shield sunglasses and a gold chain necklace for extra edge.
Brunch Hour
Whether you are heading out for a meal with friends or an afternoon matcha meet-up, the mini-dress-and-minimalist-sandal formula is always a winner. Sharp shades and a mini net shopper tie it all together.
Vacation Mindset: On
Channel a touch of beachside ease in the city by styling a pareo-inspired skirt with a poplin shirt. Add in a pair of metallic glove shoes, then complete with Tory Burch’s netted chainmail bag—a seasonal standout.
Summer Stripes
Sporty touches feel like a natural fit for weekend plans. Try it with a striped tank from Loewe, a pair of rinse-wash denim from Ossou, and Miu Miu boat shoes. Top off with Hereu’s netted bag (created in collaboration with Filt) for a playful finishing touch.
Woven Wonders
A netted bag styling story would not be complete without a beach look. Pair a crochet dress with a brightly colored swimsuit and a pair of flip flops. Use a roomy style to carry all your beach essentials: beach read, towel, and sunscreen.
